Bruce slams late strike
16 Aug 2007 - 08:49:28
Birmingham City boss Steve Bruce blasted the match officials after his side conceded a controversial last minute equaliser in Wednesday's 2-2 draw with Sunderland.
The Blues looked to be heading for their first Premier League victory of the new season after a Paul McShane own goal and debut strike from Garry O'Connor had put them ahead at St Andrew's.
But former Birmingham striker Stern John salvaged a point for the Black Cats when he bundled the ball home in the dying moments.
The late heartache left Bruce lamenting referee Keith Stroud's failure to award a free-kick for a foul on Blues goalkeeper Colin Doyle by Roy O'Donovan.
"I was determined to go back in the Premier League and not bleat about referees or linesmen," he said.
"But I've seen their centre-forward jumping on my goalkeeper and stopping him getting up. I think the referee should be seeing that, because everyone else is seeing that.
"After he makes the save, he's still lying in the back of the net. The referee and linesman have missed it which has cost us dearly and it's a shame because he produced a fantastic save."
However, despite the late disappointment, Bruce believes the squad he has assembled this season is good enough to keep the club in the top-flight.
He added: "I think after looking at the two games we are better equipped than we were the last time we were in the Premier League. I am really pleased with what I've seen."
