Fletcher stunned by booking

Fletcher stunned by booking

Darren Fletcher has spoken of his disbelief at the booking he collected for diving during Manchester United's 3-3 draw with CSKA Moscow at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

When the Scot went down under Vasili Berezutsky's ill-timed tackle, it appeared a certain spot-kick.

TV replays backed up that view but Portuguese referee Olegario Benquerenca showed Fletcher a yellow card for simulation.

Fortunately for the Red Devils, goals from Michael Owen, Paul Scholes and a deflected strike from Antonio Valencia in stoppage time earned them the point to book their place in the last 16 - but the failure to award a penalty could have been costly.

Sir Alex Ferguson has already called on UEFA to amend their rules to allow appeals in such situations, mindful of the fact Fletcher missed last season's final against Barcelona through suspension.

And the Scotland star admitted he was completely stunned by the decision.

"It is a penalty," he said.

"I have turned and the lad has just swept me off my feet. I have not tried to fall or stay on my feet or anything.

"When the referee blew his whistle I just thought "great, it is a penalty and we are back in the game". When I saw he was walking towards me with the yellow card I could not believe it.

"I am not having much luck with these cards. Hopefully it will change in the later stages."

 


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