Keith Hackett could not believe the wrong decision was made after Patrick Bamford’s goal for Leeds United was ruled out against Middlesbrough.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that the linesman made the “incorrect” decision to take away the forward’s first goal since last facing Boro in April 2024.
Referee Andrew Kitchen had already disallowed one goal on the night, with Ao Tanaka’s back-post goal adjudged to be offside by the linesman, only for replays to show he had timed his run perfectly.
With the Whites battling Burnley and Sheffield United for a top-two finish in the Championship, every moment counts, and Daniel Farke appeared to be furious with the decisions on Tuesday, 8 April.
Leeds United hold on for victory at the Riverside Stadium despite setbacks
Despite the disallowed goals, both given incorrectly, Dan James’ early opener made the difference at the Riverside Stadium, and saw the Whites go straight back to the top of the table on the strength of a 1-0 win.
Of course, this is not the point, with officials’ mistakes almost playing an incredibly key role in what could have been another frustrating night for Farke’s side, but they just about escaped with all three points.
Farke’s job could also be on the line at Leeds, especially if his team misses out on promotion for a second consecutive season. And Bamford nearly made sure that some pressure was alleviated.
After another three months on the sidelines, it would have been an incredible return to the Leeds team for Bamford, though he did play 27 minutes against Luton Town last time out.
Patrick Bamford goal wrongly ruled out against Middlesbrough
Speaking to Football Insider about the second offside decision, Hackett said:
“Oh dear. Leeds United have had a second goal incorrectly ruled out for offside. Leeds United’s Bamford timed his run to perfection.”
Leeds are now set to welcome Preston North End to Elland Road next, with a chance to keep their spot at the top of the Championship table, before then facing Oxford United at Kassam Stadium.
Leeds Exclusive: Ex-PGMOL boss outraged by Patrick Bamford issue at Middlesbrough
