Carroll thanks Reds for support

Merseyside derby goal hero Andy Carroll dedicated his Goodison Park strike to everyone who has stood by him during his short time at Liverpool. The £35million striker scored the crucial opening goal against city rivals Everton on Saturday, his first in the Premier League since April.The former Newcastle forward has only scored four times in total in all competitions since his big money move in JanuaryHowever, he hopes his derby strike can kick-start his season and wanted to thank those who have backed him over the past few months."The goal is for everyone really, Kenny, the others lads and the fans. Everyone who has stood by me," the 22-year-old told the Liverpool Daily Post."It is a great feeling but it doesn't really matter who scores the goals as long we get the three points and I thought it was great we did it here."The dressing room was just buzzing afterwards. Everyone was over the moon. This is by far the highlight of my time here, easily."Scoring against Everton and beating them at their place is special but you have got to keep it going."We've got Man United next game and I've got to make sure that I keep doing well week in and week out now."Reds winger Stewart Downing is also confident that Carroll will now start hitting the back of the net on a regular basis."Andy's off the mark now. Without scoring, he's been doing well for us and he deserved it for his all-around play," said the former Middlesbrough and Aston Villa winger."That goal is a real bonus and for it to happen in the derby is extra special for him."Andy is a quality striker and I'm sure he'll build on this."It was such an important goal as this was a big win for us."

Source: Team_Talk