IMO a good penalty taker should have:
1. Good striking technique.
2. Self confidence and ability to keep his nerve.
Owen has plenty of no. 2, but you can argue all you want Stu: of all the top strikers in the world at the moment, Owen does not hit the sweetest ball. That doesn't mean he's not a good player as he has many other strengths, but Owen rarely hits a ball cleanly. Owen has missed a few penalties even when he has been in absolutely flying form, as he sometimes scuffs it straight at the keeper.