Leeds United clinched a crucial 2-0 victory against Sheffield Wednesday on Friday night, igniting controversy as Owls manager Danny Rohl criticized Patrick Bamford’s opening goal, citing its timing.
Despite Wednesday’s dominance in the first half, a collision between Joe Rodon and Junior Firpo resulted in five minutes of injury time, providing Leeds with a golden opportunity. Just as the clock ticked past the allocated injury time, Firpo delivered a decisive cross.
Bamford seized the moment, slotting the ball home to break the deadlock, 11 seconds into the additional time beyond the 49th minute mark. In the second half, Willy Gnonto doubled Leeds’ lead with a clinical finish.
The second goal was a testament to Leeds’ teamwork, as Bamford orchestrated a well-executed play, setting up Georginio Rutter, whose flick found Gnonto for his 16th assist of the season. Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Rohl expressed his frustration, stating, “It’s disappointing to leave empty-handed. Scoring just after extra time in the first half adds to the frustration of the game.”
However, Rohl’s criticism overlooks the fact that injury time is a minimum allocation, allowing Bamford’s goal within the stipulated time frame. Leeds’ triumph catapults them closer to automatic promotion, temporarily overtaking Ipswich to claim 2nd place, heightening anticipation for their upcoming clash against Cardiff on Saturday. With pundits like Paul Robison predicting promotion, Leeds United’s journey to the top intensifies.
