Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier made a costly mistake in stoppage time of the second half, misplaying the ball and allowing Sunderland to equalize.
However, cameras caught the Frenchman laughing with Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris after the match. As a result, one pundit understands why Leeds supporters aren’t so keen on forgiving Meslier for his mishap.
The match started poorly for Leeds when Chris Rigg scored for the home side in the ninth minute, putting them down 1-0. However, the Whites quickly bounced back, with Joël Piroe finding the net in the 22nd minute to level the score.
Both teams went into halftime tied at 1-1. Leeds regained the lead in the 56th minute when Junior Firpo scored, putting them in a strong position to secure the win. But the game took a dramatic turn in stoppage time.
A costly mistake by Meslier allowed Sunderland to equalize. Alan Browne’s cross hit Firpo’s head, and as Meslier tried to catch the ball, it slipped through his fingers and rolled into the net, handing Sunderland a crucial point.
Dan Bardell believes Illan Meslier opened himself up for criticism
Leeds supporters were understandably upset with the goalkeeper, and their frustration only grew when they saw him smiling and chatting with his former manager after the final whistle. Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell believes the 24-year-old has made himself vulnerable to criticism with his behavior after the match.
“It won’t endear him to an increasingly frustrated fanbase, it’s not something I like to see myself either,” Bardell told MOT Leeds News.
“He is a good keeper, particularly at Championship level, but you can’t be pictured laughing after a mistake of that magnitude. I feel for him to an extent, but you are leaving yourself open to criticism with that reaction.“
Meslier will have an opportunity to redeem himself in the first match following this international break against Sheffield United next Friday. The Blades are a promotional rival, so a win is needed, especially since the contest is at Elland Road. The Whites have struggled to secure victories against clubs that are contenders for the two automatic promotion spots.
