Goodwin was introduced in the 70th minute, with Sparta trailing 1-0 to midtable Excelsior.

The Australian stepped up for an 86th minute free-kick, which he curled expertly in at the far post.

The result ends Sparta's run of five consecutive defeats, but isn't enough to lift them out the bottom three.

Sparta are 17th with six points from nine games, three points behind 15th-placed Willem II in safety.

Kenny Dougall put in a full shift for Sparta.

Elsewhere in the Eredivisie overnight, Mark Birighitti played a full game as NAC Breda lost 2-0 at home to PEC Zwolle.

Terry Antonis was an unused substitute as VVV Venlo lost 2-0 at home to ADO Den Haag.