Patrick Bamford verdict emerges after Leeds United controversy on Sky Sports
Former Premier League referee Chris Foy has given his verdict on the Patrick Bamford handball controversy as Leeds United beat Rotherham United 3-0 on Saturday 10 February.
The Leeds forward was spotted in replays using his elbow as Leeds opened the scoring against the Millers after just 10 minutes, but the goal stood after match officials missed the controversial moment.
Bamford’s goal was made even more controversial as he motioned with his elbow during the goal celebrations at Elland Road, suggesting the handball was a purposeful move.
Speaking via Sky Sports’ Behind the Whistle on Tuesday (13 February), Foy said: “This decision was one of the talking points of the weekend, and the replays confirm that Leeds’ No. 9 uses his arm to score the goal which put his side ahead.
“Although the situation happens quickly, the replays show clearly that the Leeds player raises his arm and deliberately handles the ball, therefore this goal should have been disallowed and a yellow card shown.”
Patrick Bamford causes contention at Leeds United
By letter of the law, Bamford should have been awarded a yellow card for his very own ‘Hand of God’ moment against Rotherham. It was not his finest moment, especially after the celebration.
However, it is tough to argue that Leeds would have won the game anyway. Crysencio Summerville’s brace condemned the visitors to a 3-0 loss, and although the game could have changed if Bamford’s goal was ruled out, the win felt inevitable.
That is not the point. The main point is that Bamford probably should have owned up to what he did. But it could be argued that is what the officials are there to do, spot the faults, such as the handball to score Leeds’ opening goal.
Nevertheless, Bamford will not receive any retrospective action, which will be key for Leeds as they continue to push for Premier League promotion. With Joel Piroe dropped to the bench, the Englishman’s impact has been huge in recent weeks.
Should the Whites manage to claim promotion to the top tier of English football, it is unlikely that Bamford will be able to get away with a similar goal with the eagle-eyes of VAR watching in the Premier League.
In other Leeds United news, Farke may be set to axe one Leeds star v Swansea City.
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