Yes, we should not be losing a 4-goal lead. Yes, Diaby was at fault for his reaction.
But the ref changed the game.
First of all, Barton made an aggression on Diaby. The latter's frustration was understandable.
It was a red card for Diaby but Barton should have gone too.
The two penalties were two absolute gifts from the ref. It was a disgrace.
It was amazing that the referee decided to give Nolan a yellow card for throwing Sczeczny to the ground.
It was basically the same offence as Diaby's.
By my reckoning, Newcastle should have at least one red card and no penalty.
I know we should have played better in the second half to ensure we get the three points.
But you cannot legislate for referring like that. We saw it last week against Everton for their offside goal.
For me this game is an indication of how the media manipulates referees.
I have said it for years. Refs can get influenced by tabloids. They are normal human beings like you and me. They read the papers and they hear the pundits, all trying to create a hatred of Arsenal.
The media does not want Arsenal of Arsene Wenger to win another trophy.
It is a shame as the team which tore Newcastle apart in the first half deserves trophies.
