Sunderland manager Gus Poyet was left scratching his head following referee Neil Swarbrick’s decision to award West Bromwich Albion a penalty in their 2-2 draw at The Hawthorns on Saturday.

The Black Cats took the lead after five minutes when Lee Cattermole unleashed a thunderous strike from 25 yards.

But minutes before the interval Swarbrick ruled that Victor Anichebe had been fouled by Valentin Roberge inside the box.

On first impressions there appeared only to be minimal contact.  However a penalty was awarded and Saido Berahino levelled the score from the spot — much to the disgust of Poyet who waited to confront the referee as he headed down the tunnel at half-time.

Berahino netted his, and the Baggies, second on 74 minutes before Sebastian Larsson equalised with five minutes remaining to give Poyet’s side a share of the spoils. 

After the game the Uruguayan refused to be drawn on commenting about the referees performance.  He said: “We can always talk about decisions and not talk about football.  If you ask every single manager, they want to talk about football.

“But unfortunately at the end, we’re always talking about one decision that was clear.  

“Sometimes when you need to discuss a decision from a referee, you get into trouble.

“But this one is so simple, it’s not worth it.  I’m sure he’ll watch it tonight.”