Jan
4
Nicky Maynard’s Wonder-Goal
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This is perhaps a little bit late and comes from the English Championship, but it would be a crime not to mention Nicky Maynard’s goal for Bristol City in their 2-1 away defeat to Queens Park Rangers last week. At only 23, the young English striker demonstrated skill to score a goal that could make even Dennis Bergkamp blush.
Maynard launches onto a seemingly poor ball into the penalty area that is neither here nor there, and makes two brilliant touches before sending into the back of the net. The first one if perhaps the best, as he manages to not only control it but also lift it over the defender. The second lets him turn with his back on goal and set up his shot. And his strike is a beautiful side-volley that curves into the goal, leaving the goalkeeper, the defenders, and the entire stadium stunned.
Perhaps it wasn’t much reported because it was a rather average Championship game, and the goal didn’t win Bristol any points. But it definitely would have been a late contender for goal of the season of 2009. Just imagine if someone scored that at the World Cup—people’s wouldn’t be able to stop talking about it for years.
It does go to remind you, however, that some good football is being played in Europe’s lower divisions. Even if the glamour is not there, every now and then we get gems like this one, which in my opinion deserve some better coverage.