Roy Keane Gives the Perfect Verdict on Sunderland Star After Masterclass Against Everton

Roy Keane Gives the Perfect Verdict on Sunderland Star After Masterclass Against Everton

In a dramatic FA Cup third-round clash on January 10, 2026, Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs delivered a performance for the ages, single-handedly knocking out Premier League side Everton with a heroic penalty shootout display. The Dutch shot-stopper, aged 22, saved all three of Everton’s spot-kicks from James Garner, Thierno Barry, and Beto, securing a 1-1 draw (3-0 on penalties) and propelling the Black Cats into the fourth round for only the second time in 11 seasons.

The match at Hill Dickinson Stadium saw Sunderland take an early lead through Enzo Le Fee’s brilliant first-half strike, assisted by Eliezer Mayenda. Despite Everton’s late equalizer via a contentious penalty converted by Garner, Roefs remained composed throughout normal and extra time. His heroics in the shootout—diving right for Garner, repeating the direction for Barry’s stuttering effort, and moving left to deny Beto’s tame attempt—earned him widespread praise as the undisputed man of the match.

Sunderland legend and pundit Roy Keane, known for his no-nonsense analysis and deep connection to the club he once managed to promotion, offered the perfect verdict on the young keeper’s masterclass. Keane highlighted Roefs’ calmness under pressure, reading of the game, and ability to stay grounded amid the intensity, calling it a “big moment” for the talent who has quickly become a key figure since joining from NEC Nijmegen in 2025.

This display underscores Roefs’ rising status in the Premier League, where he leads in save percentage and has contributed to Sunderland’s solid defensive record. Fans and analysts alike see echoes of great Dutch keepers like Edwin van der Sar, with Keane’s endorsement adding weight: Roefs isn’t just saving penalties—he’s saving Sunderland’s cup dreams and proving he’s a star in the making.