Sports Experts Recount Memorable Live Goals

Following Diego Gomez’s spectacular halfway-line goal for Brighton against Crystal Palace, football journalists have revisited some of the most memorable goals they have witnessed live.

Matt Barlow recalled Zlatan Ibrahimović’s audacious overhead kick from approximately 35 yards for Sweden against England in 2012. The strike, which sealed a 4-2 victory and was Ibrahimović’s fourth goal of the match, epitomized his individual brilliance on a night when he also scored four goals against English opposition.

Jack Gaughan highlighted Phil Clarkson’s unusual back-heel volley for Blackpool against Northampton in 1998. From six yards out with his back to goal and a defender close by, Clarkson controlled a knockdown with his right instep, flicked it over to his left foot, and volleyed the ball into the corner with force. Gaughan described it as a moment of genius far removed from its lower-league surroundings.

Jamie Vardy’s over-the-shoulder volley against West Brom in 2018 was selected by James Sharpe. The goal, assisted by a floating pass from Riyad Mahrez, saw Vardy strike the ball first-time with his weaker left foot into the bottom corner, a strike that was named Carling goal of the month and Leicester’s goal of the season.

Paul Mullin’s late strike for Wrexham against Stockport in 2022 was praised by Ian Herbert and Nathan Salt. Mullin received a ball from his own half and, just outside the area with a defender approaching and the goalkeeper advancing, looped a shot over him into the net. The goal was noted for its technical execution and its significance in Wrexham’s journey back to the Football League.

Lewis Steele reminisced about Nick Powell’s goal for Crewe Alexandra against Cheltenham in the 2012 League Two play-off final. Steele considers the technique outstanding and believes Powell might have had a more significant career at Manchester United had Sir Alex Ferguson remained as manager.

Will Pickworth recounted Dean Campbell’s 90th-minute winner for Stevenage against Aston Villa in the FA Cup in January 2023. The goal, scored by a loanee with a modest goalscoring record, became a cherished memory for Stevenage fans for its dramatic timing and the upset it represented against a Premier League side.