Ferguson lavishes praise on referee

Inter Milan 0, Manchester united 0

SIR Alex Ferguson leapt to the defence of Spanish referee Luis Medina Cantalejo after last night’s goalless Champions League draw with Inter Milan at the San Siro.

Inter coach Jose Mourinho was distinctly unimpressed with Cantalejo’s handling of the game, seeing four of his players booked, including substitute goalkeeper Francesco Toldo. who received a yellow card for protesting by the touchline.

But Ferguson felt the official was on top of his game, having refused to let Mourinho’s mind games affect him.

“The referee was first class,” said Ferguson. “He wasn’t intimidated, which is probably what Jose wanted.”

Ferguson was ultimately disappointed with the outcome given United dominated the Serie ‘A’ leaders, especially in the first half, without getting the precious away goal they so richly deserved.

Cristiano Ronaldo had four good chances, including a last–minute free-kick that was saved by Julio Cesar, Ryan Giggs had another, while the visitors also went close on numerous other occasions.

It leaves Ferguson hoping his side can keep Inter out at Old Trafford and net a goal that would allow him to reduce the arrears in his personal duel with Jose Mourinho.

“I am disappointed we have not won the game,” admitted Ferguson, who has one win in 13 attempts against the former FC Porto and Chelsea boss.

“But it is only half time, we still have another match to play at Old Trafford where we have a great record.”