Chris Rigg reacts after first Premier League goal and praises Sunderland fans following dramatic Aston Villa defeat

Chris Rigg praised Sunderland’s travelling support and vowed the team will “bounce back stronger” after their dramatic 4-3 defeat to Aston Villa at Villa Park.

The 18-year-old scored his first Premier League goal during a chaotic encounter, curling home a superb effort in the first half to bring Sunderland level after an early setback. It was a landmark moment for the teenager, but one that ultimately came in defeat as Aston Villa struck late to claim all three points.

Reflecting on the game, Rigg admitted it was a difficult result to take given how close Sunderland came to getting something from the contest. “I think it was a tough game coming here, we knew that, and we prepped for that, and unfortunate not to come out with something at the end of the game.”

Despite the disappointment, Rigg spoke of his pride at reaching a personal milestone with his first goal in the top flight. “Yeah, I'm really proud to get my first Premier League goal, it's things you dream of, and I was just trying my best to help the team, and like I say, unfortunate not to pick up something.”

Sunderland had battled back impressively during the game and looked set to take at least a point late on, something Rigg acknowledged when reflecting on the mood in the dressing room. “We knew that we had the game there for us, even if it was a point or three points. Yet, it is a gutting feeling, but we'll bounce back stronger.”

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The midfielder also pointed to the character within the squad heading into the final stretch of the campaign, with five games remaining in the Premier League season. “There are five big games left to go, and we'll do everything for those fans to get something out of them.”

Rigg reserved special praise for Sunderland’s travelling supporters. “They really pushed us through the game, especially later in the game when we got our two goals, so all praise to them. Hopefully, we can show them something that we are able to get points against these big teams in these big stadiums.”

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