Former Burnley striker relishing physical side of Scottish game as he bags first Hamilton Accies goal

Joel Mumbongo bagged his first Hamilton Accies goal on his first start to help sink East Kilbride - and says he is relishing the physical side of the game in Scotland.

The Swedish striker fired home the opener in a 5-2 triumph to send holders Hamilton into the quarter-finals of the SPFL Trust Trophy.

Former Burnley man Mumbongo joined the club from Tranmere Rovers just a few weeks ago on a one-year deal, with an option for a further year, and he is thrilled to be up and running early on.

The 24-year-old failed to score in 20 outings for Rovers last term, but he is off the mark at Accies and says he is enjoying the physical side of the game in Scotland.

Mumbongo, who was booked after a fiery clash with EK's Chris McGowan in the second half, said: "It felt good to get the goal. I've been waiting for that and hopefully I can keep moving forward.

"As a striker, it is always a weight off your shoulders to get that first goal but the important thing is doing my bit for the team.

"When you put in the work and you make the right runs, the goals will come.

"I am enjoying it here. It is a good squad and a good one to come into.

"You've got to adapt and put in the work, learn the system and the way we play, but we've got a good manager, a good squad and good staff so it has been really easy for me to come in.

"It is physical here, which is similar to England, but I am a physical player so that's fine.

"I think it fits me well. I enjoy that side of the game.

"I play with fire - I think you have to - and I'm not complaining.

"When you give it out, you need to accept that people are going to come for you, but that's fine."

Mumbongo was teed up for his goal by former Burnely team-mate Joe McGlynn, which saw his strike partner return a