Chris Davies criticises referee performance after Birmingham's draw with Middlesbrough

Chris Davies stated that he would require "a few weeks" to fully articulate his thoughts on referee David Webb’s performance during Birmingham City’s 2-2 draw against Middlesbrough.

Webb drew the ire of the St Andrew’s crowd, particularly when Adilson Malanda netted Boro’s equaliser in the 88th minute.

James Beadle failed to hold onto Sebastian Berhalter’s free-kick before clashing with Boro substitute Kyle Joseph.

Players from Birmingham contended that Joseph kicked the ball out of Beadle’s hands, allowing Malanda to score from close range.

“The players are telling me that he had two hands on the ball,” Davies remarked.

“I haven’t seen the slowed down image of it, that would be the one to see, but I don’t know if it was. If he had two hands on the ball and it’s been missed it’s scandalous. That just can’t happen. Well it can… but it shouldn’t.”

Davies added, “It was a sickening way (to concede) from that deep set piece whipped in, one bounce. James has saved us many times and he’s had a really good season, so like I said to him, these things happen. He knows. He’s disappointed with that but he’s had a really good season and we just need to make sure that next time it’s us doing that to someone, whether it’s a winning goal or you get something.”

Birmingham feel they have not received favourable decisions from referees throughout the season. When asked for his thoughts on Webb's officiating, Davies responded, “I think I need a few weeks to think about this. I’m extremely biased when it comes to Birmingham City and I’m aware of that, but I’m not sure in any game it’s felt like we’ve had a referee that is kind to us.

“Every game we’re contesting things that I don’t think we should be contesting. You think, how on earth are we not getting a foul there or how is that happening? I know it’s a really hard job. I’ve coached for years and you kind of referee in training when you’re a coach and it’s horrible because you can never get it right.

“I don’t think we’ve had fantastic performances from referees and I don’t want to be disrespectful because it’s a hard job and they’re professionals.”

Source: Birmingham Live