Did you know that Nicky Evrard (27 y.) from Balegem is the goalkeeper of the Red Flames? Against Iceland Nicky turned out to be the best Belgian. She saved Thorvalsdottir’s penalty and made crucial saves. The Red Flames actually got away with it, many thanks to Nicky Evrard. Thanks to her it stayed 1 – 1. What a power girl! She played a superb game. She confirmed her good form. A lot of skill.
The future of the Balegem Nicky looks promising. After the European Championship she becomes the goalkeeper of OH Leuven. There was also a lot of interest from foreign clubs. Justly. The skilful hands of Nicky Evrard still gave Belgium a point. The Icelandic girls were often goal-oriented, played along nicely, but Evrard was very alert to keep goal. At the beginning of the second half, she had no chance when – after a fight – Thosvaldsdottir put the 0 – 1 on the board. We think she did some good cursing. After that, Nicky Evrard stopped pleating. She had great reflexes, including hitting a well placed ball from under the bar. An important rescue. Of course she would have preferred to keep her tent empty. Van Haemermaet was able to cash in on a justified penalty. Dragged a point out of the fire, actually with many thanks to Nicky. Mentally Nicky is strong, we saw her concentrate for ninety minutes. She shows mental ‘higher power’. She also makes progress in playing soccer, practically all the balls arrive. She will now focus on the upcoming matches.
Becoming a goalkeeper for the Red Flames is definitely a dream come true. A great goal, it’s great when that plan is a reality. In her youth she was a field football player and goalkeeper at the same time. Goalkeeper for the girls, and – guess what – attacker for the boys. At 22 she is only professionally trained. Insiders quickly knew what Nicky is capable of. Everything fell into place. She keeps with an infinite supply of confidence. Her strong performance might spark something in young girls who see her as an example. And hopefully they also dream of a career with the Red Flames.
And now look forward to the next Flames matches: France – Belgium (Thursday, July 14, 9 pm) and Italy – Belgium (Monday, July 18, 9 pm). (mvdv, photo ddl)
