'No explanation' - Danny Murphy slams 'ridiculous' decision in Leeds United defeat to Newcastle United

Danny Murphy has slammed a 'ridiculous' decision in Leeds United's 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United in assessing two of the game's most contentious calls.
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Newcastle recorded just their second victory of the Premier League season in Saturday's contest as Jonjo Shelvey's 75th-minute free-kick sailed through the Whites box and beyond 'keeper Illan Meslier.

The free-kick appeared to take a slight nick from Newcastle substitute Ciaran Clark in a crowded box on its way in but Murphy says there can be no doubts about the goal being given as every Magpies player was onside.

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Instead, the former midfielder was more irked about both referee Chris Kavanagh and also VAR failing to award Newcastle a late penalty as Whites midfielder Robin Koch looked to defend a surge into the area from Allan Saint-Maximin.

WINNER: Newcastle United's Jonjo Shelvey fires home the only goal of the game via a free-kick in Saturday's clash against Leeds United at Elland Road. Photo by George Wood/Getty Images.WINNER: Newcastle United's Jonjo Shelvey fires home the only goal of the game via a free-kick in Saturday's clash against Leeds United at Elland Road. Photo by George Wood/Getty Images.
WINNER: Newcastle United's Jonjo Shelvey fires home the only goal of the game via a free-kick in Saturday's clash against Leeds United at Elland Road. Photo by George Wood/Getty Images.

The Magpies star went to ground as he looked to turn back on Koch and Murphy says there was clear contact which should have led to a spot kick at a time when the Magpies were already 1-0 up..

"This is a penalty, I don't know how he has missed it," said Murphy on Match Of The Day.

"Thankfully for Newcastle it wasn't relevant in terms of the final score but you see the touch and they have missed it.

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"I can't really give any explanations, it's just one of those ridiculous decisions."

Reflecting on the only goal of the game - of which there were some calls for offside given the touch in the box - Murphy said: "I think it's important to clarify.

"We initially thought it could be an offside but the fact that he didn't get the touch is irrelevant because he was onside.

"I am pleased for Jonjo Shelvey, I thought he was absolutely terrific.

"Shelvey was top draw."

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