Welsh media react to what Karl Darlow did away from Leeds United
Karl Darlow earned his international debut as the Leeds United goalkeeper starred in Wales’ 2-1 Nations League win over Montenegro on Monday (9 September).
The 33-year-old backup at Elland Road was unable to keep a clean sheet but made several key saves to help Craig Bellamy secure his first victory in charge of the national team.
Early goals from Kieffer Moore and Harry Wilson, seeing Wales take a 2-0 lead after three minutes, meant they could see out the win despite a late goal from Driton Camaj.
Reacting to his performance, Wales Online [9 September] handed Darlow a 7/10 rating, writing: “Nearly caught out by Jovetic in the first half and was saved by the crossbar but made some smart saves to keep Montenegro at bay.”
Y Clwb Pel Droed [9 September] also gave a 7/10, writing: “Darlow earned his first senior cap for Wales as he took the reigns from Danny Ward. He did well with his distribution and made some very important saves including a very good double save to deny the hosts.”
Karl Darlow earns Wales debut v Montenegro
After the opening five minutes, many expected that Darlow may not have much to do on his Wales debut, but that was far from the truth as Montenegro pushed for a draw in the second half.
The Leeds ‘keeper remained focused in the awful conditions, replacing regular shot-stopper Danny Ward, keeping the opposition attack out, including a superb double save.
It could have been a very different story for the 33-year-old when former Manchester City man Stevan Jovetic smacked the crossbar from inside his own half, with Darlow left stranded under the flight of the ball.
Despite that rare moment of concern, the Leeds man was calm under pressure as Bellamy pushed for a more possession-based performance, playing out from the back with club teammate Joe Rodon.
While Illan Meslier is unlikely to give up his spot in the starting XI at Elland Road, Darlow has certainly done little to harm his chances of more game time under Daniel Farke once club football returns.
In other Leeds United news, one ace has shared stance on his Elland Road future amid new La Liga admission.
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