Empoli coach Maurizio Sarri claimed that referee Gianpaolo Calvarese shied away from giving his side a penalty against AC Milan during their 2-2 draw on Tuesday night at the Stadio Carlo Castellani.
Daniele Bonera appeared to clearly handle the ball with the score at 2-1 in Empoli’s favour but Calvarese waved away the remonstrations much to the chagrin of Sarri, who was subsequently sent to the stands at half-time for continuing his protests.
“I said to the referee that he was afraid to reward a penalty against a great team. I should not have said it, but he could also have greater understanding,” Sarri told Sky Sport Italia.
But he was left to lament his side’s missed chances at 2-0 before Milan fought back for the draw.
“Take 2-1 in the final stages of the first half, we had another opportunity for Tavano, if that went in, we would have had the win. If we kept the pace of the first 30 minutes, we wouldn’t be speaking of a draw,” Sarri said.
The draw leaves Empoli still searching for their first victory of the season and will travel to Chievo on Sunday.
