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Howard Webb: This is my verdict on Manchester United's penalty appeal against Arsenal
FORMER referee Howard Webb has had his say on Manchester United's penalty appeal in yesterday's 1-1 draw with Arsenal.
Mourinho on penalty appeal: I don't want to talk about it
Jose Mourinho was left fuming on the touchline when referee Andre Marriner didn't point to the spot after Nacho Monreal appeared to bring Antonio Valencia down in the box.
And Webb, who retired in 2014 after 21 years as an official, was surprised to see Marriner wave away United's protests.
Jose Mourinho shocked by Andre Marriner's penalty decision
Nacho Monreal appeared to take Antonio Valencia down in the box
Howard Webb speaks to Manchester United star Wayne Rooney
“I think on balance it was a penalty,” Webb told BT Sport. “Was it a cast-iron, stone wall penalty? No.
“I saw it in slow-motion and the contact was less significant than I first thought.
“But do I think Monreal in his attempt to get the ball impeded him? Yes I do. I think it’s a penalty and I’m surprised Andre didn’t give it.
Howard Webb surprised by Andre Marriner's penalty decision
“I don’t think there would have been much reaction if he had and I’m sure Wenger would have screaming for it down the other end.”
Manchester United went on to take the lead at Old Trafford through Juan Mata but Arsenal substitute Olivier Giroud grabbed an equaliser for the visitors on 89 minutes.
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