Allegri: Milan gave up too early

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri believes his players gave up too easily in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Catania.

Robinho had given the Rossoneri the lead in the 35th minute, only to see Nicolas Spolli level just before the hour mark - a goal which was enough to secure an unlikely point for Catania.

And Allegri believes his side not only lacked creativity in the final third on Saturday, but also gave up on the game too early.

"The match was very slow, but we fluffed too many balls in attack without constructing enough chances," Allegri told Sky Sport Italia.

"In the second half, Catania gave a good account of themselves but we stopped playing too early."

Allegri admits the two dropped points could cost Milan, especially with second-placed Juventus in action on Sunday night against Napoli, although he is remaining upbeat for now.

"It was important to win and we knew that a tough game awaited us because Catania are a very good team," the Italian tactician added.

"At the moment, however, we have stretched our lead by a point."

There was a moment of late controversy when a Robinho effort was cleared off the line by Giovani Marchese, even though some suspected the ball had crept over.

Nonetheless, Allegri refused to criticise the referee and insisted others should follow his example.

"It's hard to see [if the ball did cross the line], but it's not a question for the referee," Allegri explained.

"The problem is that many speak out and they should be quiet."

Milan are next in action on Tuesday when they play Barcelona in the Champions League.