In the self-proclaimed “best league in the world”, goalkeepers go somewhat against the narrative – attempting to prevent the goals that fans so desperately crave.
But in the case of Tom Heaton against Southampton, spectators were perfectly happy to see the Burnley stopper produce one of the saves of the season.
5 - What a save from Tom Heaton, denying Charlie Austin with a sensational one-handed save down to his left. 0-0 #ClaretsLIVE
— Burnley FC (@BurnleyOfficial) October 16, 2016
Even Southampton’s social media team were impressed, although we’re fairly certain Charlie Austin wasn’t in such a charitable mood.
📸
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) October 16, 2016
We couldn't quite believe it either, @chazaustin10! #saintsfc pic.twitter.com/0vn3sLeaah
At a less established Premier League side such as Burnley, Heaton perhaps misses out on the limelight.
Heaton so underrated. Such an asset for Burnley. What a marvelous save!
— Pete Sharland (@PeteSharland) October 16, 2016
But he was never going to fly under the radar after that stop.
>Just seen slo mo replay - Save of the season!!! There will not be a better....#Heaton
— Rodney Marsh (@RodneyMarsh10) October 16, 2016
And the greatest compliment of all? Earning comparisons with England legend, Gordon Banks, who made a similar save against Brazil at the 1970 World Cup.
Tom (Gordon Banks) Heaton
— Glen Little (@GlenLittle07) October 16, 2016
Heats with his best Gordon Banks impression there! Incredible save!
— Andrew Greaves (@AndrewGreaves84) October 16, 2016
Although we’re not sure it was THIS good.
That save from Heaton was comfortably better than Gordon Banks'.
— Andy Ha (@_AndyHa) October 16, 2016
Steady on.
