Student goalkeeper shines in KNVB Cup as amateur Barendrecht stun NAC Breda

Further drama in the KNVB Beker’s First Round this week saw Tweede Divisie side BVV Barendrecht beat NAC Breda 2-1. Wouter Vermeer opened the scoring for the amateur hosts eight minutes in, before Lars Mol restored parity in the second half. However, the 50th-minute goal was a mere false hope, as the brave hosts notched a last-minute winner with Brent Vogts.

In an impressive turn, the underdogs won with their second goalkeeper, 24-year-old Jomar Gomes, between the sticks. He boasted of a fine performance that prevented certain goals from Elías Már Ómarsson, Dominik Janosek (twice) and Leo Sauer. Speaking of seizing his cup opportunity, Gomes told Voetbal International:

“When that chance comes, you have to be there. (…) I had a few good saves, yes. I am also super proud of the boys. If we are in a good position, we can make it difficult for big teams.”

While the party lasted until late into the night for the rest of the squad, Gomes admittedly had to watch his step a little. He continued:

“Well, I’m going to stay up late. Not going out or anything, just quietly, with friends. Maybe paddle with teammates tomorrow. And I have to do some schoolwork. I’m a second-year social work student, I have a test on Monday.”

As VI rightly concluded, that night under the lights against Breda saw Gomes pass a test, albeit one that won’t earn him school credits.

GBeNeFN | Max Bradfield