Rotherham United manager Leam Richardson hit out at linesman Nick Hopton for unprofessional behavior after Saturday's 3-0 Championship loss at Leeds United. The controversy began when Patrick Bamford appeared to divert a deflected low cross from Junior Firpo into the net with his elbow to put United 1-0 up on ten minutes.

What happened?

Bamford's celebrations, which implied he used his elbow, left a sour taste in the mouth of Millers players, with Richardson showing his anger after remonstrating with the officials on the touchline.

Why it matters for Rotherham

Richardson said: “It was tough with the challenge ahead of you before you arrive. I thought we started the game in the ascendancy and the goal has not cost us the result, but led to a large part of it with the handball.

Current context

As of June 28, 2026, Rotherham United sits 23rd in League One with 41 points from 46 games, having scored 41 goals and conceded 71. Their recent form has been LDLWL, with 0 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses in their last 5 games. | Category | Stat | | --- | --- | | League standing | 23rd | | Points | 41 | | Goals scored | 41 | | Goals conceded | 71 | | Recent form | LDLWL | | Last result | Wycombe 3-2 Rotherham (2026-05-02) | | Title race | 62 points behind leaders Lincoln | Richardson was disappointed for his players, but congratulated Leeds on their win, acknowledging their quality and counter-attacking ability.