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“That’s absolutely RECKLESS controversial decision in the game that should have seen Leeds United awarded a penalty kick”- Official slammed for Daniel Farke ban as Leeds stun Sunderland
Leeds manager Daniel Farke’s touchline ban after receiving a booking in the dramatic 2-1 win against Sunderland has drawn criticism of the fourth official from Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official told Football Insider exclusively that it was a “shame” the fourth official called referee Stuart Attwell into the technical area to issue a booking to Farke after Leeds’ last-minute victory.
Pascal Struijk, who came off the bench, scored twice as Leeds made a stunning comeback to defeat Sunderland. Joe Rothwell, who also came on as a substitute, provided two brilliant crosses, assisting both goals.
However, the German manager now faces a touchline ban after receiving his third yellow card of the season. Earlier in the campaign, Leeds fans had called for Farke’s dismissal following a defeat to Millwall, but since then, his side has regained form and now sit at the top of the Championship.
Leeds are now on a 15-match unbeaten run in the league and are edging closer to a Premier League return after their relegation in 2023.
Dan James, one of Leeds’ standout players this season, struggled to make an impact against a strong Sunderland defense. Dennis Cirkin had difficulty defending James, but the Welsh winger was unable to convert his chances. Manor Solomon also had a quiet game, despite Leeds fans wanting to see him signed permanently.
Farke’s tactical decision to bring on Struijk paid off, with the Dutch defender providing a much-needed aerial threat in the box and scoring both goals.
The win moved Leeds to the top of the Championship, two points clear of second-place Sheffield United.
Commenting on the refereeing performance, Hackett said, “There was one controversial decision in the game that should have resulted in a penalty for Leeds. But overall, I thought Stuart Attwell had a good performance. It’s a shame that in such a high-pressure match, the fourth official decided to bring Attwell over to issue a booking to the Leeds manager.”
Attwell had been a late replacement for the original referee, Craig Pawson, who was reportedly linked to Sheffield United, raising concerns of a potential conflict of interest.
