NEWS: Andre Arendse says goalkeeping not in dire straits in South Africa, it’s just that Ronwen Williams has raised the bar so high

Speaking on the state of goalkeeping in Mzansi after the Tshwane derby, SuperSport assistant coach Arendse said the crucial department was not in dire straits yet.

The 1996 Afcon winner, however, said Williams has revolutionised goalkeeping, taking it to dizzy heights and the need for others to work twice as hard to reach the level.

“Ronwen has set the bar very high with goalkeeping, and he is unmatched at the moment. There’s no question about that and has been for a while,” Arendse told media at Loftus Stadium in Pretoria.

“So, it’s up to the other goalkeepers to lift their standards and levels, and that’s a personal thing. That comes from the (heart) and (mind) and Ronwen has got that about him.

“In terms of ability, there’s no question that goalkeeping is in good hands from an international perspective, I do not doubt that,” he said.

“But the recent performances have proved that when Ronwen doesn’t play, he leaves a big gap in a team and that’s not being negative on other goalkeepers, it’s for all to see.

“It’s up to them to close that gap as much as possible because Ronwen has set the bar very high.”

Williams’ exploits have not gone unnoticed as he was recently nominated for the prestigious Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d’Or awards alongside nine other goalkeepers.

Arendse challenged goalkeeper trainers to ensure that the country has more goalminders on the level of Williams or closer.

“As goalkeeper coaches, we have a lot to do in our own pockets that we work in in terms of developing,” said Arendse.

“For me, it’s ongoing. Goalkeeping is still a big part of my coaching. We are always developing, and we are always trying to get people closer to the bar set by Ronwen.”