As embarrassing a moment as it was, and it was one for the books indeed, Robert Green is not the only English goalkeeper to fumble at a crucial moment. As it is often joked about, the English goalkeepers are cursed when it comes to high pressure moments. Here are some examples from recent history
Robert Green, 2010 World Cup, England vs. U.S.A
What should have been a reflexive save any goalkeeper in their sleep could perform, Green was to slow to jump into action during England’s first game against the U.S. last Saturday when a slow rolling ball slid by his reach, tying up the game at 1-1. The unfortunate goal has seared into English fans hearts, tarnishing their first game and raising doubts about his ability in future games. This was not the first howler for Green either. According to Goal.com, out of 38 Premier League games played last season, Green was responsible for conceding 1.7 goals every game.
Coach Fabio Capello will not be starting Green in the match today against Algeria, instead vertern David James will be in net.
Paul Robinson, 2008 Euro Qualifiers, England vs. Croatia
With the score set at 1-0 for Croatia, Robinson received a no threat back pass from Gary Neville. Before he could reach it, the ball hit a rut and unexpectedly bounced up. Robinson’s reaction was quick but he misjudged the distance, and failed to connect with the ball completely. Croatia won 2-0.
Scott Carson, 2007 Euro Qualifier, England vs. Croatia
With eight minutes left in a critical game against Croatia, Carson, the debutant goalkeeper who in the last minutes replaced Robinson at the behest of Manager Steve McClaren, had the misfortune of the ball bouncing off his gloves. This resulted in the firing of Steve McClaren the following day, Carson’s one and only appearance in an international setting.
Scott Carson, 2007 Euro Qualifier, England vs. Croatia
With eight minutes left in a critical game against Croatia, Carson, the debutant goalkeeper who in the last minutes replaced Robinson at the behest of Manager Steve McClaren, had the misfortune of the ball bouncing off his gloves. This resulted in the firing of Steve McClaren the following day, Carson’s one and only appearance in an international setting.
Aiden Davison, 2005 FA Cup, Colchester United vs. Blackburn Rovers
Davison completely missed the ball in an attempt to kick it out to play, the ball sailed into the net
David James, 2004 World Cup Qualifier, England vs. Argentina
James gave up a two point lead when he miss calculated a routine save. The ball rolled under his body and James collapsed in anger.
David Seaman, Word Cup 2002, England vs. Brazil
What a misfortune! It was embarrassing to watch Seaman attempt to grab back the ball as it slid into the top corner. The ball deflected off Seaman’s foot after he received an unexpected, and poorly kicked, pass from Ronaldinho.
As fun as it is to look back at the facts validating this theory of cursed English goalkeepers, it’s unfair to say they are the only team with notorious howlers. Take for example
Pat Bonner, 1994 World Cup Ireland vs. Netherlands,
No one knew what was going on in Bonner’s head when he allowed Ireland to take the lead 2-1. His uncoordinated response was to blame.
Nevy Pumpido, 1990 World Cup Argentina vs. Cameroon
Pumpido was unable to make this seemingly routine save, costing Argentina the game to Cameroon 1-0. He fumbled the save and the ball trickled through his fingers and rolled into the net.
As for Robert Greens continuation in this Cup, as much as we are disappointed, we know he is not the first to make such a grave error under the international spotlight.
As much as we want to see Green bounce back from this calamity, Capello should consider starting a different goalkeeper for the next game.