Real Bedford boss furious at penalty decision in play-offs exit at Spalding
Real Bedford manager Rob Sinclair was furious over a contentious penalty decision that denied his side a fourth successive promotion on Saturday.
The Pirates conceded twice in extra-time to lose their Southern League Premier Central play-off final at Spalding United, but had led 2-1 two minutes into the 10 added minutes at the end of the game before the home side were awarded a disputed penalty.
Real felt Sam Cartwright had made contact with the ball as he challenged Yusifu Ceesay in the box, but a penalty was given and scored by Jack Roberts.
Earlier, Yusifu Ceesay had given Spalding a 37th minute lead only to see Ben Stevens level from 25 yards on 56 minutes and then Josh Setchell smash home what looked to be an 84th minute winner.
Instead, another 30 extra minutes were needed and goals early and late in extra-time by Bartosz Cybulski and Ben Fowkes saw the Tulips home.
“I am immensly proud but I am hurting and gutted as the effort and courage the players showed today was incredible - to be 1-0 down and fight back to get that 2-1 lead,” said Sinclair.
“Not just today, they have been an incredible group to work with.
“So I am gutted for them, the staff and all the supporters.
“I have to be careful what I say, but I think the officials today were poor for both sides, not just for us.
“Obviously we were the ones on the end of a shambolic decision.
“I have seen it back multiple times. For him to get that wrong and then book Shaheim (Ward), who doesn't even do the tackle, is baffling.
“They will look back at that – officials make mistakes as do players and managers, everyone.
“But to make that kind of mistake in a play-off final in a big moment like that, you just can't guess.
“It was an unnacceptable performance from the officials today, but we have to take that.
“We are a small club in terms of fan base. So to see that many there today getting behind us was brilliant and thank you to them.
“Right now it's hard to think about next season as we are hurting. But we will take the off season and summer to plan and look to have another go at it next season.
“Well done to Jimmy (Dean) and his team. They have won the game and got promotion and they have been a good side this season and deserve their shot at the National League North.”