Nigerian striker Josh Maja hopes to maintain his scoring run after putting an end to a goal drought that lasted nine months.

Maja was back on the scoresheet on Wednesday night, as he netted to help West Bromwich Albion secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Norwich City in a Championship match at Carrow Road.

The Baggies’ number nine hit the back of the net midway through the first half, firing a composed, first-time finish into the bottom corner after a well-worked move.

Prior to Wednesday, the Super Eagles striker last celebrated scoring a goal nine months ago, on 1 January 2025, when he netted a brace in West Brom’s 3-1 win over Preston North End.

He, however, sustained a calf injury, which sidelined him for the remainder of the 2024/25 season.

Maja is now optimistic that his goal against Norwich will spark a scoring run for him, saying after the game that “it’s a blessing” to be back doing what he loves best.

“It was amazing to be in the starting XI after a while. I was really looking forward to the opportunity to play, and I thank the gaffer for giving me the chance,” Maja told the club media.

“I enjoyed myself. Scoring the winner was a brilliant feeling, but earning the win was the most important thing tonight. Hopefully, we can push on from here.

“Scoring goals is one of my strengths, and I hope to carry on scoring goals and being part of a winning team. I want this to be the start of a spell for me where I score as many goals as possible, which is what any forward wants.

“It’s difficult to describe the feeling of scoring in detail, but it was definitely a rush. I had that feeling a few times last season, and it’s great to get off the mark this season. It’s a blessing.”

Speaking further, Maja admitted that the journey back from a long-term injury to match sharpness has been challenging but praised the club’s staff for their support.

“It had been about getting as fit as possible, training well, and being ready when called upon. The staff have done an amazing job in helping me reach that level of readiness, and I’m grateful to them,” he said, adding that the timing of his return and the decisive goal could not have been better.

“I think tonight was the perfect time for me to come in, score, and help the team secure the victory,” Maja said.
“The win was a massive confidence boost for us because the league is not easy, and winning away matches is always difficult.

“We had to suffer through some challenging moments, but we came away with three points, which shows the character in the team.”