Barcelona's Lionel Messi and Xavi slam 'arrogant' La Liga referees

Unhappy after two dropped points on Saturday, the Barca pair spoke out against allegedly sub-standard match officials in Spain's top league.

Jan 29, 2012 2:15:00 PM

By Daniel Edwards

More On :  Barcelona, Villarreal
Xavi Hernandez - Barcelona
Xavi Hernandez - Barcelona
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Barcelona pair Lionel Messi and Xavi have revealed their frustration at what they consider unfair officiating during the team's 2011-12 Liga campaign, with Victor Valdes also criticizing the standard of refereeing in Spain.

The Catalan club fell further behind rival Real Madrid in the title race after being held to a 0-0 draw at Villarreal on Saturday, while Jose Mourinho's men downed Zaragoza 3-1 to open up a commanding seven point lead at the top of the table.

Commenting after the final whistle, Argentine maestro Messi led the chorus of Barca players less than happy with the matchday officials.

"Sometimes they are arrogant, and they threaten to pull out a card at the most minor provocation," the FIFA Ballon d'Or winner told reporters after the game.

And his words were echoed by Xavi, who suggested that his team had been targeted by referees.

"I get the feeling that we are being punished more than other teams," was the midfielder's interpretation of events, while goalkeeper Valdes believes the Catalans should have been awarded more spot kicks this term.

"Over the course of the season, some clear penalties have not been awarded," he said.

The draw at El Madrigal leaves Barca with 45 points after 20 games, and the club will hope to cut the deficit at the top next weekend when it faces Real Sociedad at home.

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