ROMAINE SAWYERS slid an incredible 25-yard own goal to gift Leeds their opener in a 5-0 romp at lowly West Brom.
New Baggies’ boss Sam Allardyce watched in disbelief as the midfielder had a ninth-minute nightmare.
Romaine Sawyers reflects on his ninth-minute nightmare as his own goal put Leeds in front at the HawthornsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Local lad Sawyers drilled a low backpass that stunned keeper Sam Johnstone, who reacted late but probably had little chance anyway.
Leeds’ official Twitter account quickly rubbed it in, posting: “Sawyers with a great goal!!!”
And as you might expect, ex-Brentford star Sawyers, 29, looked shell-shocked.
But Leeds blitzed three more goals just before half-time to almost overshadow Sawyers’ embarrassment.
And at least ex-Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford was on his side – despite calling it a “fantastic finish”.
Beckford told Radio 5 live: “It was so unfortunate as he has been one of West Brom’s best players this season.
“He’s one of my favourite players for the Albion, so to see the manner in which he scored that own goal is pretty unfortunate.
“When the tide is against you, you are always going to be up against it.”
Most comments on social media teased Swayer for his “great finish” and “beautiful hit”.
But others called his intervention a “calamity” and “Sunday League”.
Ezgjan Alioskia and Jack Harrison later struck fine goals for Leeds before Rodrigo’s deflected shot confirmed their total first-half control.
And on 72 minutes another exciting counter-attack ended with Raphinha curling a fifth goal that was as brilliant as Sawyers’ own-goal opener had been bizarre.
Leeds players celebrate after the bizarre bonus of an own goal opener from West Brom midfielder Romaine SawyersCredit: Reuters
Sam Allardyce hopes West Brom can build on their draw against Liverpool when they face Leeds
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
