Buckle’s woe intensified by officials’ failure to spot vital infringement

The Hatters slipped to defeat for a second consecutive year in the play-off final but had legitimate grounds for complaint with the winning goal by Matty Blair having come when the York man was standing in an offside position.

However, with the officials missing the offence, Blair’s 47th-minute strike stood and ultimately proved the difference between the two teams.

Luton chief Buckle said: “I am a positive coach and I agree with the rule that says you give the benefit of the doubt to the striker when it is nip and tuck. That is only fair.

“But it was so far offside that it was just wrong.

“I wouldn’t mind if he was in a poor position but it was crystal clear and it cost us dearly.”

Asked if he had spoken to the officials to register his upset, Buckle replied: “There is no point. Absolutely no point.

“I am not going to get anything from them. I would like him to knock on my door.

“Maybe I will get a phone call on that one as it is a big, big decision. It is one that officials are paid to do.

“I am paid to manage a team and keep our fans happy.

“They have to be there for that offside. It was crystal clear and they got it wrong.”

On Luton’s defeat, Buckle added: “We had an unbelievable start but then got a bit ragged and York passed the ball better than us.

“It meant we let them back in the game. In the end, it was two set-plays – one of which was offside.

“You always need a bit of luck in a final and, on the day, York got it.

“They were hanging on for dear life and I think if we could have got that goal then we would have gone on to win it.

“But York defended for their lives and held on. They are a good side and I congratulate them.”