The six-a-side Baller League has given a platform to some hidden gems but one former Premier League defender stole the show with a stunning goal
Former Premier League defender Ciaran Clark scored a brilliant trivela in the Baller League.
The 36-time Republic of Ireland international played for Aston Villa and Newcastle United in the top-flight, racking up 214 Premier League appearances. But the 35-year-old, who is without a club, showed his talent in the six-a-side Baller League tournament.
Lining up alongside hidden non-league gems and a host of former professional footballers, Clark showcased his talent for Luis Figo’s Trebol FC team. Despite playing in his natural defensive role, Clark found himself getting on the scoresheet.
Just four minutes into Trebol’s clash against M7 FC, Clark stole the ball as last man and brought Trebol forward. An effort from wide was parried outside of the box where Clark had drifted as he joined the attack.
The ball broke the way of the former defender, who unleashed a first-time trivela effort that slammed into the far bottom corner.
Fans on social media were stunned by the finish, with one saying: “He’s still got it!” A second added: “That strike was a beauty!“ Another lauded: “Clark still knows how to make an impact!”
While a surprised user quipped: “Just put that ballers league on for the first time and instantly saw Ciaran Clark score.”
Clark is playing for Trebol FC, who are managed by former Real Madrid and Barcelona legend Luis Figo. Despite his strike putting his team 2-0 up, Trebol were beaten 5-4 thanks to the gamechanger.
The 35-year-old came through Villa’s youth academy after joining at the age of 11, he made his debut in 2009 as a 19-year-old. Clark joined Newcastle in 2016 in a reported £5.1million move and helped them win immediate promotion back to the top-flight.
He went on loan to Sheffield United in the 2022/23 season before joining Stoke City as a free agent in 2023 following his release from St James’ Park.
Elsewhere, former Arsenal, Nottingham Forest and Villa midfielder Henri Lansbury scored twice for VZN FC as they beat SDS FC 4-2.