CHERRIES boss Andoni Iraola insists “we have to be really demanding with the referees”, but added: “There are some limits you probably cannot cross.”

Refereeing standards have come into full focus again, after Nottingham Forest took to X in unprecedented fashion, to criticise the PGMOL, the governing body for officials in the wake of Sunday’s 2-0 loss at Everton.

They were left upset after three incidents involving Toffees defender Ashley Young did not result in penalties. Forest went on to question the decision to appoint Stuart Attwell as video assistant referee for the fixture, implying Attwell was a supporter of relegation rivals Luton Town.

Asked for his take on the situation, Iraola said: “We always complain when we think the referee hasn’t gone to our side and we feel it is not fair.

“Normally I try to give my point of view and there are things we have to accept.

“As managers that is difficult, because they can cost you points or your position.

“But I think we have to be really demanding with the referees, because there is a lot in play.

“There are some limits you probably cannot cross, but with the tension and everything that is in play, sometimes it is difficult.”

Asked if he would have been upset were those three penalty claims turned down for his own side, Iraola added: “For sure I would be angry. I was angry the other day against United!

“I think it is normal. When you think the decision is not correct and it goes against you, it is difficult to accept.

“But it will always happen and it is frustrating, but you have to finish accepting it and, I know it is difficult, but to try to demand of the referees to continue improving.”