Women’s M League grand final clanger under investigation

A controversial ‘no goal’ ruling has marred a soccer grand final with footage revealing the ball entering the goals, before escaping via a hole in the side netting.

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A controversial ‘no goal’ ruling has marred the grand final of a southwest Sydney women’s soccer competition, with vision surfacing on social media revealing it was a legitimate goal.

The result of the women’s M League grand final, the highest level female competition in the Macarthur region, is now uncertain with a formal protest lodged by the defeated Ingleburn Eagles.

The controversial ‘no goal’ in the M-League Womens grand final. Picture: Facebook / Wim Kantona

Confusion erupted following a second half strike by Eagles’ striker Kelly Milligan, with footage revealing the ball travelling through the goals before escaping the netting through a hole.

The on-field officials deliberated before ultimately disallowing the goal.

The ‘no goal’ would’ve granted the Eagles a 2-1 lead against the two-time defending premiers Camden Tigers. The final result saw the Eagles lose by a single goal, 3 — 2.

Ingleburn Eagles president Michael Winter confirmed the club had lodged a formal protest.

“We are bitterly disappointed that such an error could happen,” he said.

“The team was totally devastated. It clearly was a goal. I understand mistakes are made but that was devastating. It had an impact on the game, no doubt.”

Mr Winter said the club was hopeful of a grand final rematch.

The score was 1 — 1 when the ‘no goal’ took place.

The Eagles are said to be “devastated” by the ruling.

The Macarthur Football Association said in a statement that the netting had been inspected before the match at Lynwood Park, St Helens Park.

“Video footage and images of the incident have emerged which suggest the ball travelled through the goal and out of a small hole in the side netting, which was not discovered upon inspection prior to the match commencing,” the statement said.

Camden Tigers have been officially crowned winners of the Women’s M League for 2019.

Football NSW officials, referees and Macarthur Football Association representatives spoke after the match and decided to march forward with the official presentation.

“The Association will continue to liaise with Football NSW and the Macarthur District Football Referees Association in relation to the protest lodged by Ingleburn,” the statement said.

A verdict on the official protest is expected in coming days.