Referees favour Messi & Ronaldo, claims Simeone

Posted Tuesday, November 13, 2012 by Goal.com

The Atletico Madrid boss believes that referees are too hasty in giving decisions to the Clasico duo, and feels his forward should receive more protection

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone believes that officials handle decisions regarding Barcelona's Lionel Messi and Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo differently to those concerning his forward Radamel Falcao.

The Argentine trainer has suggested that officials tend to give the duo preferential treatment, but urged them to be more cautious next time they see the Colombian felled.

"I don't like to talk about [referees], but I do occasionally, and it's clear that if you touch Messi and Ronaldo, it's a foul, but when it happens to Falcao, then nothing is given," the Argentine told reporters.

"I hope that in the future they are more alert."

The Argentine went on to reflect on Sunday's 2-0 win over Getafe, and admitted that his side still have a lot to work on in order to meet their goals for the season.

"We looked for the fastest way to the win and it was very effective. In the second half the team were not good.

"In the first half we had the situation we wanted on the pitch. I think it was very good. In the second [half] not so much, so I'm very happy with the result."

Atletico Madrid currently sit second in La Liga, only three points behind table-toppers Barcelona.