Ethiopian midfielder Gatoch Panom scored in Round 21 of the Iraq Stars League as Newroz thumped Diyala 4-1. Panom, 30, is continuing his great start to life in Iraq's top flight.
Panom opened the scoring in the 17th minute when he deflected a free kick towards the Diyala goal where the goalkeeper inexplicably allowed the ball to roll through his legs. The stroke of fortune led to further Newroz goals from Ahmed Mahoud and Marwan Hussein to seal the win. Newroz are unbeaten in eight league games since Panom joined them in January.
It is Panom's second goal of the season for Newroz as they have moved clear of the relegation zone to sit 10th with 30 points. Their massive win helped Newroz to be 12 points adrift of log leaders Zakho.
Panom is now in pole position to retain his place with the Ethiopian national side. He has been overlooked by the Waliyas since Mesay Teferi took over the head coach position of the national team.
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