Cook says goal of the season is not over yet

Matt Ritchie scored a sublime goal against Sunderland a few weeks ago. It was hailed as one of the best ever goals to be scored at Dean Court and I don't doubt it. I am sure the goal has been re-watched probably more than any other AFC Bournemouth goal in the Premier League this season and yet there is a certain centre back who looks like he is all out to knock Matt off the top spot when it comes to spectacular goals.

I'm talking about our own Steve Cook. As a centre back it is always a privilege to get the opportunity to go forward and score the odd goal and I don't think any player in the Cherries team likes doing that more than Steve who made an audacious attempt to supersede Matt Ritchie's strike with one of his own against Watford last Saturday. Okay, I know the shot did not go in but when the ball broke to him from the free kick he met the ball with complete concentration and composure, thinking only of getting a strike on goal from a ball that was sat up at a difficult height and would need him to twist his body shape substantially to get a good connection. The overhead kick was beautifully demonstrated and to attempt such a shot from 20 yards out would be something special for any player, but for a centre back you have to say well done son!

Steve Cook just loves scoring special goals.

Sadly for AFCB fans, Gomes pulled off an equally top-draw save which meant that all Steve Cook got was a pat on his back from teammates for extracting such a great save from the Watford keeper. It tells me though that it is far too early to hand out the gongs for goal of the season contenders just yet. Cookie has already scored against Norwich with a strong header that looked simple but was actually guided in with some precision, and I have a sneaky feeling that we have not seen the best goal from Steve Cook yet.

Of course he hit a belter at Fulham last season and he also netted in some style with an overhead kick up at Ipswich two seasons ago. Special goals seem to be on his priority list and if he can get a few more this season don't be surprised if Steve Cook ends up rivalling Callum Wilson and Matt Ritchie for the goal of the season.

Look out for my next Shoot Blog article that looks at the Murray and King partnership that is likely to be out later today.