Guardiola quiet on costly decisions

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has refused to discuss the performance of referee Miguel Lasa in his side’s 1-1 draw at Sevilla on Sunday.

Barca’s lead in La Liga was cut to just five points over Real Madrid after the Spanish champions could only manage a point at Sevilla, though Lasa was in the spotlight for two decisions that potentially cost Guardiola’s side the game.

Firstly, the referee disallowed an early Lionel Messi goal after ruling that Sergio Busquets had infringed at the free kick.

Then, the referee waved away calls for a penalty in the second half after goal-scorer Bojan Krkic appeared to be felled in the area.

But Guardiola did not wish to make any comment on the referee and said he was satisfied overall with Barcelona’s performance.

“The referees always do their utmost,” Guardiola said.

“I’m a representative of the institution Barcelona. I don’t want to talk about the disallowed goal of Messi.”

“A Barcelona coach doesn’t discuss the referee’s performance.”

“We put in a good performance against a great team. Maybe we deserved more than a draw after our first-half performance.”

“Sevilla improved after the break and showed their great mentality.”

“Overall I’m quite satisfied with how we played. We always try to control the game, but sometimes you face a strong opponent. We didn’t lose though and never stopped trying.”