Langfield's Up In Arms Over Opener

Jan 20 2008 By Euan Mclean

RAGING Jamie Langfield blasted ref Craig Thomson for not chopping off Dundee United's first goal - and making him look stupid.

The Aberdeen keeper claims Noel Hunt admitted the ball hit his arm in the run up to the Arabs' freak 50th-minute opener.

Langfield's kick-out cannoned off the striker and into his net for an embarrassing goal.

The keeper said: "United got a break with the first goal because Hunt handled it - and he admitted that to me. He jumped with his arms raised and the ball hit his elbow.

"At first I thought the ref had blown for a free-kick - then I realised he had awarded the goal. Scott Severin and I had a word with him.

"The linesman claimed it hit Noel on his gut but had the ball hit him there from that distance I don't think it would have gone anywhere near the goal. Noel said as much to me. I said 'you're a lucky little B' and he said 'yeah I know, it's hit my elbow.'

"Obviously I'll be the scapegoat but if the ball has hit his hand what can you do?

"Fair enough I maybe should have done a bit better with the kick but it has been one of those days for us."

Dons boss Jimmy Calderwood slaughtered his side's lack of effort.

He said: "There are mirrors in the dressingroom and I was close to smashing them. My men have to look at themselves in the mirror.

"Too many good players are not performing anywhere near their capabilities. It was a woeful performance."