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LEYTON Orient praised on-loan Tottenham goalkeeper Josh Keeley for his late equalizer that took the game into extra time during the FA Cup second round match against Oldham Athletic.
As the game neared the conclusion of stoppage time, with the London side on the brink of an unexpected elimination at the hands of their non-league competitors, they were awarded a free kick just outside the penalty area.
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The Irish goalkeeper, 21 years of age, was greeted with joyful cheers from the fans as he made his way into the opposing penalty box for the free kick.
In an impressive display of skill, he connected perfectly with the curling cross, guiding it into the bottom corner of the net.
Wild celebration erupted among the home supporters as Keeley exuberantly sprinted away following his remarkable goal.
Orient had initially been behind thanks to a goal from Manny Monthe, and it seemed they were on the edge of exiting the competition.
However, everything turned around when Keeley executed a stunning header in the 99th minute, guaranteeing that the match would stretch on for an additional 30 minutes.
In an incredible twist of fate, Orient ultimately clinched victory.
Forward Dan Agyei scored the decisive goal in the 121st minute, leaving the visitors lamenting the missed opportunity for a penalty shootout.
Nevertheless, it was Keeley’s pivotal goal that played a crucial role in achieving this triumph.
The Republic of Ireland U21 international joined Orient on loan in August.
He began his football journey at St Patrick’s Athletic before making a move to North London in 2022.
Though he has yet to make a first-team appearance, Keeley has shown exceptional promise in Tottenham’s U21 setup.
Last season, he had a loan spell with Barnet, where he featured in 21 matches across all competitions.
This season, the young talent has already taken to the field for nine appearances.
