Kewell has the last word

Last updated : 05 January 2004 By Adam Bryant
The Aussie forward was brought down by Hugo Rodrigues, but the third division defender claimed he had not touched Kewell.

"I've got nothing to be ashamed about," said Kewell. "If you look at the situation, he's touched me. If a defender touches a striker in the box it's a penalty.

"I don't know what he has to complain about. He came up to me during the game and asked why I dived. I said to him 'Did you touch me?' And he said yes.

"He got his foot stuck, his knee stopped my movement, stopped me going towards goal and denied me a shot at goal.

"At the end of the day that is a penalty in my book. I wouldn't dive. It's not fair on the opposition. Some strikers are known for doing that but I'd never consider trying to con the referee.

"I know he touched me. It was the referee's decision to award the penalty and he was well placed to do so. I don't know why he's making such a big fuss about it now."