If there has been one person in the decade known for “the screamer,” it has to be John Arne Riise, and he enters this list at #97 with a hammer of a goal in Holland during the 2006-2007 season.
Riise’s goals have often caught the eye for their pace and placement, and this goal was no exception to the rule. Let’s just say he doesn’t score tap-ins! In this case, Riise’s rocket came as the second goal in a 3-0 away victory in the quarterfinals that set us on-course for the semifinals in the Champions League. His goal didn’t exactly come against the run of play, but it did come from nowhere. A sloppy clearance from PSV’s rear-guard found its way to Riise, and from about 35 yards, and largely without defensive resistance, he let rip with his famous left boot into the top corner. Tie over, and in some style.
Like many goals Riise scored during his time at the club, this one came from well outside the box, was struck with the laces, and flew into a corner. His ability to score great goals was his endearing quality, as the rest of his game was effectively rubbish… but WHAT an endearing quality! His rippers, belters, howlitzers, or any other name for “screamer” that you’d like to attribute to the man’s goals are exactly why we watch the game. Though he kind of fizzled towards the end at Liverpool, we haven’t replaced his quality going forward and truly miss the man.
Why #97?
Had the goal been met with any resistance, it would have been in the top 50. Instead, it was essentially shooting practice and he had the time and space to pick his spot. But what a hit. It deserves to be on the list, no matter how you slice it. The distance, accuracy, occasion, and power all warrant this goal with the spot on the list, regardless of the ineptitude that led to the goal and the nature of the goal.
