I am always reticent to overly criticise goalkeepers, mostly because the analysis of them comes with such conviction from those who have not played in the specialised role, even if they are ex-professionals.
Goalkeeping is its own artform, with its own demands. You are a distant figure at times, almost forgettable in dominant teams spending large periods of a game without much bother. But the scrutiny in those short bursts of activity can define a result, and the scrutiny is ever harsher.
Nowadays it seems like the analysis of goalkeeping has gone up an extra notch with the introduction of advanced analytics, whilst also the microscopic detail we take to analyse shots from distance. Romeo Lavia's equaliser for Southampton was a perfect example. Struck with venom at the edge of the box, good placement, great speed and bodies in the way. Edouard Mendy got a palm to it, but the power took it in.
