Goodwin strikes to spare Sparta defeat in the Netherlands

Caltex Socceroo Craig Goodwin has come off the bench and scored a late equaliser to salvage a draw for Sparta Rotterdam in the Eredivisie overnight.

Goodwin was introduced with 20 minutes left with his side trailing 1-0 to Excelsior.

But with just four minutes to go, Goodwin struck with an excellent free-kick to make it 1-1 and earn a point for his struggling Rotterdam side.

The draw saw Sparta jump off the bottom of the ladder in the Netherlands, just above last-placed Roda JC on goal difference.

And it continues a good run of form for the former Adelaide United flyer who is likely to be in Ange Postecoglou’s squad for next month’s FIFA 2018 World Cup qualifying Intercontinental Playoff against Honduras.