After replacing Matz Sels, Karl Darlow was polarizing in goal, sometimes lacking overall consistency.
Matz Sels was quickly demoted following his lapse against Aston Villa, that resulted in a draw. But his replacement, Karl Darlow, had a season defined by big moments, good and bad.
Most times in goal, you want a steady figure. Someone that match in, and match out, will be consistent. You want to know what to expect from your goalkeeper. Often times this season, that did not describe Karl Darlow. He seemed to find himself in match defining plays frequently, some ended in Newcastle United’s favor. Others did not.
Arguably the best match of the year for Darlow, came in a loss to his former club, Nottingham Forest. In the first half, both Jonjo Shelvey and Paul Dummett were sent off. In both instances, Forest was awarded a penalty. Darlow was able to make a diving stop on each. It was a huge confidence boost to the club, Toon Army, and Darlow, despite Forest winning in the end.
His two darkest moments were not far apart. On an attempted clearance against Norwich City, Darlow horribly struck the ball. His howler allowed an easy walk in goal for the Canaries, in a match that should’ve been a win, to a draw. You can watch it below if you want to relive the pain.
The second big error was against Bristol City a few weeks later. On a long aerial ball of the top, Darlow came way off his line to the outer most corner of the area. As Dummett tried to diving header the ball back to his keeper, Darlow was out of position, allowing the ball to get past him. David Cotterill got on the end of the mistake, giving Bristol a lead at the time. The match ended in another draw.
If you want one play that outlines the good, and bad, of Karl Darlow, look no further than his save against Rotherham United. Again, he comes way off his line, and when he slides to control the ball, he loses it. In a mad dash back towards the goal, he somehow manages to get back in front of goal, leaping over a sliding Newcastle defender, to make a dramatic stop. It was a play that could’ve easily been avoided all together, but also one that shows his flair for the last second save.
Rob Elliot has taken over the last couple matches, and it’s unknown who will be the first choice keeper to start next year in the EPL. But, Toon Army has gravitated to Darlow, in large part due to his big moment heroics. If he ends up being Rafa’s choice in goal, be ready for must see TV.