Six Goalkeepers Who Defied Odds to Score in EPL History

The Premier League has a fascinating history of unexpected moments, and one such feat that stands out is when goalkeepers manage to score, a scenario so rare it makes news.

Since the Premier League was founded in 1992, only six goalkeepers have managed to score, with each goal earning a unique place in English football history. Their names are etched in the record books, leaving football fans to ponder how such exceptional feats were achieved.

The first goalkeeper to achieve this feat was Peter Schmeichel, who scored for Aston Villa against Everton in October 2001. Although his side lost 3-2, the Danish legend became the first goalkeeper to score in the competition. Schmeichel, a legendary goalkeeper known for his exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping abilities, had a distinguished career in the Premier League, playing for several top-tier clubs including Manchester United.

Three years later, Brad Friedel joined the exclusive list in February 2004 when he found the net for Blackburn Rovers against Charlton Athletic. However, his late goal came in a losing effort as Blackburn were beaten 3-2. Friedel's impressive goalkeeping career spanned 17 seasons in the Premier League, during which he played for several top clubs, including Liverpool and Aston Villa.

In 2007, Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Paul Robinson scored one of the most unusual goals in Premier League history. His long free-kick bounced over Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster and into the net, securing his place in the record books. The goal showcased Robinson's precision and power, which were instrumental in his impressive goalkeeping career.

Everton’s Tim Howard became the fourth goalkeeper to score in January 2012 when a powerful clearance, aided by strong winds, bounced over Bolton Wanderers goalkeeper Ádám Bogdán. Howard, however, refused to celebrate out of respect for his opposite number. Howard's exceptional goalkeeping skills earned him numerous accolades, including the Golden Glove award at the 2014 World Cup.

Asmir Begović added his name to the exclusive list in November 2013 after scoring for Stoke City just 13 seconds into a match against Southampton. His extraordinary long kick travelled the length of the pitch before bouncing over the opposing goalkeeper, making it one of the longest goals ever scored in professional football. Begović's impressive goalkeeping skills were on full display that day, showcasing his exceptional ability to launch long balls into the opponent's half.

The most recent goalkeeper to score is Liverpool’s Alisson Becker. In May 2021, the Brazilian headed home a dramatic stoppage-time winner against West Bromwich Albion from a corner kick, becoming the first goalkeeper in Premier League history to score with a header. The goal proved crucial in Liverpool’s successful push to qualify for the UEFA Champions League. Becker's incredible goal was a testament to his athleticism and composure under pressure.

The Premier League continues to produce exceptional moments, and the achievements of these six goalkeepers are a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of the sport. Their names will forever be etched in the record books, and their feats will continue to inspire future generations of goalkeepers and football fans alike.