Oxford United’s relegation clash with Bradford City ended in the most dramatic of circumstances, with their winning goal at first being ruled out.
Not only that, but a penalty was awarded to visitors Bradford City. That decision was overturned and a goal kick then awarded, before finally the Jamie Mackie striker was allowed.
The win saw Oxford climb out of the bottom four, moving a point clear of Walsall in 21st. Bradford meanwhile sink to the bottom of the table after Wimbledon won to keep their hopes of survival alive.
Just three points separate Walsall in the final relegation spot and Plymouth who are 12th in the table. In League Two, the gap between 12th and 21st is 11 points.
It’s the closest relegation battle for years with half of the division still in dire need of victories. If the proximity wasn’t enough, the frankly ridiculous scenes at the Kassam simply added to the drama.
Fans from both sides were quick to criticise, although Oxford fans seem to be angrier at the referee, whilst Bantams are fuming with their own players.
He’s a cross section of the responses doing the rounds this morning.
We lost because we're poor don't let the last 2 minutes fool you in to thinking we deserved anything
— John Egglestone (@jonny_egg) March 16, 2019
@EFL This needs to be appealed and the referee should never officiate another game. What is the @EFL doing about the frankly piss poor standard of officiating? Another poor referee has costs us again, only this time it could've cost @officialbantams the season.
— Richard Leach (@Bantam045) March 16, 2019
That was the final nail in the coffin I’m afraid. Today’s joke decision shouldn’t overshadow how bad this team is. COMPLETE overhaul is needed. I’m absolutely gutted
— Rossi Lad (@MarkRossRossi) March 16, 2019
I cautioned about Bowyer; in three games he has affected very little; there has been no new manager bounce !? A game we certainly could not afford to lose. 5 wins from 8 games ? whats in this teams DNA that makes that remotely achieveable #thisteamthisclubhaveletusdown
— BSABantam74 (@RJamesAllen2) March 16, 2019
We were woeful! Disgrace of a team! DOWN!!
— Bantamaj (@AJBeeca) March 16, 2019
Dear @EFL can you please explain why a referee would even think about doing this?? Yours sincerely, a very confused, emotional pregnant lady that really could have done without that rollercoaster ride ???
— Lauren Allison (@LaurenJAx) March 16, 2019
I've never witnessed a scene like it, utter shambles by the ref who seemed to change his mind depending on who shouted the loudest.
— Nicöla Von Lemmium (@Lemmy_is_god) March 16, 2019
How can it be a pen?
— Mark Lambourne (@mlambourne) March 16, 2019
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