Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has reportedly slammed Craig Pawson after a series of controversial decisions during the dramatic FA Cup clash between West Ham United and Leeds United.
The quarter-final tie was filled with drama from start to finish as Leeds looked set for a comfortable victory before West Ham staged a stunning late comeback. However, much of the post-match conversation has focused on the officiating, with several key decisions leaving fans furious.
One of the biggest flashpoints came when a challenge on Brendan Aaronson was initially missed by Pawson, only for VAR to intervene and award Leeds a penalty, which Dominic Calvert-Lewin converted. Later in the match, multiple VAR checks, disallowed goals, and stoppage-time chaos added fuel to the controversy.
Mike Dean’s criticism has only intensified the debate, with supporters from both sides accusing officials of “spoiling the game.” Social media has since exploded with reactions, many calling it one of the most controversial FA Cup matches of the season.
Despite the officiating storm, Leeds held their nerve to win 4-2 on penalties and book a place at Wembley.
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