The 'GOALIE'

THE ‘GOALIE’

In the changing room, there is merriment and clapping.
But you remain focussed as you adjust your finger strapping.
Your eyes fixed and waiting for the match to begin.
Today’s make or break. You know you have to win.
The squad are all smiling and confidence is high.
But you know the dangers awaiting you outside.
The coin is flipped. The war has begun.
“Keep the shape! Hold them up! Come on everyone!”
Tackles go in fast. They are crunching and hard.
The referee brandishes another yellow card.
This clash of the titans will be a feud to the end.
Your ‘Last man standing’, on which this game may depend.
Every match is a challenge and a personal duel.
At times, and in an instant, this game can be cruel.
Be positive, keep your wits, be the best that you can.
You’re a goalie for a reason. You are the main man!
Keep talking to yourself, it can be lonely on your own.
Don’t give your teammates a reason to moan.
A clean sheet, is the only order of the day.
Do all that you can, to keep the enemy at bay.
You scream encouragement to all your teammates and friends.
And a broad smile appears, you just scored at the other end.
1-0 is dangerous, things could easily change.
Only takes one shot if it’s within range.
A Free-Kick is taken. It swerves around the wall.
You do well to reach it and parry the ball.
Your teammates applaud you and pat on your back.
But you need to stay focussed for another attack.
The waves are relentless, you scream at your defence.
Sprawling bodies everywhere, the anxiety intense.
Leaping like a frog, you fingertip onto the bar.
That save you just made was the best one by far.
A one goal lead is never enough.
This side is special and incredibly tough.
They won’t go down easy. They are relentless and brave.
You are having to make save after save.
The lone striker cuts inside and gains a yard or so.
But your defence holds firm, they go toe to toe.
You’re in set position with hands at the ready.
Your rigid torso keeping your whole body steady.
Your instincts are anticipating a shot or a run.
Then their striker pulls the trigger, like a loaded gun.
He strikes low and hard but you have it all covered.
You catch the ball and drop. Now it is smothered.
Another attack looms. You jump into the fray.
You’re doing all you can. You’re busier today.
Flicks, tricks and lots of Free-Kicks.
As you observe the play from between the sticks.
A corner is taken. You need to judge the flight.
Do you punch it or grab it. Either is right.
You claim the ball and clasp it tight to your chest.
Waste a few more seconds to give your teammates a rest.
Time is ticking the end is drawing near.
Another loose ball, this time you kick it well clear.
There’s not that long to go now. The minutes last forever.
Time wasting isn’t exciting but your team are being clever.
The referee checks his watch and holds the whistle to his lips.
A defenders caught dawdling. Gives chase but he slips.
Oh! No. He’s clear. You need to close down the angle.
You both come together, your legs all entangled.
The referee blows for a foul once again.
But it’s not your fault. You weren’t to blame.
A Penalty is given! What? A flipping disgrace.
“It was a 50:50 ball ref and I won the race.”
It’s all up to you now. Just you two, one on one.
Your clean sheet in danger. Could be 1-1?
You talk to yourself to anticipate the shot.
Not faced him before. What has he got?
Will he try a ‘Panenka’ or just blast it at you?
Watch his feet, they might give you a clue.
The penalty taker places his shot to your right.
You guess correctly and use all of your height.
Saved! Yes you did it! Hero again.
The crowd go wild and chant out your name.
One last shot could still spoil the day.
You remain ready and focussed. You must win today.
Ninety minutes are up the whistle has finally gone.
Your teammates all hug you. You’re their number one!
Teams shake hands and cuddle, your enemies no more.
Just two teams in battle without the blood and the gore.
You walk back to the changing room and plonk down on the seat.
Today’s been a great day. But now your ‘deadbeat’.
You sing songs with your mates, celebrating your win.
‘Safe Hands’ they say. Well done son. ..‘Get in!’

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