Keith Hackett, a respected former FIFA official, has publicly lauded referee Sam Allison for his excellent handling of the Leeds United versus Sheffield Wednesday match on Friday night. Leeds secured a 2-0 victory with goals from Patrick Bamford and Wilfried Gnonto at Hillsborough, in a match notably devoid of contentious incidents.
Hackett, known for his critical eye, broke from tradition to offer praise where it was due. Via his Twitter account on March 8, he expressed his admiration for Allison’s work, stating, “Sam Allison delivered an outstanding performance in the match Sheffield Wednesday vs Leeds United. Well done to him and I hope that he gets another game in the Premier League.”
Leeds United’s Smooth Sailing to Victory
It’s rare for football fans to witness a game where the referee’s decisions don’t become a focal point of post-match discussions. Allison’s commendable officiating ensured the spotlight remained firmly on the players and the game itself, much to the appreciation of the fans.
The atmosphere at Hillsborough was electric, with both sets of fans eagerly supporting their teams. Despite this, Allison managed the game with a level of finesse that allowed for fluid play, effectively using the advantage rule and maintaining a low profile — traits of exceptional refereeing.
Leeds United was able to display their superior skills unhindered, leading to a well-deserved win. Allison’s ability to facilitate such a game serves as a reminder of the positive impact that high-quality officiating can have on football, potentially easing the controversies surrounding VAR and improving the overall fan experience. Kudos to Sam Allison for setting a high standard in the realm of football refereeing.
