Aston Villa vs Leeds United ref watch: Three decisions Michael Oliver got wrong

Michael Oliver faced intense scrutiny during the heated Premier League clash between Aston Villa and Leeds United at Villa Park on Saturday, February 21. Both teams desperately sought a return to winning form, with Leeds advancing in the FA Cup via penalties against Birmingham City, while Villa chased points in the title race. Leeds' Anton Stach, back from injury, opened the scoring to lift them to 14th, but Tammy Abraham's dramatic 89th-minute equalizer ignited the Villa crowd. Tensions nearly boiled over late on as players vied for victory, but Oliver's key errors drew widespread criticism.[1]

Michael Oliver tricked by Emi Martinez

Early in the match, Oliver awarded Villa a free-kick inside their penalty area after a corner. Leeds captain Ethan Ampadu was deemed guilty of pulling goalkeeper Emi Martinez to the ground. Replays, however, suggested Martinez initiated contact, using his notorious tactics to deceive officials and buy time or fouls—a ploy that worked again here, fooling Oliver.[1]

Premier League clash slowed by whistle-happy referee

Oliver's frequent stoppages disrupted the game's flow, frustrating fans craving seamless Premier League action. Both sets of supporters vented irritation by full-time, though Leeds celebrated a vital away win, climbing the table despite the referee's interruptions.[1]

Third major error: Overlooked Leeds penalty claim

The article highlights a third contentious call where Oliver dismissed a clear penalty shout for Leeds after a Villa defender's challenge in the box, deemed accidental on review but biased by Villa's pressure. This compounded perceptions of inconsistency, fueling post-match debates on Oliver's performance amid Villa's equalizer push.[1]

Despite Oliver's credentials—including FA Cup finals and World Cup games—his decisions here alienated neutrals, overshadowing a thrilling encounter. Leeds fans rejoiced the points, but Villa rued missed opportunities amid officiating woes.[1]