Rotherham boss Leam Richardson snubs referee Geoff Eltringham after West Brom controversy
Rotherham manager Leam Richardson refused to speak to referee Geoff Eltringham after he awarded West Brom a controversial penalty in the Baggies’ 2-0 win over the Millers at The Hawthorns, according to Rotherham Advertiser journalist Paul Davis.
West Brom, leading 1-0 after 23 minutes through Brandon Thomas-Asante, were given the chance to extend their lead from the spot in first-half stoppage time, which John Swift duly took.
However, replays showed that the penalty – awarded for handball in the box – should not have been given, with the ball striking Rotherham defender Lee Peltier in the face well outside the area.
Rotherham Advertiser journalist Davis wrote on X: “Leam Richardson refusing to speak with Geoff Eltringham. Ref has requested a meeting.”
Wrong decision made but comfortable West Brom looked likely to win
There can be no doubt that West Brom should not have been awarded that first-half penalty – but it can be argued that the Baggies were unlikely to have dropped points regardless.
Carlos Corberan’s men dominated the game against the already-relegated Millers, recording 68 per cent possession and six big chances – five, if you discount the penalty [FotMob].
Game state, of course, has an impact on these numbers, but West Brom were leading going into half-time and would perhaps have had even greater incentive to chase another goal had their advantage been just one going into the second period.
The number of big chances they crafted regardless indicates the Baggies did not exactly struggle to carve open their opponents and could have won the game by a much bigger margin.
Thomas-Asante, who netted the opener from close range, was the biggest culprit in that regard, failing to convert two more presentable opportunities. The first was a one-on-one where his attempted chip over Viktor Johansson was saved before snatching at a chance as the ball fell to him six yards out.
That will be of little comfort to Rotherham boss Richardson, however, who will still feel aggrieved at the erroneous penalty decision.
In other West Brom news, Jed Wallace has praised Corberan despite the Baggies boss missing out on an award.
For more West Brom news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.