noun. A player assigned to protect the goal in various sports.

noun. a designated player that attempts to prevent the opposing team from scoring by protecting a goal.

noun. the defensive position on an ice hockey or soccer or lacrosse team who stands in front of the goal and tries to prevent opposing players from scoring

noun. the soccer or hockey player assigned to protect the goal

"The quid pro quo on this should be that the goalkeeper is allowed to punch the (would-have-been-offside) striker in the face."