Goal hero Eliezer Mayenda insists he “works hard to be better every game” following his man of the match performance for Sunderland against Sheffield United.

The striker shrugged off the disappointment of missing a free header from six yards against Stoke City to score and provide an assist as the Black Cats beat the Blades 2-1 at the Stadium of Light on New Year’s Day.

Speaking to safc.com, Mayenda reflected on a memorable night on Wearside. “This was a good game from me – better than the last two games – I have been working very hard last week to be better every game,” he said. “I’m very happy for the win.

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“Collectively, we played very well, and the team spirit was good – I’m very proud of the lads. Spirit is a big thing.”

On his goal he said: “I chose the right moment to press the defender. I was lucky because it was a mistake and I could go through and score. In my head I knew I had to score and I did so I’m happy.

“In this league every game is difficult, but we’re trying our best in every game. It’s a good mentality across the pitch.

“The most important thing is the win. Sometimes you can play badly and win the game, and sometimes you can play well and lose the game.

“We need to keep going, keep fighting and keep believing like we did here. And the fans were amazing. I want to thank them for their support. Especially at home, the atmosphere is special. And away [from home] the fans support very well. It was a big game and we need to thank all the fans.”

Sunderland play Portsmouth on Sunday and he commented: “Yes, we need to go again with the same thing next game. Team spirit and we need to fight again, not just in this game but every game, to believe in ourselves in every game. ”