Michael Dawson calls out Leeds United vs Sunderland officials – ‘I can’t believe it’
Michael Dawson was left in shock with referee Stuart Atwell and his officials as Leeds United had a penalty shout rejected against Sunderland.
The Whites began the opening 45 minutes by controlling most of the game as they looked to take the lead against the Black Cats.
However, Luke O’Nien appeared to have fouled Pascal Struijk, but neither the referee nor VAR opted to get involved in the battle.
The moment has only furthered Leeds’ recent issues with the officials, with Daniel Farke shocked by his red card following the loss to Manchester City.
Farke believed it was the wrong decision on that occasion, and now, according to Dawson, Leeds may have been on the end of another at Elland Road in a first half that ended goalless.
- Read more: Everything we know about Pascal Struijk’s Leeds United contract: Exit speculation, wages and more
What did Michael Dawson say about Luke O’Nien moment vs Leeds?
Leeds may feel aggrieved that they were not awarded a penalty in the early stages of their match against Sunderland.
As the Peacocks took a corner, Sunderland defender O’Nien appeared to have wrapped his arms around Struijk’s neck.
However, referee Atwell did not look to get involved in the tussle, and not did his VAR team intervene, much to the bemusement of Dawson.
Dawson, who was covering the game on Sky Sports News said: “Leeds should have a penalty.
“It’s an out-swinging corner, and O’Nien puts his arms right across Struijk’s neck as he looks to get around him. I can’t believe VAR haven’t intervened.”
The decision to award Leeds a penalty could have opened the game up, as both sides struggled to break each other’s defences down.
What do Leeds need to do in second half vs Sunderland?
Leeds have neutralised the Black Cats’ attacking prowess in the opening 45 minutes, but they have not been at their best in the final third themselves.
Farke needs to find a way to get the ball to Dominic Calvert-Lewin more often and in goal-scoring areas.
The Englishman seemingly appears to love playing the Mackems, but so far there has been luck in that area.
Farke could turn to his bench to liven things up, with Daniel James a potential option to add more pace to the attack.
Additionally, Willy Gnonto is available to come on. There is plenty for Farke to think about in the second 45.
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