Ince rues United opener

Bennett decision questioned by Rovers boss

Last updated: 4th October 2008

Wes Brown goal v Blackburn

Contentious United opener

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Blackburn boss Paul Ince admits he was left disappointed when Manchester United's opening goal against his side was not chalked off for a foul on goalkeeper Jason Brown.

Former United player Ince reflected his old taskmaster Sir Alex Ferguson's side deserved their 2-0 win, but was unhappy that Wes Brown's first half effort was allowed to stand.

United defender Nemanja Vidic appeared to impede Jason Brown as he stretched to challenge for Wayne Rooney's cross, but referee Steve Bennett saw no foul and the goal stood.

Contentious decision

"It was disappointing," conceded Ince.

"I am not saying we would have won but you never know. We were still in the game at 0-0 when it happened.

"We get all this advice saying the referees are fitter than they have ever been and yet he can't see Vidic put an elbow in my keeper's throat. It was a diabolical decision by the referee."

Ince was, though, willing to admit that over the course of the 90 minutes his side were second best in what was an absorbing contest at Ewood Park.

Class display

He added: "Their squad is worth £200 million, they brought on Carlos Tevez, who on his own would cost more than all my players put together, so I don't think we under-performed.

"They are a great side. They are the Premier League champions and the UEFA Champions League winners. They can replace people like Rooney with people like Tevez.

"They have some of the best players in the world. Sometimes you just have to hold your hands up and say: 'well done'."