What are the fastest goals ever scored in the Premier League?

From Shane Long's lightning-fast strike to Philip Billing's quick opener, the Premier League has witnessed some of the fastest goals in football history. Join us as we delve into these remarkable moments that have left fans and players alike in awe.

Shane Long's Record-Breaking Goal

Southampton vs. Watford (2018–2019 Season)

On April 23, 2019, during a match between Southampton and Watford, Shane Long etched his name into Premier League history by scoring the fastest goal ever recorded in the competition. Just 7.69 seconds after kickoff, Long intercepted a pass from Watford defender Craig Cathcart and cleverly chipped the ball over goalkeeper Ben Foster, giving Southampton an early lead. This remarkable feat surpassed the previous record held by Ledley King.

Philip Billing's Rapid Strike

Arsenal vs. Bournemouth (2022–2023 Season)

Philip Billing of Bournemouth stunned the Emirates Stadium on March 4, 2023, by scoring against Arsenal just 9.11 seconds into the match. This goal became the second-fastest in Premier League history, showcasing Billing's alertness and Bournemouth's tactical preparedness.

Ledley King's Early Opener

Bradford City vs. Tottenham Hotspur (2000–2001 Season)

Ledley King set a long-standing record on December 9, 2000, when he scored for Tottenham Hotspur against Bradford City just 9.82 seconds after the match began. King's goal, a powerful shot from distance, remained the fastest in Premier League history for nearly two decades until Shane Long's 2019 strike.

Alan Shearer's Quick Finish

Newcastle United vs. Manchester City (2002–2003 Season)

Premier League legend Alan Shearer added to his illustrious career by netting a goal for Newcastle United against Manchester City just 10.52 seconds into the game on January 18, 2003. Shearer's goal remains one of the quickest in the league's history, reflecting his renowned goal-scoring prowess.

Christian Eriksen's Swift Goal

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Manchester United (2017–2018 Season)

Christian Eriksen wasted no time in putting Tottenham Hotspur ahead against Manchester United on January 31, 2018. Scoring just 10.54 seconds after kickoff, Eriksen's goal is among the fastest in Premier League history, demonstrating his quick thinking and technical skill.

Other Notable Fast Goals

• Mark Viduka: Scored for Leeds United against Charlton Athletic in 11.90 seconds during the 2000–2001 season.
• Dwight Yorke: Found the net for Aston Villa versus Coventry City in 12.16 seconds in the 1995–1996 season.
• Chris Sutton: Netted a goal for Blackburn Rovers against Everton in 12.94 seconds during the 1994–1995 season.
• Kevin Nolan: Scored for Bolton Wanderers against Blackburn Rovers in 13.48 seconds in the 2003–2004 season.
• James Beattie: Put Southampton ahead against Chelsea in 13.52 seconds during the 2004–2005 season.

These goals highlight the unpredictability and excitement of the Premier League, where moments of brilliance can occur right from the kickoff.

What you should know about the fastest goals in Premier League history

• Shane Long holds the record for the fastest goal, scoring in 7.69 seconds for Southampton against Watford in 2019.
• Philip Billing's 9.11-second goal for Bournemouth against Arsenal in 2023 is the second-fastest.
• Ledley King's 9.82-second strike for Tottenham Hotspur in 2000 stood as the record for nearly 19 years.
• Alan Shearer and Christian Eriksen also feature among the top five fastest goals, scoring in 10.52 and 10.54 seconds, respectively.
• These rapid goals often result from a combination of tactical planning, individual brilliance, and occasional defensive lapses.