Ferguson Critical Of Referee Webb

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson accused referee Howard Webb of favouring Arsenal in United's 2-2 draw.

The Gunners twice came from behind to salvage a draw at home on Saturday.

"I think Howard Webb has a great chance to be the top referee but today was a big game for him and, at times, he favoured Arsenal," Ferguson told MUTV.

"Their second goal came from him not giving a free-kick for a foul on Louis Saha on the far side. It should've been a foul for us."

However, Ferguson stated it was hard for referees not to be influenced by hostile home crowds.

"It is very difficult for the referee," he added. "On our bench, we were getting terrible abuse from people two or three feet away from us.

"There is a lack of security. It is absolutely disgraceful the abuse you and your staff take. All sorts of things are been shouted and screamed at you and there is an absolute danger here."

Ferguson had thought his side had done enough to win the match when Cristiano Ronaldo put them 2-1 up with eight minutes left.

But William Gallas, whose own goal had given United a first-half lead before a Cesc Fabregas goal, volleyed an injury-time equaliser for the Gunners.