Sunderland FC

• Nickname:
• Founded:1879
• Manager:Steve Bruce

• Ground:
• Capacity:NaN

Keane: Rise above decisions

23 Dec 2007 - 12:05:54

Click To Enlarge

Sunderland manager Roy Keane has urged his players to 'rise above' the recent controversial decisions that have gone against them in Premier League matches.

The Black Cats boss was critical of the officials who ruled Stephen Hunt's last minute winner for Reading in a 2-1 success on Saturday a legitimate goal.

Goalkeeper Craig Gordon appeared to prevent the ball from completely crossing the line at the Madejski Stadium but the goal was allowed to stand by the assistant referee.

Last weekend, Keane's side saw a last minute Danny Collins effort ruled out in the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa after referee Steve Bennett ruled he had fouled goalkeeper Scott Carson in the build up.

"People will talk about the goal last week but there were lots of decisions that went against us," said Keane.

"That's the way things are at the moment and we have got to try to rise above it.

"We could talk all night all about it but it isn't going to change anything.

"Nobody is certain it crossed the line. If the referee's assistant can give it then obviously he has got very good eyesight.

"I've seen a replay and I am told to believe every game that if an official is not sure on any decision, be it a sending off or a penalty kick, if they are not sure they can't give it.

"If the linesman is sure then all credit to him. He must have fantastic vision because we have watched it a few times and it is still unclear."