Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier is under fire for his mistake in stoppage time that led to Sunderland’s equalizer, resulting in a 2-2 draw and costing the team valuable points. However, a former player for the Whites has stepped up to defend the Frenchman.
The match got off to a rocky start for Leeds, with Chris Rigg scoring for the home team in the ninth minute. However, the Whites quickly responded, leveling the score with Joël Piroe’s goal in the 22nd minute.
Both teams went into halftime tied at 1-1. Early in the second half, Junior Firpo found the back of the net in the 56th minute, seemingly securing the victory for Leeds. But in a dramatic turn of events during stoppage time,
Illan Meslier made a critical mistake that allowed Sunderland to equalize.
A cross from Alan Browne deflected off Firpo’s head, and as Meslier tried to collect the ball, it slipped past him and rolled into the net, handing Sunderland a crucial point.
Former Leeds player backs Illan Meslier to bounce back
While there many slamming the Frenchman for the error that cost Leeds the win, one former player is attempting to back him to ensure the player’s confidence doesn’t fall by the wayside once the FIFA international break is over.
“I really feel for Meslier tonight, not put a foot wrong tonight and in the blink of an eye one mistake changes the whole game in the final seconds,” former Leeds standout Jermaine Beckford wrote Friday on X. “Fortunately he’s going to save us more points than he will cost us. Let’s get behind him.”
I really feel for Meslier tonight, not put a foot wrong tonight and in the blink of an eye one mistake changes the whole game in the final seconds. Fortunately he's going to save us more points than he will cost us. Let's get behind him 💪🏾 #MOT
— Jermaine Beckford (@jermainebecks83) October 4, 2024
Daniel Farke and his squad need to regroup and return strong after the break, as they face a crucial clash against promotion rivals Sheffield United at Elland Road on October 18. Leeds recently drew against Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion and suffered a loss to Burnley.
Failing to secure victories against these promotion contenders could haunt them later in the season, especially if the Championship race remains as tight as it appears. Therefore, beating the Blades would be the ideal way to bounce back from the disappointment of dropping points at the Stadium of Light.
