Rob Staton, a BBC analyst, has blasted one important moment in the Leeds United vs Preston North End encounter.
This afternoon, Leeds United travelled to Preston North End for an early Championship match.
The Whites arrived at Deepdale in fantastic form, having lost just one of their last ten Championship games before today’s game, and coming off a 4-0 win over Ipswich Town.
After a cagey first half devoid of quality, Illan Meslier was issued a straight red card shortly after the restart, and Preston took the lead through Alan Browne minutes later.
Daniel Farke then made three substitutions, bringing in Wilfried Gnonto, Ilia Gruev, and Mateo Joseph just before the 70th minute, and Leeds appeared re-energized.
The Whites were rewarded for their efforts when Pascal Struijk converted a penalty, but Preston won 2-1 thanks to a sensational late strike from Liam Millar.
After Illan Meslier’s red card, Rob Staton comments, “the sport is done.”
The defining event in today’s game was, of course, Meslier’s red card.
And it was a contentious one as well; Meslier ran out to collect a cross into the box, and after a brief fight with several Preston players, Meslier shoved forward Milutin Osmajic, who fell down.
Referee Josh Smith was eager to issue a red card and dismiss Meslier.
Leeds United are not at the races despite a controversial red card.
Although Leeds fans and Farke may be upset with Meslier‘s dismissal, Leeds were not at their best today.
The first half was relatively open, with both teams having their fair share of the ball but neither testing the other team’s goalkeeper.
The Whites had only two shots on goal throughout the 90 minutes, and while they held their own after falling behind, they didn’t produce enough clear-cut chances, and the few that they did create were not taken.
And Meslier will undoubtedly feel let down by his teammates; whether it’s a soft red or not, players can’t raise their hands at others, so if the club appeals Meslier’s red remains to be seen.
Leeds United travel to West Bromwich Albion on Friday night in what will be a crucial match in the race for the Championship play-off positions.
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