Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hailed “absolutely extraordinary” Cowman Kelleher after last season’s Carabao Cup hero’s club record as he scored three spot-kicks to save the holders embarrassment against the League One derby at Anfield. save
After failing to find a breakthrough in 90 minutes, Klopp’s side were forced to rely on the goalkeeper whose penalty gave them the trophy to reach the fourth round of the season at Wembley in February.
Kelleher parried penalties from Conor Hourihane, Craig Forsyth and, crucially, Lewis Dobbin, allowing Harvey Elliott to slot home the final kick to send Liverpool through.
In Kelleher’s eight EFL Cup appearances, Liverpool have won all four that have gone to penalty shoot-outs – with the Republic of Ireland international saving a club-record six spot-kicks.
It was a deserved success as the hosts carried most of the attacking threat.
But, backed by a raucous 5,600-strong traveling support, Derby battled throughout, captain Max Bird spurning the visitors’ best chance in front of Kelleher’s goal early in the second half.
The winning streak means Liverpool have not won a home game in the competition in normal time since 2016. Not that it would bother them too much.
Asked about Kelleher’s record, Klopp said: “In history? Wow, those were really good penalties. They were all going into the corner, not that there were any bad ones.”
The Liverpool boss added: “He is absolutely phenomenal. He is a modern goalkeeper. As calm as you want. He can play football and also keep the ball out of the net.
“I’m over the moon for him. When he smiles, you know it means a lot to him. He’s got many years of goalkeeping ahead of him.”
