I came to this same conclusion while translating the gospels in college.This is the main reason I am not willing to trust most translations…..and instead will consult the original languages ………Upon arising questions.
It seems to be very human for others to reject any opinions that are not in alignment with their cherished doctrines.It is very human to think others should have the benefit of your opinion……….
What I find so amazing is that this information presents gospels that are in perfect agreement. To disagree is to affirm there are discrepancies or even outright contradictions. Whoever wrote these narratives were articulate and well educated.
When John says there are two on either side, or two on each side, that's what he means. There is no evidence anywhere that I can find in any Greek literature where translators insert these numbers to the phrase "enteuthen kai enteuthen"