Javi Gracia Refuses to Criticise Officials Over Controversial Decisions During Draw With Southampton

​Watford manager Javi Gracia refused to criticise the officials after both his side and Southampton saw decisions go against them during ​the 1-1 draw at St. Mary's Stadium

The Hornets secured a point when Jose Holebas equalised in the 82nd minute to cancel out Manolo Gabbiadini's opener, however both sides saw pivotal decisions go against them, as Watford were denied a penalty, while the Saints had a legitimate goal disallowed. 

Despite the controversy on the south coast, Gracia admitted after the game he didn't see his side's penalty incident during real time.

Southampton FC v Watford FC - Premier League

Speaking post-match to ​Sky Sports, he said: "I prefer to speak about the penalty. It was first when there were more than 30 minutes left, it could be the second yellow card for that player, a penalty and after that, maybe the game could change.

"I didn't see it from my position, it's impossible to know what happened.

"But after asking Chalobah he told me it was clear and maybe changed the game from that moment. But I prefer to support the referee's decision, it's difficult their job."

Gracia was also asked about Charlie Austin's disallowed goal for ​Southampton, with the Spaniard replying with a wry smile: "If I didn't see the penalty...!"


The point moves ​Watf​ord up one place to seventh in the ​Premier League, level on points with Manchester United, although they're ahead of the Red Devils due to their superior goal difference. 


While both sides can feel aggrieved that major decisions went against them, Gracia believed a draw was a fair result for both teams come the final whistle.

He added: "We have won a point. It is true, we were improving and at the end of the game we created some chances to win. But I think a draw is fair and Southampton created some chances to score in the first half as well."


Source : 90min