Ref apologizes to Atletico

Atletico Madrid defender Mariano Pernia revealed that his side received an apology from assistant referee who awarded a shock penalty during their one-all draw against Liverpool in Champions League Group D on Tuesday.

It was adjudged that Pernia had fouled the Reds' skipper Steven Gerrard whilst colliding in the air in the box in the 94th minute of the game. Atletico were in the lead since the first half though after a stunning goal by their skipper Maxi Rodriquez.

Gerrard took the spot-kick without making a mistake, something which was incredibly disappointed for the Spaniards.

Pernia however insisted that he did nothing wrong and the assistant referee admitted his costly error.

"It was a very ugly decision by the linesman, but we all make mistakes, us players too, and I think the linesman made one here," he said.

"In nobody's eyes was that a penalty. We're very hurt to have drawn the game in what was practically the final minute.

"It was an inexistent foul, Gerrard threw himself on top of me. It couldn't have been more clear.

"The linesman said 'sorry, sorry' after the penalty was given. He had time to correct it and go back on it but he didn't."

Pernia's sentiments were echoed buy Atleti's skipper Maxi, whose 37th minute goal looked to secure his side a place in the next round.

"It makes you so angry to draw like that," he said.

"We'd been planning for this all week and then it's a shame that all gets thrown way in the final action of the game, and to be honest I think the referee made a mistake."