Moyes blasts officials as big decisions not going United’s way

Manchester United boss David Moyes took a veiled cut at referee Andre Marriner and his officials after last night’s semi-final first leg defeat at the Stadium of Light.

Marriner’s decision to give a penalty after Sunderland substitute Adam Johnson lured Tom Cleverley into a ill-judged challenge on the edge of the box irked Moyes.

Marriner gave the decision after consulting his assistant, though it appeared initial contact was just outside the box.

“We are having to play the opposition and the officials at this moment... maybe I’ve got to understand that’s what happens at Man United,” said the Scotsman last night.

However the former Everton manager acknowledged that United’s fans are getting restless as they are not used to such erratic form.

“They’ve probably never seen it as bad as this for a long time,” admitted Moyes. Sunderland captain John O’Shea is hoping the Black Cats can summon their cup spirit to help beat their Premier League relegation battle.

The Mackems lie rock bottom of the Premier League after 20 games, four points from safety.

Ireland defender O’Shea believes that if they can bring their form last night to the league, they will escape the drop.

“The players know we have plenty of quality, it’s just making sure we use it at the right time,” said the Waterford man.

“Whatever it is we need to bring it into the league very quickly. On one off occasions we seem to be doing it quite well against the big teams, we need to make sure we do that in the league. We know we’re good enough.

“We’ve seen good teams get relegated before — so we have to counter that very quickly and get some points on the board. A win like that is a massive boost.

O’Shea was delighted to play alongside debutant defender Marcos Alonso, who has signed from Fiorentina Alonso on loan for the remainder of the season.

“I’ve only known him for a few days but he’s been very bubbly in the dressing room and you saw the quality he has tonight playing against Valencia, he did outstanding,” added O’Shea.

“He probably had a few cramps in his legs but it’s well deserved.”

Alonso was thrilled after playing in his part in handing United their third successive defeat for the first time since 2001.

But, like O’Shea, the former Bolton man was quick to turn his attention to Saturday’s crucial clash at relegation rivals Fulham.

“I’m really happy because the team needed this win,” said the Spaniard.

“The last games they had really good performances but the score wasn’t the one they wanted.

“We got it today and now we don’t have time to think about it.

“We just have to focus on the game against Fulham on Saturday and keep going.”