Ulsan HD’s Japanese midfielder Ataru scored his first K League 1 goal.

Ataru scored the game-winning goal in the sixth minute of the second half to give Ulsan a 1-0 victory over Pohang Steelers in the first round of the Hana Bank K League 1 2024 at Munsu Soccer Stadium in Ulsan, South Korea.

Part luck, part skill. Ataru crossed with his right foot from the right side of the penalty area. However, the cross was headed on goal.

The ball left his foot and headed toward In-Ju-gyu, but he couldn’t reach it, and the ball went straight into the back of the net. Pohang goalkeeper Hwang In-jae was caught in reverse motion.

Ataru admitted after the game that it was a “cross,” which drew attention. “It was the opening game, it was a derby, and I’m glad the team came together and got a good result,” he said, adding, “I made a promised play with Lee In-gyu to do that, 토토사이트 and I’m happy it worked out.”

Ataru joined Ulsan last year, and in his first season, he scored three goals and provided three assists in 21 games. This season, he picked up momentum with his first goal.

“I’ve gotten more playing time since last summer, but before that it was a tough time,” Ataru said, “I’ll use the good and bad experiences I had last year. I was lucky to score a goal in the opening match, and I will try to contribute until the end.”