QPR manager Gareth Ainsworth stated that Leeds United’s Patrick Bamford agreed there was no contact from Asmir Begovic during the ‘keeper’s challenge on the striker that resulted in his dismissal.
QPR were defeated 1-0 against Leeds United on Wednesday night. Crysencio Summerville scored the game’s sole goal to give the hosts all three points, but that wasn’t the only noteworthy occurrence.
R’s goalkeeper Begovic was sent off after being found to have taken down Whites striker Bamford late in the game. It resulted in Lyndon Dykes taking over in goal for the final few minutes of the game, but film of the replay rapidly surfaced on social media, revealing Begovic’s lack of contact in the challenge.
PATRICK BAMFORD DIVE🤮🤮🤮
Begovic sent off for this. pic.twitter.com/cjIubmPkJB
— UpTheRs (@UpTheRs) October 4, 2023
Now, following the game, it has emerged that Bamford admitted to QPR boss Ainsworth that there wasn’t any contact.
As relayed by Phil Hay, Ainsworth labelled the Leeds United striker ‘a great lad’ and hopes to appeal the sending off.
Ainsworth on the red card: "I've had verification from both players that there was no contact. Patrick's a great lad, he said he jumped out the way." Hopes to appeal the decision which, all in all, shouldn't be difficult. #lufc
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) October 4, 2023
The following steps
Time will tell whether Begovic’s red card is overturned on appeal, but Bamford’s admission should ensure that the QPR goalkeeper does not miss any games due to suspension. Given the key role he has taken on since his arrival, his absence would be a setback for Ainsworth and company.
Looking ahead, the R’s will be determined to return to winning ways as soon as possible. They are now in the Championship relegation zone with eight points from ten games and have not won in five.
Leeds United moved into the play-off spots with their win last night. Daniel Farke’s team are sixth in the table and will be thrilled to have recovered from the Southampton defeat with three points.