Leeds United were involved in a bizarre dispute over the location of a potential penalty shootout ahead of their FA Cup quarter-final against West Ham United at the London Stadium. Leeds manager Daniel Farke arrived at the ground only to be informed that if the match went to penalties, the shootout would not take place in front of the away end, where 9,000 Leeds fans were seated. The decision was reportedly made on safety grounds, in consultation with police and the local safety advisory group.
The game did indeed end in a penalty shootout, with the referee appearing to flip a coin to decide which end the spot kicks would be taken. Mirror Sport understands that the FA allows the Safety Officer, in collaboration with relevant authorities, to decide on the location if there is deemed to be a safety concern or risk. This could have led to an unusual situation, as shooting into one end can be seen as an advantage, and the referee typically tosses a coin to decide which end and which team goes first.
West Ham described the decision as a 'dynamic' one based on security, which would only be confirmed if needed. Leeds had previously won a shootout at Birmingham City this season, while West Ham won on penalties into the away end at home in front of 5,000 Brentford fans.
Ironically, Leeds did take a penalty in front of their vociferous backing during normal time, after Max Kilman fouled Brenden Aaronson, allowing Dominic Calvert-Lewin to put them 2-0 up. Leeds were in complete control after that point, but two West Ham goals in eleven minutes of added time forced extra time, and eventually penalties.
