Norwich goalkeeper goes viral for horror tackle that 'almost killed' striker but wins free-kick

Norwich goalkeeper Angus Gunn has gone viral for a horror tackle on Hull striker Aaron Connolly - which ended with the shot-stopper winning a free kick.

The two sides faced off in the Friday evening kick off in the Championship, with visitors Norwich winning 2-1 at the MKM Stadium.

The Canaries went 2-0 up through goals from Jonathan Rowe and Christian Fassnacht, before Liverpool loanee Tyler Morton scored what proved to be a consolation for Liam Rosenior's Tigers in second half stoppage time.

But the game could have gone far differently if there had been a different outcome from Gunn's challenge on Connolly.

The incident, which occurred in the opening 10 minutes of the game, saw the former England U21 goalkeeper rush out of his goal in an attempt to cut out a pass.

But Connolly, who has eight league goals to his name this season, was also trying to get there first.

The striker then ended up being wiped out as Gunn jumped, missed the ball and accidentally collided with the striker's head.

You can watch the clip below.

Angus Gunn just got a free-kick for doing this against Aaron Connolly. 🤯🤯 pic.twitter.com/phzE5I5pHx

— Sunday League Footy (@SundayChants) January 12, 2024

To the surprise of everyone watching, the challenge actually resulted in a free kick being given against Connolly.

The Republic of Ireland international forward, who landed on the back of his head after the tackle, was unable to continue due to concussion.

Speaking after the game, Hull boss Rosenior was understandably furious that his side were penalised as a result of Gunn's challenge - although did show some sympathy towards Gunn.

He said (quotes via Hull Daily Mail): "I don't know how we're penalised for a free kick.

"I can understand why the goalkeeper's come out. He had a very good game. I don't know if you can punish him - I think they're both going for the ball.

"But it's clearly our free kick at the least. I don't want players off the pitch, but for us to be penalised for that, pretty much sums up how I feel the refereeing decisions have gone against us this season."

Hull remain in seventh place after their defeat, one point off the play-off places - and will now be without one of their key players for at least a couple of weeks.