REFEREE APOLOGISES

Gilewski's apology however, will not make a difference and Bernard will still miss out on Wednesday's second leg at St James' Park.

Bernard's 37th-minute challenge on Valerenga substitute Tommy Edvardsen looked to be OK and god knows what Gilewski was thinking about as he pulled out his book.

Bernard recieved his third booking in Europe this season, which gives him an automatic one-match suspension.

Bernard said after the game: "It was not a good night for us. We didn't deserve to win and were even a little bit lucky to get a draw.

"We were OK in the first half but let ourselves down after the break. A 1-0 away win would have been a good result and I hope their goal doesn't affect us too much.

"I cannot believe I was given a yellow card. The referee apologised to me after seeing it again on video, although it doesn't change anything.

"I was really disappointed about the booking but I just hope the team can keep going and get through to the next round.

"I didn't deserve the yellow card but that's how it is sometimes. I think it was a fair challenge but the referee did not see it like most people did, but at least he apologised to me."

What Do You Think? Leave A Message On Our Forum! (HERE)