O'Neill Backs Referee!

Last updated : 05 March 2012 By Footy Mad - Editor

ytr

The Mackem Leprechaun (pictured right) says both his players deserved red cards.

Martin O'Neill: "I have gone in to see the referee and you can't be abusing the referee and therefore it has to be merited. 

"There were plenty of mitigating circumstances though. Tiote is a fine player but he was very lucky still to be on the field.

"Stephane Sessegnon was sent off for lashing out.

"It's a sending-off offence and it hands the initiative to the opposition.

"I am very proud of the team and very disappointed to have dropped the points so late in the game.

"We played brilliantly first half and deserved to be in front. But it is difficult to win a game with 10 men. We defended resolutely and it was a terrific effort."

.