MAX Crocombe started in goal as New Zealand lost a friendly 1-0 to England.
The Millwall goalkeeper produced a string of impressive saves, tipping over former Lions loanee Harry Kane’s header before pushing away another swerving effort from the striker. However, he could do little to prevent Kane’s smart glancing header on the cusp of half-time.
The 32-year-old now looks set to start between the sticks for the All Whites as they gear up for their first World Cup since 2010.
Crocombe started nine of New Zealand’s past twelve friendlies and four of their six World Cup qualification fixtures, keeping three clean sheets. Crocombe has earned 24 caps since his international debut against Canada in March 2018.
New Zealand were drawn into Group G and will take on Iran, Egypt and Belgium.
Reaching the World Cup marks another milestone in Crocombe’s remarkable rise. Just four years ago, he was playing in the National League after struggling for regular minutes in Australia’s A-League.
Crocombe was promoted to League Two with Grimsby Town, then was snapped up a season later by League One Burton Albion, winning their player of the season award.
After two successful campaigns with the Brewers, Crocombe signed for Millwall, initially as their back-up and cup goalkeeper, before seizing his chance when Steven Benda picked up an injury.
Crocombe retained his place even after Benda recovered, starting 23 consecutive league games and keeping nine clean sheets.
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Millwall terminated Benda’s loan in January before signing another loanee, Anthony Patterson from Sunderland, who started the final sixteen matches of the campaign, including the 2-0 aggregate defeat to Hull City in the play-off semi-finals.
Crocombe finished the season with 25 appearances in all competitions in his first Championship campaign, conceding 26 goals and making 84 saves.
