Boss Upset By Penalty Call

Sir Alex Ferguson was upset with referee Lee Probert for showing a yellow card to Javier Hernandez in injury time rather than awarding a penalty.

Chicharito was sent crashing inside the box under a challenge from former Red Danny Simpson but Probert opted to book the Mexican for simulation after blowing his whistle with even Simpson admitting afterwards that he felt a spot-kick had been given.

With United having to settle for a goalless draw at St James' Park, Sir Alex remains fully confident for the remainder of the Barclays Premier League campaign.

"It was a clear penalty but it's an insult because he's booked him," complained the manager.

"The referee had a good game tonight. I thought he had an excellent game but he lets himself down by booking the player. If he's not giving the penalty, fine, but to book him is an insult. I saw it myself and there was definitely contact, no doubt about that."

As regards Newcastle's appeal when Peter Lovenkrands went down inside the area, he replied: "I haven't seen that. I'd have to see it again."

Sir Alex had sympathy for Ryan Giggs, who shot inches wide from the best chance of the second half, and felt his players did well to weather some early pressure from the highly-motivated Magpies.

"It was a great chance [for Ryan] but actually the defender got a touch on it, just a fraction, to put him off a little bit," said the boss.

"In the first 20 minutes, Newcastle played really well and full marks to them. They did exceptionally well in the first 20 minutes but, the longer the game went on, once we got to half-time I was sure we'd improve.

"We did really well in the second half - the passing was terrific and we got into great positions but just didn't trouble the keeper and that was the only thing.

"It's difficult to say [overall]," said the boss. I suppose the way Newcastle fought and challenged they probably feel they deserve a point. But, apart from the first 20 minutes, we were more or less in control for the remainder of the game."