Leeds United’s seven-game unbeaten run came to a dramatic and painful end on Wednesday night as they were edged out 4–3 by Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
Touted by many as a contender for game of the season, the encounter delivered a breathless seven-goal thriller, ultimately decided in the hosts’ favour deep into stoppage time.
Leeds looked on course for a memorable away win until Bruno Guimarães struck from the penalty spot in the 90th minute to bring Newcastle level, before Harvey Barnes fired home again 10 minutes later to complete a dramatic late turnaround.
| Newcastle United | Statistic | Leeds United |
|---|---|---|
| 17 | Shots | 11 |
| 7 | Shots on target | 6 |
| 62% | Possession | 38% |
| 509 | Passes | 229 |
| 86% | Pass accuracy | 70% |
| 9 | Fouls | 9 |
However, the referee’s performance during the game has come under scrutiny. Both sets of fans are complaining about some of the decisions made.
Alan Shearer slams the referee after the Newcastle vs Leeds game
The main bone of contention was the penalty that was awarded to Leeds towards the end of regulation time, when Leeds were 3-2 up in the game.
BBC pundits have already slammed the referee for giving away a soft penalty, as Brenden Aaronson could not have jumped without his arms going up as well.
Micah Richards also stressed that it can’t be a penalty, and Shearer agreed. The Newcastle legend, there was no way the Leeds star could have tried to challenge for the ball without his arms going up.
Richards said on the Rest is Football podcast: “That penalty, come on, it wasn’t a penalty, surely.”
Shearer said, “As you know, I’ll always give you an honest opinion, and I was the same.
“What is he meant to do with his arms when he’s going to challenge. It’s just not handball, it can’t be handball, I just don’t agree with it, so I’m with you on that one, Micah, but obviously I’ll take it.”
Not the first time a referee has robbed Leeds this season
Leeds United have gradually moved themselves away from the relegation conversation, yet a growing section of the fanbase believes the club could be sitting higher up the table had officiating standards been more consistent.
There have been several contentious moments this season. Referee Anthony Taylor required VAR intervention to spot what many viewed as a blatant foul by Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté on Wilfried Gnonto at Elland Road, a decision that was initially missed in real time.
More recently, former Leeds striker Jermain Beckford publicly criticised the officiating team following the 1–1 draw with Brentford, after Dominic Calvert-Lewin was denied a penalty he felt was an obvious call.
Wednesday night produced one more result, which could have been different had the referee shown more common sense.
While Daniel Farke continues to draw encouragement from the overall progress his side has made this season, there remains a sense that both the head coach and supporters alike will be hoping for improved consistency and sharper decision-making from referees in matches involving the Whites.
Both penaltys shoukdnt of been giving I didnt hear any pundit comment on the Leeds penalty that was giving double standards