Hartlepool United manager Craig Hignett praises Peter Kioso and his 'Premier League' worthy strike

The 20-year-old defender netted his first of the season in some style as Hartlepool United beat Torquay 2-1 to make it two wins on the bounce in the National League.

Manager Craig Hignett was understandably delighted with his side but rightly singled out Kioso for the crucial part he played in the victory.

And he admitted the ‘Premier League’ technique shown by the right-back to find the net wasn’t something that took him by surprise.

“I’ve seen Peter do that and try it but he’s not always that accurate with it – but I know he can belt a ball,” Hignett admitted.

“He made a great run and the energy he showed again was phenomenal and the finish was worthy of the Premier League.

“We were delighted to get our noses in front on the 80 minute mark because it gave us a bit of momentum to go on and finish the job which we did.

“People forget he’s only 19, 20, it’s frightening to look at really. You wouldn’t think he was that age with the maturity in his performances.

“He’s got a big future ahead of him Peter, there’s no doubt in that.

“Hopefully it will be with us and it’ll carry us where we want to go. But if it isn’t and he keeps working hard then you can see the quality he’s got.”

Before Kioso put in the winner, he had a few chances to find the net in the first half following Jason Kennedy’s opening goal as he got into several threatening positions in and around the Torquay box.

“Peter was unlucky, he had two shots blocked and had a good strike that hit the inside of the post but hasn’t gone in, Gime Toure put in the rebound but was offside” Hignett added.

“I’ve said to Peter, the more he gets up there and wants to score goals he’ll be a real threat and he’s been exactly that the last couple of games.”