Leyton Orient and Stockport share spoils in controversial draw | OneFootball

Leyton Orient and Stockport County played out a dramatic 2-2 draw in the first leg of their League One play-off semi-final at Brisbane Road on Saturday, with contentious officiating decisions taking centre stage.

The hosts took the lead on 30 minutes through Charlie Kelman, who netted his 26th goal of the season. However, the goal sparked controversy as replays suggested Kelman was in an offside position when he latched onto Omar Beckles’ headed pass. With no VAR in operation in the EFL, the goal stood, much to the frustration of Stockport players and staff.

Stockport responded in the second half, equalising via an Oliver Norwood penalty after Rarmani Edmonds-Green was adjudged to have committed a foul in the area. The visitors then took the lead when Fraser Horsfall headed home from a set-piece

Orient were awarded a late penalty, which Kelman converted to level the match at 2-2. Earlier, Kelman had gone down in the box under a challenge from Norwood, but no penalty was given.

Stockport, who finished third in League One, are aiming for a fourth promotion in seven seasons, while Leyton Orient secured sixth place on the final day of the regular season

The second leg will take place at Edgeley Park, with the winner advancing to the play-off final at Wembley Stadium on 25 May.

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