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Karl Darlow’s save against Rotherham perfectly illustrated his goalkeeping

By Carson A Merk

BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - JANUARY 14: Newcastle United's Goalkeeper Karl Darlow (26) jumps in the air to save the ball during the Championship Match between Brentford and Newcastle United at Griffin Park on January 14, 2017 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)
BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - JANUARY 14: Newcastle United's Goalkeeper Karl Darlow (26) jumps in the air to save the ball during the Championship Match between Brentford and Newcastle United at Griffin Park on January 14, 2017 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images) /
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Karl Darlow makes the occasional bonehead mistake, but usually backs it up with spectacular goalkeeping. Just like the save he made this past weekend against Rotherham United.

One play sometimes defines an athlete’s career, for good or bad. David Tyree catching the ball on his helmet in the Super Bowl, Craig Ehlo trying to contest Michael Jordan’s game winning jumpshot, and many more. Most times, it’s an unfair generalization of that player. Karl Darlow’s save on Saturday against Rotherham United will by no means define his career, but it was a perfect analogy for his time in goal for Newcastle United.

As you can see on the video above, it was described as “an amazing save” in the scoreless first half against last place Rotherham. That is correct, the diving stop he made was crucial to the match, and a great individual play. However, the reason he needed to make that heroic run back in front of goal, was due to a silly mistake of sliding past the ball on the edge of the box.

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It is a great analogy for the type of goalkeeper the former Nottingham Forest man is. He consistently makes incredible saves, allowing only 14 goals in 20 league appearances. However, he is sometimes prone to that one moment per match that leaves you scratching your head. It does not always result in goals, but it happens, and it may be more of an issue next year should Newcastle gain promotion. He’s still on the younger side at 26, and has remained the first choice keeper ahead of Matz Sels and Rob Elliot. If he can eliminate those glaring mishaps, he can develop into a big asset for Newcastle United in goal.