Europe can be our playground says Ross County midfielder Joseph Hungbo
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ROSS County’s Pittodrie hero Joseph Hungbo is determined to help drive the club into Europe for the first time in its history.
The on-loan Watford winger sprang from the bench with eight minutes left against Aberdeen, with the 0-0 draw set to consign both clubs to the bottom half of the table.
After flicking a cross against Jonny Hayes’ arm, the Englishman kept his cool from the penalty spot to propel his temporary team into the elite half of the table and Europa League contention.
“It was just eight minutes and I didn’t see it going like that!” Hungbo admitted. “Sometimes things just happen, the stars align. I’m delighted. It means so much to the fans, the club, all the players who have worked tirelessly throughout the season.
“We’ve gone through hard times and good times and we now have our rewards for the hard work.
“The sky’s the limit. There’s no reason why we can’t challenge for Europe. We have achieved so much so lets take it all the way to the finish line.”
Hungbo emphasised the importance of the manager’s appraoch and guidance, but reserved special praise for the fans who celebrated wildly with the players at full-time.
“That was amazing with the fans. They deserve this more than anyone,” the Lambeth-born 22-year-old said. “They travel to all the games and it may not be the biggest in numbers, but they are the best in terms of their passion and enthusiasm for all of us. We owe it to them. I’m so happy that they’re happy.”
Asked how important Mackay’s influence had been, Hungbo stressed: “The manager has been phenomenal. He has understood the process and believed in it. There’s been times when we haven’t, but we just needed to see it from his perspective.
“We have taken it on board. He has shown us the way and we have ended up in the top six, so huge credit to him. He has helped me adapt to the situation too.
“It’s been an education, an experience I will never forget. Coming up here and living by myself it makes you grow into a man. A lot of people helped me. It’s been fantastic for my development.”
