Hilarious: Referee in Leafs/Devils game completely botches call after review, infuriates fans in New Jersey
During the Leafs' Wednesday night matchup against the red hot New Jersey Devils, our boys in blue appeared to give up an unlucky goal to open the scoring. A shot from the point bounced off of Nathan Bastian's foot and past Matt Murray. Referee Justin Kea was quick to wave it off, however, as Bastian had made contact with Matt Murray prior to the puck going in, resulting in a goaltender interference ruling.
Devils coach Lindy Ruff challenged the call. Honestly, this one could have gone either way. Bastian absolutely made contact with Murray, but not all that much. Murray was unable to set his feet properly for the shot though, which lead to the no-goal call. I believe it was the right call, but it's absolutely understandable if Devils fans have an issue with it.
The hilarity occurred when Kea, who was working just his 6th NHL game, had to skate to centre ice and announce the ruling. The call on the ice was confirmed, meaning the goal wouldn't count. Kea mistakenly announced that it was a good goal before hastily correcting himself to a chorus of boos from the unruly New Jersey fans.
It's a tough look for a rookie referee, and, based on how red his face went, one he won't soon forget!
