Former Irish League goalkeeper Aidan Harris scored a goal from inside his own half during Newcastle United’s 3-0 win over Fulham on Friday in the under 21s’ Premier League 2 fixture.
Harris returned to his parent club Newcastle during the January transfer window following a four-month loan spell in Northern Ireland and 22 appearances for Coleraine across all competitions.
At Whitley Park on Friday he made his mark for Newcastle by racing outside his penalty area in the second half to clear the danger – with his left-foot upfield punt dropping over the advanced Fulham goalkeeper.
Harris told the official Coleraine website in January how “I have loved being at Coleraine for the last four months...it’s been an enjoyable experience and my first taste of senior football in a man’s environment.
“I feel like I’ve dealt with that well and whilst I’ve had to come through a few bad experiences, I think it’s made me a better footballer and person, so it’s been a good start to my senior career.
“There is a great bunch of lads here and I felt accepted by them straight away, so I can’t thank them enough for that.
“It is a very competitive league, and you have to be at your best to get all three points.
“I quickly learned how tough it is and it’s quite physical for a goalkeeper but those are the challenges you want.
Goalkeeper Aidan Harris during his time in the Irish League this season with Coleraine. (Photo by David Maginnis/Pacemaker Press)placeholder image
Goalkeeper Aidan Harris during his time in the Irish League this season with Coleraine. (Photo by David Maginnis/Pacemaker Press)
“I’ll be back over watching Coleraine games when I can, and I’ll be looking out for their results.”
He stated his intention following a return to Newcastle to “work hard and see where it gets us”.