Nigerian striker Jonathan Afolabi bagged a brace for Southampton in their 4-0 rout of Reading in the opening round of the Premier League 2 Division Two on Monday night at St Mary's Stadium.

The Republic of Ireland youth-teamer made it 2-0 in the 25th minute, before Nigerian defender Gabriel Osho, who skippered the Royals U23s, netted an own goal to increase the lead for the Saints.

On the hour mark, Afolabi wrapped up the scoring when he slammed home from another delivery by Tyreke Johnson.

“We are all buzzing after that result,” Afolabi told Southampton's official website.

“It was a great performance from everyone. We put in a shift right from the beginning tonight and got the reward for it.

“Personally, I was really pleased to also get two goals. It was a good way to boost my confidence and start the season.”

The 17-year-old Afolabi was on the books of St. Josephs Boys before he penned a scholarship deal with Southampton in July 2016.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : southamptonfc.com