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Keeper

Andy Lockett

Tuesday, January 17th, 2006

1 Leave a comment on verse 1 0 Gloved guardian of the goal,
Individual in a team game.
Ready to defy opponents with
Agility, strength and guts –
A solo vigil, prowling the line
From post to post.

2 Leave a comment on verse 2 0 The net and frame his territory
To defend – against all comers.
Shots held, headers deflected;
Bravery personified, he defies the
Ninety minute onslaught –
King of his area, his home.

3 Leave a comment on verse 3 0 Spot kick given – the High Noon duel;
Whistle blows – which way to go ?
Instinctive reaction and it’s saved,
Rebound whacked over the bar –
Team mates jubilant, the
Keeper phlegmatic – just a job to do.

4 Leave a comment on verse 4 0 Memories of vintage displays –
Foulkes, Hardy, Hibbs, Swift;
Williams the Cat – English heroes
In yellow ‘gainst the world,
Then Banksie – goalie supreme;
Pele,1970 – the save of all saves…

5 Leave a comment on verse 5 0 Times past, times present – always
A figure apart; alone, but ever-alert
To the lethal through-ball –
Slides out to smother, danger subdued.
Last gasp tip-over keeps it safe;
Goal intact – mission accomplished.

© Andy Lockett 2006

Notes

RIP John Thomson – saved a goal, gave his life.

Source: http://footballpoets.org/poems/keeper/