By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Adding to the aftermath of the game between FC Barcelona and Panathinaikos Aktor in Palau Blaugrana on Wednesday, Joan Penarroya was adamant about the referees not making an impact on the outcome, in contrast to his counterpart Ergin Ataman blasting the refs.
“He is doing his job, he is very good in this,” mentioned the 55-year-old head coach of Barca.
“I don’t know what game he has seen,” he wondered about the play-caller of the visitors, “I think we are equal in fouls. I would like to see the second half because I have seen actions by some of his players, those he says did not protect, who surely should not have finished the game. He also said that stars have to be protected and I totally agree, Kevin Punter could have been protected by the referees.”
“That is not a criticism,” clarified Penarroya, “We played a basketball game, a Euroleague game. He has this opinion, but I think that the refereeing did not have any influence on the result. I think we deserved to win. I think we were better and in the press conference everyone plays the role they have to play to prepare for the next games.”
Defeating the defending champions in Round 21 of the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season, his side improved to 12-9 and forced the Greens to 13-8.
In Round 22, Barcelona stays at home to face Anadolu Efes and Panathinaikos travels to Vitoria-Gasteiz for a clash with Baskonia.