Retro Football: When Vinnie Jones Went In Goal For Wimbledon Against Newcastle And Was Actually Fairly Good, 1995 (Video)

Chris Wright

25th, February 2019

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With reluctant goalkeepers very much the talk of the town at the moment, Pies thought we’d revisit one of the keenest beans to have ever stationed himself betwixt two Premier League posts.

The year was 1995, the month was October, and Wimbledon were playing Newcastle at St James’ Park.

The Dons were unfortunate to have recognised ‘keeper Paul Heald red-carded in the 57th minute and, with all three subs having already been made, a young, spry midfield terrier by the name of Vincent Jones volunteered to go in goal for the remainder.

However, to the astonishment of everybody, it transpired that Jones was actually half-decent and even managed to pull off a few convincing saves as the fans behind his goal cheered every parry, every lunge…

Indeed, Jones only conceded three goals during his 33-minute stint, with Lee Clark striking just a few minutes in before Les Ferdinand wrapped up his hat-trick (’63) and Philippe Albert added a late cake-icer (’84).

Wimbledon eventually ended up losing 6-1 but their makeshift goalkeeper, for what it was worth, had himself a rare old time.

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Can you even fathom how a player of Jones’ boisterous, care-free, slightly psychotic ilk would fare in today’s top flight?

Not overly well, we imagine.