An easy goal? Check, if need be (2,1,5)
I believe the answer is:
at a pinch
'if need be' is the definition.
(at a pinch means if required)
'an easy goal? check' is the wordplay.
'an' becomes 'a'.
'easy goal?' becomes 'tapin' (footballing term).
'check' becomes 'ch' (abbreviation).
'a'+'tapin'+'ch'='AT A PINCH'
(Other definitions for at a pinch that I've seen before include "in case of emergency" , "under pressure" , "If absolutely necessary" , "In time of difficulty or necessity - nip it" , "In case of necessity" .)