Allegri angry at refereeing decisions

AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri has blasted Juventus and criticised Serie A referees after his team’s 1-1 draw with Catania.

The league leaders were forced to settle for a draw at Stadio Angelo Massimino after Nicolas Spolli cancelled out Robinho’s strike in a pulsating encounter.

But Allegri rued what he felt was another controversial decision against his side when Robinho’s late effort was cleared off the line by Giovanni Marchese, although it appeared most – if not all – of the ball had crossed the line.

“It’s very difficult to tell, but it is a goal,” Allegri told Sky Sport Italia after the game.

“It’s not about the referee or the linesman, as it is difficult to tell, but the problem is that there are many who keep on talking and ought to shut up.”

Earlier this season, Allegri’s side played out a 1-1 draw with title rivals Juventus after a Sulley Muntari goal was not paid despite crossing the line.

The 44-year-old, whose team are five points clear at the top, said it was time Juventus stopped complaining about referees.

“Once again this morning I read that someone wants an advantage from the officials,” Allegri said, referring to Juventus director general Beppe Marotta’s interview.

“We played four balanced games this term and each time there were incidents that went against us.

“They were with Juventus when the Scudetto seemed to be closed off, in Florence and in Rome with a penalty awarded and then taken away.

“Therefore people ought to shut up. I read yet more talk this morning, but the error on Muntari’s goal is worth the entire tournament.

“I never cause controversy, but then these people again insist on talking about the referees. At this point, clearly I have to join in and talk about refereeing incidents too.”

Meanwhile, Allegri also spoke of his disappointment at his side’s performance against Catania.

“We threw away too much possession in attack without creating enough chances,” he said.

“In the second half Catania came out very strong, but we stopped playing too early, probably because of the Champions League fatigue.

“It was important to win, but we knew it was going to be extremely tough, because Catania are a great team. At the moment, at least we added a point to our standings.”