Bosses bemused by penalty award

One talking point dominated the banter after United's win over Bolton - referee Rob Styles' decision to award a penalty to the Reds in the second half.

"Rob Styles has dropped a massive clanger. It was one of the worst refereeing decisions ever," said Reds legend Lou Macari, speaking on MUTV.

Bolton boss Gary Megson complained in his press conference, "It was a nonsense decision. After all the talk about technology being used to help referees, what did we come up with this summer? A campaign to show more respect to referees. How ironic."

Sir Alex Ferguson empathised with his opposite number but was naturally delighted to take the "lucky break" when Cristiano Ronaldo picked himself up after being tackled by Jloyd Samuel and scored from the spot.

"I was surprised," said Sir Alex.

"I haven't seen it again (on TV yet) but it looked to me as if the Bolton player (Samuel) got a foot on the ball.

"But Rob Styles turned down four or five for us last season, so maybe we're getting payback now. But he still owes us four!

"It was a little break for us. I still think we would have won the game okay but when the opposition are sitting in front of the penalty box and defending with the determination that Bolton showed, it's difficult to break them down. You need little breaks like that."