Referee questions QPR’s actions in 2012

Background of the title race

The 2012 Premier League season concluded in an unforgettable showdown. Manchester United, winning 1-0 against Sunderland, anticipated securing the league title. However, Manchester City’s late-game heroics against Queens Park Rangers (QPR), culminating in two quick goals, changed the course of the championship, allowing City to claim the trophy on goal difference.

Rooney’s skepticism

Wayne Rooney, a renowned Manchester United player, has openly questioned the circumstances surrounding the dramatic late goal by City’s Sergio Aguero. Rooney voiced concerns over the unorthodox celebrations by QPR players with City post-match, a reaction he deemed unusual given both the stakes and the match’s outcome.

Dean questions QPR’s actions

Mike Dean, the referee for that game, also highlighted peculiar actions by QPR players. After City’s Edin Dzeko scored an equalizer, Dean noted QPR’s decision to quickly return possession to City. “It was odd how they just handed the ball back,” Dean commented, while recalling how match officials sensed unusual vibes during the game.

Responses from players

Djibril Cisse, formerly of QPR, defended the post-match celebrations. He explained that the relief was about QPR avoiding relegation, with personal moments of joy shared with friends from Manchester City, like Samir Nasri. Cisse dismissed Rooney’s doubts as misplaced.

Barton defends QPR’s integrity

Joey Barton, another former QPR player, rejected any suggestions of match-fixing. Barton insisted they were fighting hard to avoid relegation, and that Rooney’s claims of conspiracy are unfounded. Barton emphasized the commitment of QPR during the match, stating their focus was purely on survival.