Added time is ref justice for Toon: Benitez

RAFA Benitez refused to lay into his players after they conceded a last-gasp equaliser against Leeds.

However, he admitted he was baffled by the amount of stoppage time referee Chris Kavanagh added on during the crunch clash at St James’ Park.

The Spaniard was confused only three minutes of added time came after the crazy penalty incident against Burton after seven minutes of delay.

His pain was compounded by too much stoppage time last night against the Tykes.

Asking his feelings after Newcastle tossed away the lead against Garry Monk’s side, Benitez said: “I am pleased with the performance of the team, the commitment, passion and effort.

“Also the way we created chances. I am disappointed with the mistake we made at the end, 95 minutes.

“It is difficult to understand why we had a penalty the other day and it went on for seven minutes and then they gave only three minutes.

“Then tonight we had five minutes of added time.

“I don’t understand a lot of things in the last few games.

“What we have to do is be proud of the effort of the players and be disappointed we could not get the three points - but be ready for the next game.”

When asked to expand on the stoppage time issue, Benitez added: “If you analyse the last few games my understanding of the rules is they have changed a bit.”