Rory Feely Takes Matters Into His Own Hands Against Swindon Town

Barrow AFC hosted Swindon Town earlier today and it was Barrow defender Rory Feely that stole the headlines. And not for an amazing defensive display.

44' Rory comes on in goal! 🥅

🐦 1-0 🔴#WeAreBarrow pic.twitter.com/v6jJKi9ZM0

— Barrow AFC (@BarrowAFC) September 7, 2024

Barrow started the game with 6 substitutes due to the fact that they don’t have an academy. Rules state that only clubs that have youth setups are able to register 7 players on the bench - otherwise they can only have 6.

Stephen Clemence decided that he would take a risk and not bring a backup goalkeeper with him. Something that would end up being an issue for Barrow after their keeper Paul Farman was sent off. This for handling the ball outside of his penalty area.

With no goalkeeper option available, Clemence turned to Feely to come on just before half time.

Gigantic Powerleague energy from Rory Feely, Barrow's RB who went in nets today. pic.twitter.com/jLwQC4HmgE

— Not The Top 20 Pod (@NTT20Pod) September 7, 2024

And to be fair to Feely what a game he had.

The Barrow defence had only conceded 1 goal this season heading into this game and they did a great job keeping the ball away from Feely’s net.

However when called upon Feely was there making 2 stops during the second half. Including a wonder save from a freekick.

Despite the good second half display it did end in heartbreak for Feely and Barrow with Swindon’s Daniel James Butterworth striking the ball from about 30 yards out in the final seconds of the game. This a shot that Feely was unable to get down to.

Any other goalkeeper and it certainly would have been a case of he could have done better but we will give the 27 year old Irishman the benefit of the doubt.

What a save from Barrow centre-back Rory Feely! 😮🧤 pic.twitter.com/Uwl4hZtgLP

— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) September 7, 2024

Even though he conceded late what a game Feely had in the Barrow net. And he might just be giving the other Barrow keepers a run for their money for the rest of the season.