Vidic rues penalty denial

Serbian stopper felt side deserved a spot-kick against Australia

By James Dall   Last updated: 24th June 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Vidic rues penalty denial

Vidic: Disappointed

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Nemanja Vidic felt Serbia should have been awarded a crucial penalty against Australia on Wednesday.

The Serbians exited the World Cup after their 2-1 loss to Australia, with their numerous missed chances proving costly as a draw would have ultimately sent them through to the last 16.

Vidic, though, felt particularly aggrieved at a decision made by referee Jorge Larrionda not to point to the spot in the dying stages.

The Manchester United defender saw a header from a corner hit the arm of midfielder Tim Cahill, but Larrionda waved away appeals.

Vidic said: "I am disappointed with some decisions.

"I think my reaction after that decision showed what I think and I need to choose my words carefully.

"We had a great first half but I was scared after those chances were missed - that is football, small details can determine the winner.

Best display

"This is the best performance for us in this World Cup but we take nothing from that.

"We expected to go into the second round and we are going home disappointed."

He added: "We didn't under-estimate Australia - we showed in the first half that we are strong and played some good football.

"But they are a good team, especially in the air.

"In the second half they had the courage to attack and put more pressure on us - the result was two goals."