Exclusive: PGMOL insider reviews Sheffield Utd controversy after Wilder explosion
Chris Wilder was livid after Sheffield United had a goal ruled out against Bristol City in the first leg of their Championship play-off semi-final, and Keith Hackett has given his thoughts on the controversy.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that it was “difficult not to support” the decision.
Sheffield United ran out 3-0 winners at Ashton Gate on Thursday (8 May), taking a big advantage into the second leg at Bramall Lane with a first-half red card for Bristol City damaging the Robins’ game plan.
On the stroke of half-time, Kieffer Moore broke through on goal before being unceremoniously hauled down in the box by City defender Rob Dickie.
The referee immediately pointed to the spot and produced a red card, deciding that Dickie had not made any attempt to play the ball, voiding the double-jeopardy rule.
Harrison Burrows converted the penalty, and second-half goals from Andre Brooks and Callum O’Hare mean that the Blades look set to go to Wembley.
Wilder furious with disallowed goal
Sheffield United boss Wilder exploded into a foul-mouthed rant on the sidelines when Tyrese Campbell’s header was chalked off with the score still locked at 0-0.
The Blades manager marched over to the fourth official and let him know exactly what he thought of the decision that had just been made.
Campbell had latched onto a Jack Robinson long throw, managing to beat City keeper Max O’Leary to the ball and nod home.
| Stats | Bristol City | Sheffield United |
| Goals | 0 | 3 |
| Shots on Target | 1 | 6 |
| Corners | 2 | 5 |
| Yellow Cards | 0 | 1 |
| Red Cards | 1 | 0 |
Referee Oliver Langford originally gave the goal, but following a discussion with the linesman determined that Sydie Peck had blocked Jason Knight from being able to clear the ball, and disallowed it.
In the end the decision didn’t prove costly for Wilder’s side and it seems as if Sheffield United have already booked their place in the play-off final.
If they don’t relinquish their three-goal lead, the Blades will face either Sunderland or Coventry at Wembley for a place in the Premier League.
Keith Hackett agrees with controversial offside call
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett confirmed that the referee and linesman had come to the correct decision.
“The Sheffield United player (Peck) was in an offside position when the ball was headed in his direction.
“His position impacted on his opponent and clearly the officials with a subjective decision decided to rule offside.
“It’s a decision that is difficult not to support.”