sport news Is this the 'worst refereeing call ever?' Fans slam 'astonishing' decision to ... trends now
West Brom claimed a 2-0 victory against Rotherham on Wednesday night in controversial circumstances, after a penalty was awarded against Millers winger Lee Peltier for hand ball, despite the ball striking him outside of the box.
Carlos Corberan's side tightened their grip on a spot in the play-offs, with Brandon Thomas-Asante putting the hosts ahead after 23 minutes, netting his 12th goal of the season from close range.
On the stroke of half-time the Baggies would double their lead with John Swift scoring from the spot to seal the win.
But the decision to award the penalty has been branded as 'astonishng' and a 'disgrace' by some fans online after Thomas-Asante had wound up another shot from long-range that was blocked by Peltier.
The winger, who had advanced to the edge of the D, had jumped to block the striker's attempt and had seemed to raise his arms and turned his body towards the shot.
West Brom beat Rotherham 2-0 at the Hawthorns after a controversial handball decision
Brandon Thomas-Asante's shot appeared to strike Lee Peltier outside the penalty area
Referee Geoff Geoff Eltringham subsequently gave a penalty to West Brom for hand ball
West Brom subsequently appealed to referee Geoff Eltringham to award the penalty with Rotherham left aghast at the decision.
He subsequently pointed to the spot, with Millers assistant coach Rob Kelly being shown a yellow card for protesting with officials on the touchline.
Sam Cluclus had reportedly told journalists that the referee had told them that the hand ball was 'miles inside the area'.
Journalist Paul Davies wrote on X (formerly Twitter): 'Sam Clucas says ref told #rufc players penalty incident was 'miles inside' the box.'
After the match, former Rotherham manager Ronnie Moore admitted his shock at the decision, claiming that the 'officials had cost' them the match.
'It's unbelievable,' he told the BBC. 'I've never seen anything like that in my life. How on earth has he given a penalty there?
'The second goal changed the game. The referee has cost us there whilst it's 1-0 you're always in the game.'
The result means Rotherham stay
