Shearer should have had penalty, admits ref

Disgruntled Newcastle headed home from Old Trafford tonight after being told by referee Paul Durkin that his mistake cost them their chance of victory over Manchester United.

Durkin earned the admiration of Magpies boss Bobby Robson and opposite number Alex Ferguson in admitting he had blundered by failing to give the visitors a first-half spot-kick when Tim Howard floored Alan Shearer as they chased Gary Neville’s under-hit back pass during the goalless draw.