Adam Pope rages at ’embarrassing’ Junior Firpo for what he did in Leeds United win vs Peterborough United
Junior Firpo was criticised by BBC pundit Adam Pope for his “embarrassing” and “terrible” defence even though Leeds United defeated Peterborough United with ease.
At The Weston Homes Stadium on Sunday, January 7, the Whites defeated Peterborough, a third-tier team, 3-0 to secure their spot in the FA Cup round of four.
Firpo did not have the best of games at left-back, though, and after failing to tackle a Peterborough player in the second half, Pope called him out live on BBC Radio Leeds [7 January, 3:39pm].
“Firpo is beaten far too easily,” Pope said. “I have to say, that’s the weakest defending I’ve seen. It’s terrible.
“Patrick Bamford gives the ball away but it’s all brought on because Firpo – it’s embarrassing, his inability to put in a challenge.”
Caught out
This cup match in the third round was Firpo’s only second start of the season, but the defender failed to take full advantage of the chance.
Last week, he assisted on two goals against Birmingham City, but he was unable to do the same against Peterborough.
Furthermore, he was pulled up defensively on a few occasions, including this one that really infuriated Pope.
Since Firpo used to play for Barcelona, it makes sense that he would be able to blend both the offensive and defensive aspects of the game.
He has never been the best defensive player, though, which is why people do not trust him as much as a player of his calibre perhaps ought to.
However, it was encouraging to see others take advantage of their opportunities, Bamford among them following his incredible second goal for Leeds.
Places are becoming more and more competitive, so it will be interesting to see what Firpo does next.
In related development:
plus-cash bid to beat Leeds in transfer race for defender – report
Leeds United: Pundit gushes over Patrick Bamford, namechecks Alejandro Garnacho after ‘sensational’ moment v Peterborough
Patrick Bamford’s “sensational” and “unbelievable” strike helped Leeds United upset Peterborough United 2-0 in the FA Cup third round, according to ESPN co-commentator David Phillips.
Early in the second half at London Road, the Whites striker intercepted a 60-yard throw with his chest, spun on the spot, and volleyed into the top-right hander corner from about 25 yards.
As part of the world-feed coverage of the match, Phillips co-commented on ESPN on January 7 and stated that the attempt was superior to Alejandro Garnacho’s overhead kick for Manchester United against Everton back in November.
Phillips said, “That is an incredible bit of finishing from Bamford; he was able to control that ball while off the deck then swivel on the volley.”
“Daniel Farke ought to smile a little more because that was an incredible goal from Patrick Bamford. Talk about Garnacho for Manchester United, in my opinion, this is a better goal. Had to see that ball from 60 yards, the way he’s able to pull it down.”
Outrageous skill
And he paid Farke back with a striker’s dream come true, dragging the ball out of thin air and putting an unstoppable effort past a defenceless Peterborough custodian.
Did it measure up to Garnacho’s? That’s definitely a matter of taste, though, considering the Garnacho’s goal was also an absurd one (I know, given who he plays for).
Who cares, though? It was a fantastic moment for Bamford, Leeds, and the supporters alike. Let’s hope this may ignite a deep cup run for Leeds, which hasn’t seen many in the last ten to fifteen years! And if not, we’ll always be reminded of this.