‘We are being bullied’ says Stevenage manager

Stevenage manager Graham Westley was left furious after a last minute penalty denied his side all three points during a 1-1 draw away to Plymouth.

The Hertfordshire side led until the 98th minute when referee Kevin Johnson awarded a penalty for handball, which was calmly put away by Deane Smalley.

“We need to get a focus on it. We need to get the eyes and the ears of the powers that be looking at this and saying ‘why oh why does a small club like ours get bullied?’,” said the 46-year-old, speaking to BBC Three Counties Radio.

“Because to me it’s bullying when this type of thing is going on.”

Westley was certain his side should have had two penalties and believes Argyle defender Kelvin Mellor should have been sent off for handball.

Smalley scored his first league goal for Plymouth
Smalley scored his first league goal for Plymouth

“I’m so furious that all those decisions have gone against us that I better not say too much, because we all know in these situations that you’re obliged to keep your counsel,

Stevenage took the lead after 54 minutes when Connor Calcutt, who replaced Darius Charles at half-time, nodded in Chris Whelpdale’s cross but were denied their second win of the season.

“Was it any surprise when eight minutes of added time were played? We’re a small club and we find ourselves bemoaning these decisions.

“But really, something needs to be done to avoid this type of situation. It’s crazy that we suffer what we suffer.

“We’ve got a small squad and I can’t be taking cards like confetti. It’s just not fair and it’s just not right,

“Honestly, I feel bullied. You’ve got no power to deal with these situations,” he added.

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