• Premier League

Howard refuses to celebrate long-range goal

ESPNsoccernet staff
January 5, 2012
Tim Howard's clearance beats Adam Bogdan © Getty Images
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Everton's Tim Howard became the fourth goalkeeper in Premier League history to score when he netted a wind-assisted opener from inside his own penalty area in the 2-1 loss to Bolton on Wednesday.

Howard, though, refused to celebrate the remarkable goal, explaining later his reaction was as a sign of respect to Bolton shot-stopper Adam Bogdan. The match also marked the US international's 250th club game in England, but Howard revealed he could only think of his opposite number after the loss.

"I was delighted that we were in the lead and would hopefully go on to get three points, but it's not a nice feeling for a keeper. It's really awful actually," Howard told Sky Sports.

"For the back four and the goalkeepers at both ends, there was an awful wind swirling. You could see everybody was mistiming balls. Defenders were missing clearances that normally they would put up the field.

"I think the wind is the hardest condition to play in. Snow, rain, sun doesn't matter, but the wind really does play tricks on you.

"I let [Bogdan] know that I was feeling for him. It's not a nice place to be. I've been there before, a long, long time ago, and that was why I didn't celebrate."

The three previous goalkeepers to score Premier League goals are Peter Schmeichel, Paul Robinson and Howard's compatriot Brad Friedel.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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