Interviews

Steele: Newport drama shows the life of a goalkeeper

Albion stopper on Sunday's rollercoaster in south Wales.

By Alex Stedman • 12 January 2021

By Paul Hazlewood
Jason Steele saved four penalties in the shoot-out at Rodney Parade.

Jason Steele says the Emirates FA Cup penalty shoot-out win over Newport County is the perfect example of the highs and lows that come with playing in goal.

The keeper saved four penalties in a remarkable display on Sunday evening, atoning for an error in normal time that had forced an extra 30 minutes as Albion won 4-3 in the shoot-out.

The 30-year-old has since signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until June 2023.

He said, “That game sums up the life of a goalkeeper - I've never saved four before in a shootout, I couldn't tell you what my previous best was.

05:35

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FAC: Albion beat Newport on penalties

“I'm proud I dug in and showed mental resilience because you're going to have ups and downs but it's how you respond.

“I was almost a villain, but I'd like to think I turned it around. You have to commit to your dive and just hope you can get near it.

“[Goalkeeping coach] Ben Roberts deserves a lot of credit because he does a lot of the research and told me what way all of their takers were going.”

Albion face trips to Manchester City and Leeds this week in the Premier League and Steele believes the third round win can be the catalyst for more positive results.

“The win will give the group a boost because we have a big week coming up.

“There's no better feeling than winning a game and that can only help us going forward.”

01:54

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Steele relieved to make amends!