Blackburn v Leeds controversy sparks debate as ex-FIFA official speaks out
Ao Tanaka cannot have any complaints after conceding the penalty that led to Leeds United losing 1-0 to Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park on Saturday, according to Keith Hackett.
The hosts were awarded a penalty after the Japan international brought down Tyrhys Dolan right at the edge of the box in the 20th minute, with Todd Cantwell then converting the resulting spot-kick and giving his side the win on 30 November.
Hackett, a former FIFA referee and PGMOL chief, hit out at Tanaka for being careless with his challenge, although he admitted Dolan was looking for a contact to go down.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, he said: “The Blackburn Rovers player [Dolan] was very clever, clearly recognising the Leeds United player to his left and waiting for contact to be made before he goes to ground.
“The Leeds United player rather than challenging with his feet uses his body and right hand/arm slightly outstretched.
Blackburn v Leeds controversy sparks debate as ex-FIFA official speaks out
“[He] then raised his arms to try to say no offence. It is a careless challenge by the Leeds player who then raises his arms in a ‘not me Ref’.
“The Referee was in a terrific position to correctly award a penalty kick.”
The controversy sparked a debate between both sets of fans, with the Whites supporters arguing that the foul did not warrant a penalty, although the Rovers faithful think otherwise.
Meanwhile, Tanaka, who has been excellent for the Whites in recent weeks in Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev’s absence, would be disappointed to have conceded the penalty.
The result, nevertheless, saw the Elland Road outfit miss the chance to reclaim their place at the top of the Championship table, with Sunderland now boasting a three-point lead over them.
Daniel Farke cut a frustrated figure at full-time as he was spotted exchanging words with the opposition captain Lewis Travis [Graham Smyth].
The German tactician, who thought Dolan should have been sent off in the second half for a high-footed challenge on Junior Firpo, also had a go at the referee after the game.
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