Wenger: 'The referee's decision made the difference'

Last updated : 24 October 2004 By Chris Parry
His post-match comment leave one in no doubt as his feelings:

"The referee's decision made the difference. Out of nowhere Riley has given the penalty like he can do at Old Trafford as we know. It's very difficult to take to see how lightly the referee gives the penalty. I don't think there was any contact and if you look at the images Rooney told our players nobody touched him."

"There is a deep feeling of injustice among my players because it is quite clear there was no contact. It feels like we have been robbed. Sol Campbell told me there had been no contact and in situations like that, the referee has to be sure.

"I didn't look obvious to me but look at the record of the referee in matches involving Manchester United. That tells you all you need to know."

He went on to say:

"Ashley Cole has a big bruise on his shin and nearly didn't come out for the second half after the incident with van Nistelrooy, but these type of tactics are exactly what I expected from Manchester United.

"This is what they always do when they are in a difficult situation and playing against us. It's disappointing because we were the better team. They hardly had a chance in either half before the penalty, so it's natural we are not happy.

"But we can only look after our own performance, we can't do anything about the referee. I am proud of my players and we are still a great side. Now we just have to go on another unbeaten run."