Everton manager Roberto Martinez slams penalty decision in defeat to Stoke
Tuesday 29 December 2015 11:47, UK
Everton manager Roberto Martinez says the decision to award Stoke a stoppage-time penalty was "sickening" as his side slipped to a 4-3 defeat at Goodison Park.
With the game heading for a 3-3 draw, Stoke forward Marko Arnautovic went down under the challenge of Everton defender John Stones, with referee Mark Clattenburg pointing to the spot.
Arnautovic picked himself and scored what proved to be the winning goal, leaving Martinez to bemoan what he called an "unacceptable" decision from Clattenburg.
"It is sickening because it's a real late action of the game and as a referee you have to be sure, you need to be 100 per cent sure," Martinez told Sky Sports.
"He didn't give it straight away, he had to think or had to get some confirmation or help from some from probably other eyes that are further away from the action.
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"It's unacceptable really to see that decision being so wrong and so decisive. Losing the game after an error from the referee is painful."
Martinez was risking censure with his comments about Clattenburg, but Sky sources understand the Football Association has listened to his interview and will take no action.
Xherdan Shaqiri twice put Stoke ahead during the first-half, but Romelu Lukaku cancelled out both strikes with two goals of his own.
Gerard Deulofeu put the hosts in front for the first time in the match with less than 20 minutes remaining, but Joselu levelled up proceedings once more before Arnautovic won it for the visitors.
As well as lamenting Clattenburg's decision, Martinez feels his young side needed to show maturity in order to see the game out.
"The first-half we were very sloppy in possession and gave the ball away too cheaply and allowed Stoke to become a threat on the counter," Martinez added.
"Their second goal came against the run of play and it was a real reward for them. The second-half was completely different, we adjusted slightly and imposed ourselves.
"We are a young team, but we must learn how to manage games and how to go through those periods a little bit better.
"It is quite tough to take, to lose and not get anything out of the game because of a bad call from the referee."
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