In a thrilling encounter at Edgeley Park, Stockport County and Leyton Orient battled to a chaotic 2-2 draw, marred by a controversial goal that left both teams questioning officiating decisions. The match, held on a chilly Tuesday evening, saw Charlie Kelman score twice for the visitors, including a late penalty that equalized the score. When Kelman opened the scoring early in the contest, it was a clear offside goal. This decision led to ire from Stockport players and supporters.
The moment started early in the first half when Omar Beckles flicked the ball on to Kelman. Others contended that Kelman could have been at least marginally onside when the original cross from Ducrot was played. Yet by the time Beckles put the ball in his path, he was obviously two to three yards offside. The goal led to clear anger from Stockport’s players and coach. Most would agree that it’s one of the top 10 worst officiating mistakes of this generation.
A Dramatic Turn of Events
Stockport came back fiercely after falling behind to the opening goal. They were able to equalize just a few minutes later, demonstrating a never-say-die attitude that awed their head coach. Richie Wellens was full of pride for his team’s doggedness in adversity.
“Massive credit to the players for reacting the way they did to such an injustice. When you get to these games, you want them to show what they can do. That mentality they showed, I’m really proud of them.” – Richie Wellens
The home team continued to apply pressure, and their efforts were rewarded when they took a 2-1 lead midway through the second half. Their lead proved to be little more than a momentary advantage as Kelman soon found himself with the chance to re-level Leyton Orient’s score line.
Controversial Penalty Decision
Fouls were flying as the match neared its conclusion, and as players tussled in the Stockport penalty area, Kelman was brought down by Ollie Norwood, leading to a penalty kick converted by Leyton Orient. This judgement call deepened the anger over bad officiating calls made earlier in the game.
Kelman showed no fear as he stepped up to the penalty spot. The Skipper kept his cool, rifling the ball past the keeper’s outstretched finger-tips, and giving them a vital away goal and tying the tie at 2-2. The late drama served to up the ante even further in what was already an incredibly intense atmosphere.
“I probably don’t need to say anything because it’s glaringly obvious. There can be subjective decisions, but that’s plainly and clearly four yards offside.” – Richie Wellens
Stockport’s manager Dave Challinor was as scathing as you’d expect about their treatment from the match officials on display that day.
“The worst decision I’ve seen in 15 years.” – Dave Challinor
Even now, fans and analysts are still abuzz over the controversial decision to allow Leyton Orient’s opening goal to stand. It’s a contentious issue that just won’t die! More than a few people think it might have changed the result had it been called offside.
Looking Ahead
With both teams now even on aggregate heading into the second leg of their tie, the pressure is still on. The controversy surrounding officiating decisions adds an extra layer of tension as Stockport prepares for another fierce confrontation with Leyton Orient.
Both teams hope to go much further in the tournament. They’ll certainly take the dramatic heaviness of this fixture with them. The next battle is shaping up to be every bit as fierce! Players from each side are thirsty to play beyond themselves and avenge whatever reputational bitter beans are spilled in this collision.
Leave a Reply