The Decline of the Screamer: How the Iconic Goal Fades.

Posted 2 months ago

By the time goal number 10 came around, the excitement had dimmed. Robin van Persie's goal against Watford—an elegant cut inside and a curled finish into the bottom corner—was tidy, but it didn’t pack the same punch as the previous nine.

In December 2006, the goal of the month competition showcased spectacular goals that left a lasting impression.
Commentators roared as players unleashed powerful shots from long distances: Paul Scholes nailed a dropping ball off the Aston Villa crossbar, Didier Drogba hammered a swerving volley past Tim Howard, and Michael Essien blasted a shot that nearly destroyed the net.

The goals came fast and from outrageous ranges, and though you might not recall every shot, they've likely popped up on social media over the years.

Among the highlights, Matt Taylor’s 55-yard volley stood out. Positioned just beyond the center circle, Taylor took advantage of a loose ball and launched a stunning shot over Howard.

Nearly 18 years later, Taylor recalls, "It just popped up nicely, and I thought, 'Why not give it a go?'"

Today, such audacious attempts seem less common among modern players.