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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Aaron Flanagan

Goalkeeper takes penalty but blazes shot over the bar - and smashes stadium lights

A non-league goalkeeper smashed the stadium's lights as he blazed a penalty over the bar.

Nuneaton stopper Tony Breeden was tasked with putting his side in the lead with the scoreline goalless during Saturday afternoon's clash with Stratford Town.

It was a surprise choice of penalty taker - and it looks even more baffling after the end result.

Veteran goalkeeper Breeden, well known on the non-league circuit in the Midlands, fired his spot kick over the crossbar and into the stand full of Nuneaton's home supporters.

But his shot was so powerful, it smashed one of the terracing lights.

The light dangles down from the stand following the penalty (Twitter)

A long light fell from the roof and was lucky to avoid young fans who watched from behind the goal.

It then dangled ominously as the game continued, with a steward guarding the damage until full-time.

Thankfully for Breeden, his penalty miss was not costly, as Nuneaton ran out 2-0 winners, taking the lead four minutes after his fateful penalty.

But he was not recalled for a second attempt later in the game as his side were awarded another penalty - with his own fans reportedly calling for him to stay back in his own goal.

Breeden joined Nuneaton earlier this season from National League North side Leamington, from whom he was sacked.

The 31-year-old had his time at Leamington ended before after a pre-season altercation with team-mate Jack Edwards, who was left with a broken nose and was unable to play in the following game.

“Officially left Leamington, not how I wanted to but down to my poor actions," Breeden posted on social media at the time.

“Good luck in the future and sorry to fans, staff and players who I’ve (let) down.

“I know you all held me in high regard & the support I received literally weekly from you all made me feel so proud to represent your club. Good luck.”

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