Dermot Gallagher, a former Premier League referee, believes Leeds United were rightfully denied a penalty in their 1-0 loss to Blackburn Rovers.
A late Sammie Szmodics goal clinched Saturday’s (13 April) game at Elland Road, denting Leeds’ automatic promotion aspirations.
Leeds had a couple of penalty requests denied, including one at the end when Patrick Bamford was dragged to the ground.
However, Gallagher told Sky Sports News [15 April, 11:52am]: “I don’t think that’s a penalty. “I don’t think there is enough contact.”
Leeds United at the end of disputed refereeing rulings.
Everyone inside Elland Road, even those in the away end, was definitely waiting for the referee to point to the location where Bamford fell down.
James Bell’s decision not to award a penalty enraged the Leeds team, and coach Christopher John was given a yellow card for his reaction.
It was a big judgment, given that the point Leeds would have gotten if the penalty had been converted may have made all the difference this season.
Leeds have recently had multiple decisions go against them, none more so than the goalless draw with Sunderland last week.
United should have had two penalties that day, but they had none and drew 0-0.
If the Whites fail to advance, it will be simple to criticize certain players. However, some of these options must be taken into consideration.
