Wigan Athletic Football Club News

• Nickname:Latics
• Founded:1932
• Manager:Roberto Martinez

• Ground:JJB Stadium
• Capacity:25,000

Seething Jewell blasts ref

12 Feb 2007 - 07:54:51

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Livid Wigan Athletic manager Paul Jewell launched a scathing attack on referee Phil Dowd after watching his relegation-threatened side concede two goals in the last ten minutes to lose 2-1 at Arsenal.

The Latics led 1-0 when Emile Heskey was hauled down by Mathieu Flamini inside the penalty area but Dowd waved play.

To add insult to injury the Gunners then grabbed an equaliser from a move that Jewell insisted should have been disallowed for offside.

The Latics boss, who rushed on to the pitch at the final whistle to confront the official, blasted: "Dowd has cost our team the points - it could cost us £50million."

Jewell also alleged that the referee swore at his players during the game, adding: "I don't mind because it's a man's game - but then he's telling me that I'll be sent into the stands for having a go at him. It can't all be one-way.

"If he wants to take my conduct to the authorities, then I'll take his language to my players to the authorities as well.

"I'm sure I'll have to explain my comments to the Football Association but, if I do, I'll just show them a video of the game.

"I'm going to get into trouble, I know that, because I made my mind clear to the officials."