MANCHESTER UNITED MAY have moved another point closer to a record-breaking 19th league title with a 0-0 draw against Newcastle last night, but manager Alex Ferguson is furious that they were denied the chance to take all three with a last-gasp penalty.

With the game entering injury time, striker Javier Hernandez went to ground in the penalty box with defender Danny Simpson in close attention. Referee Lee Probert waved away the visitors’ appeals for a spot kick, booking the United youngster for simulation instead.

After the game, Ferguson – who was serving the final game of a five-match touchline ban at St. James’ Park last night – was not afraid of telling reporters exactly how he felt.

“It was a clear penalty,” with the United boss adding “there is definitely contact, no doubt about that.”

I thought the referee had a good game tonight but he’s let himself down by booking the player. If it’s not a penalty, fine, but to book him is an insult.

Unsurprisingly, Newcastle manager Alan Pardew had a slightly different take on the situation, claiming that Hernandez “definitely dived, looking for it.”

‘I think Danny sticks a leg out which is dangerous, but he didn’t touch the guy,” Pardew said.

“I’d like to praise the referee, he was very brave there. You have to applaud his decision. United are pushing at the end, looking for a late goal and history, so there’s pressure there. My heart sank. I thought the ref would give it, which would have been hugely frustrating. ”

Simpson, formerly of Old Trafford himself, agreed with his manager.

“To be honest, I didn’t feel like I touched him,” said the right-full. “Maybe he went over too soft.”

The draw leaves Manchester United seven points clear at the top of the Premiership table with five games remaining.

Arsenal, however, could cut that gap to four when they play their game in hand against North London rivals Tottenham at White Hart Lane later on this evening.