Death, Taxes And Sergio Ramos Late Goals
Sergio Ramos and late goals are becoming quite inseparable, as once again the Spaniard showed his penchant for late drama.
By David Cartlidge (@davidjaca)
"Sergio told me where I had to put it. I did, then goal!".
It was THAT easy, according to Luka Modric. That easy to continue to the legend that is Sergio Ramos and late goals.
A 90th minute equalizer in the UEFA Super Cup, a 90th minute equalizer in the Champions League final against your local rivals...and now a 90th minute equalizer against Barcelona, your most bitter rivals. All headers, too.
If people can take a swipe at Sergio Ramos' defending, they can't take one at his ability to pop up with vital games. And it doesn't appear to be about luck too. Ramos make himself a presence in the penalty area and his legacy of goals is an unsettling factor for opponents. Just when Barca thought they had things shut down on Saturday evening, it was the Spanish defender who added another late header to his legend.
Ramos has been here before against Barca too, and this was his fourth in Clasico games. All have come via his head. When it comes to his defending some do say where is his head at, but in regards to attacking everyone knows where it is - seeking out goals.
The goal at Camp Nou was Ramos' 75th career goal, an incredible feat for a defender who isn't a regular on penalties of free-kicks. The legendary Fernando Hierro holds a spectacular record himself, but he was regularly standing over set pieces.
Barca could perhaps do with that figure of their own. Gerard Pique has proved himself to be impressive with his feet over the years, but rarely produces a goal. Maybe it's that Pique has the edge over Ramos when it comes to defending, but when it comes to being an attacking threat it is where the Real Madrid man shines best.
Ramos can be derided for many things but his character in these situations is testament to how he approaches the game. His attitude is never say die, and keep fighting to the end. In play he's a combative figure, and over the years since joining Real Madrid's he has established himself as a leader in the dressing room. Even with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo around, it is Ramos who is seen as the icon of Real Madrid in this current era. It takes a special sort to muscle in on the hierarchy at this club an sit on top of the pile.
Maybe, after all, we should no longer be surprised at these Ramos goals. If we aren't, then that is even more testament to his status. One person who certainly isn't is his current boss. "Ramos does not surprise me. He has a personality like no other and is always there. He never gives up like the rest don't", stated the Frenchman at full-time.
Heartbreak for opponents? Absolutely. But for Sergio Ramos and late goals, it's nothing but a love story.