Attack wins you games, but defence wins you titles.
Or something like that.
It's an old footballing cliche that usually stands the test of time.
Part of the defence is the goalkeeper. The man between the sticks who can earn your team precious points that can contribute to trophy success.
Just like a striker's goals, a goalkeeper's saves can be priceless over the course of a season.
The Irish League has plenty of top keepers who are helping their teams at both ends of the table.
We recently asked fans on social media who they thought was the best keeper in the top flight this season.
And there were plenty of top answers.
We have listed the five most popular below, and if you have any other picks then let us know in the comments.
Jethren Barr - Portadown
In what has been a testing season for the Ports, South African goalkeeper Barr has been a standout performer. Has played virtually every game since September, going on to make 20 appearances in the Irish Premiership. His performances have helped Portadown pick up some valuable points this season as they look to stave off relegation.
Gareth Deane - Coleraine
Another popular choice from fans. Deane has become a firm favourite at Coleraine since making the move from Linfield back in 2020. Has contributed to the Bannsiders having one of the best defensive records in the Premiership this season.
Declan Dunne - Dungannon Swifts
A young goalkeeper with a very bright future ahead of him, Dunne started off the season at Cliftonville before earning a move to Dungannon Swifts in the January transfer window. Started Cliftonville's first 14 league games of the season before finding himself second to Luke McNicholas. Dungannon made their move in January with Dunne helping the Swifts win four of their six games so far in 2022.
Jordan Williamson - Ballymena Utd
Another name that featured prominently in fans' answers was Ballymena United shot-stopper Jordan Williamson. The 26-year-old was ever-present in David Jeffrey's starting XI this season but a troublesome knee injury - which required surgery - has ruled him out since December 21.
Chris Johns - Linfield
Another popular choice was Linfield keeper Chris Johns. The former Coleraine has played all but one of the Blues' Premiership games this season and produced some brilliant saves. Probably doesn't get the credit he deserves but he makes our supporters' short-list.
