Source: Daily_Mail
GRAHAM POLL: Martin Atkinson got the big decisions wrong
Referees are remembered for their big decisions in big games. Unfortunately Martin Atkinson got some wrong on Tuesday night and they cost Manchester United. [LNB]Atkinson failed to deliver consistency in similar incidents, the basic requirement for match officials. [LNB] Lucky Luiz: The Chelsea defender should have been shown a second yellow card for this foul on Rooney [LNB]In the first half, Manchester United were denied a penalty when John Terry handled a shot from distance. Although his hands were by his side, the ball travelled a long way and Terry ensured that the ball did not pass - a clear offence. Nothing was given. [LNB]However, when Yury Zhirkov took the opportunity to go over Chris Smalling's outstretched leg, Atkinson had no hesitation in awarding the home team a spot kick. It was soft, but just about the correct call. [LNB] Venting his anger: Rooney confronts Atkinson after the final whistle [LNB]An even clearer example came when David Luiz deliberately tripped Wayne Rooney off the ball - a clear cautionable offence. [LNB]As he had already been cautioned, Luiz should have been dismissed. Nemanja Vidic was not afforded such tolerance later in the game. [LNB] Spot on: Zhirkov went over Smalling's outstretched leg in the penalty area [LNB]Last Saturday, Manchester United coach Mike Phelan asserted that 'you can't dispute a referees' decision'. After this display by Atkinson, Sir Alex Ferguson is unlikely to agree.[LNB] Chelsea 2 Manchester United 1: Fergie calls for justice! Referee is target for outrage after Lampard penalty winnerMartin Keown on Chelsea v Manchester United: You're a silly boy, Vidic!Wayne's pain as Ashley has the last laugh in the clash of football's bad boysManchester United FC news from across the web Chelsea FC news from across the web Explore more:People: Wayne Rooney, Alex Ferguson, John Terry, Mike Phelan, Nemanja Vidic, Martin Atkinson
