A Proud Tradition

[JRC]

The clapping of opposing Goalkeepers is a proud tradition, and is rooted in a historical appreciation of excellent goalkeeping displays, whomsoever they may be by - even though it has in the past brought the best out in some keepers, to our detriment. That appreciation and affection for a good keeper apparently goes back to the days of Elisha Scott and when our Telex address was 'Goalkeeper'.

 

So let us now add another name to a pantheon of excellence that includes the adored Banks and the peerless Jennings, and even the likes of Southall, Martyn and Schmeichel - immense respect to Iker Casillas for last night, a fantastic display that deserved better from those in front of him. Showed due respect to The Kop as well. I love Pepe, but there is no shame in being number 2 to possibly the best in the world.

[Billy Dane]

First thing I taught my son when I took him to Anfield, you ALWAYS applaud the opposition keeper when he plays in front of the kop. Those on the Kop that don't do this (and those who don't sing YNWA) should be thrown out.

 

Casillas had a great game. Used to enjoy watching Jennings and Banks playing at Anfield, two great keepers.

[Flight]

I was thinking the same as the OP before I read this thread. Casillas really seemed to be touched by it.

[JRC]

First thing I taught my son when I took him to Anfield, you ALWAYS applaud the opposition keeper when he plays in front of the kop. Those on the Kop that don't do this (and those who don't sing YNWA) should be thrown out.

 

Casillas had a great game. Used to enjoy watching Jennings and Banks playing at Anfield, two great keepers.

Me too with my son, as my Dad taught me. It's an article of faith for all Reds fans as far as I am concerned, not negotiable, not to be delivered without conviction.

 

Banks and Jennings almost used to get cheered on as they approached The Kop - the latter even more so after he once saved 2 penalties in front of us in one game, costing us a point.

[muleskinner]

I still think Reina is better than Casillas, even after that display.

[CarraLegend]

I still think Reina is better than Casillas, even after that display.

 

Someone on TLW summed it up best I thought, Casillas is suited perfectly to the way they play and Reina to the way we play so neither clubs/fans would swap.

[Barnesy_10]

not a patch on Itandje

[Chili Palmer]

Someone on TLW summed it up best I thought, Casillas is suited perfectly to the way they play and Reina to the way we play so neither clubs/fans would swap.

 

 

agree with that.

[Bootle Buck]

They remind me of the old Clemence/Shilton rivalry. The two of them are top class and happen to be playing at the same time. Otherwise Reina would have 50 caps by now.

[Des]

I can't believe Casillas is only 27. He's got a good ten years ahead of him still. Unlucky for Pepe.

[Leo No.8]

I can't believe Casillas is only 27. He's got a good ten years ahead of him still. Unlucky for Pepe.

 

Think he's getting on for 100 caps already Casillas, at 27 years old. Whats the record number of international caps? Reckon barring injury he could get near 200.

 

Great keeper, great professional. Thoroughly deserved his ovation from The Kop.

[Swipe]

They're the two best in the world.

 

I'd still prefer the Pepster though.

 

Casillas was excellent last night. Kept the score from reaching double figures!

[Maldini]

I prefer Pepe, he organises the back 4 better, controls his box better and is the best keeper ever at distributing the ball. Pepe sets up 3 or 4 goals a year for us.

[Snakebite]

Think he's getting on for 100 caps already Casillas, at 27 years old. Whats the record number of international caps? Reckon barring injury he could get near 200.

 

Great keeper, great professional. Thoroughly deserved his ovation from The Kop.

It's 181 for that Saudi goalkeeper that the Mancs tried to sign during the Barthez days.

[CaptainXabi]

I prefer Pepe, he organises the back 4 better, controls his box better and is the best keeper ever at distributing the ball. Pepe sets up 3 or 4 goals a year for us.

I have to agree with that. In terms of shot stopping no one can touch Cassillas, and of course he is a top,top, top class keeper. But he does not control his box well or give his defenders strong guidance, imo. Pepe (the Portuguese one) and Cannavaro are not incompetent players and they were completely lost.

[Buzz]

My oldest sons first game at Anfield, against 'Boro, stood in the Kop with Kahnee and JP. They switched us and Crossley came to the Kop to very loud applause and Crossley clapping back got him even more of a welcome. We gave him a standing ovation when he was carried off after Gary Mac stuck a boot in his face too! My son has since been to other grounds with schools and that and says he has never seen them do that to the oppositions keepers and its part of what makes him proud to be a Red!!

Oh and for the record, I'd have Pepe because of his distribution and Casillas looks like Gareth Barry.

Edited March 11, 2009 by Buzz

[Kvarme Ate My Food]

Katya's first game was the same. Schmeichel was approaching the Kop, and someone called him a Manc c*** under their breath. The little one overheard, and loudly berated him - "our traditions our more important than getting one over on a no-mark like him", she said, to loud applause from the rest of 205.

 

Out of the mouths of babes...