Peter Schmeichel Scores at Old Trafford

Goalkeepers occasionally venture forward for a late corner, but the sight of one scoring remains wonderfully unexpected. In September 1995, Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel joined an attack in a UEFA Cup tie against Rotor Volgograd and headed home a goal at Old Trafford. The effort helped United draw 2–2 on the night, although they were eliminated on away goals. Schmeichel was renowned for saves, bravery and commanding his defence; this was a very different way of influencing the scoreline. The incident illustrates the gamble managers sometimes take when a match is slipping away. A goalkeeper charging into the opposition area creates chaos, excitement and one last chance of rescue, even if it cannot always change the final outcome.