Liverpool FC

• Nickname:
• Founded:1892
• Manager:Kenny Dalglish

• Ground:
• Capacity:NaN

Angry Rafa turns on referees

11 Feb 2010 - 07:49:18

Click To Enlarge

Rafael Benitez claimed refereeing mistakes are undermining Liverpool's efforts to secure a top four finish in the Premier League this season.

The Spaniard was furious that referee Howard Webb failed to award his side a stoppage-time penalty after Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas handled a free-kick from Steven Gerrard during his side's 1-0 defeat at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night.

The fourth-placed Reds lost to a second-half header from Abou Diaby as their nine-game unbeaten run came to a frustrating end.

"We are really disappointed with the decision of the handball. It was very, very clear," he fumed.

"The players were on the line. It was a handball. It has to be a penalty if you see the replay.

"During the game you do not realise how clear the handball was but watching the replay the referee was there.

"This year we have had some decisions that we are not very happy with. Today is another one. But you cannot complain too much because you have to be ready for the next game. You cannot waste time talking about this."

Meanwhile, Benitez described a second-half abdominal injury which ended defender Jamie Carragher's evening as "not serious".