Get Updates
Get notified of breaking news, exclusive insights, and must-see stories!

Terry blames 'cynical' Barca for card haul

LONDON, Nov 1 (Reuters) Chelsea captain John Terry has accused Barcelona of ''cynical'' tactics during the 2-2 Champions League draw in the Nou Camp.

Didier Drogba's last-gasp equaliser means Chelsea need just one point to be sure of qualifying for the last 16, while holders Barca must now win both their remaining Group A games to be sure of appearing in the knockout phase.

Yesterday's latest in a long-running and often bitter rivalry between the two clubs resulted in six bookings for Chelsea and four for Barca but Terry blamed the antics of the Catalans for the rash of cards.

''It's a shame when you see world class players trying to get others booked,'' Terry told the Evening Standard.

''Maybe Barcelona feel a bit threatened by us. They were under pressure from their own fans going into the game after losing at Stamford Bridge two weeks ago.

''They are a great side but we are not too sure why they are so cynical. They were waving cards in the referee's face and it's disappointing when he falls for it.

''He gave everything their way but the lads stuck together right to the end. We showed them what we are really like as a team. With the referee against us and everyone against us, we were the better side.'' Drogba's equaliser deep in stoppage time denied Barcelona victory after former Chelsea player Eidur Gudjohnsen had put the hosts 2-1 up after 58 minutes.

Portuguese playmaker Deco had given Barca an early lead before Frank Lampard's audacious effort from an impossible angle levelled for Chelsea shortly after the break.

England midfielder Lampard said he had been subjected to a barrage of missiles from Barcelona fans after his goal.

''My goal gave me great satisfaction,'' he said. ''I knew a few things were raining down on me afterwards but none of them hit me.'' A yellow card for dissent means Lampard will miss Chelsea's next game, away to second-placed Werder Bremen on November 22 when victory for the German club would leave Barcelona in a perilous position.

Chelsea have 10 points from four games, followed by Werder with seven and Barcelona on five.

REUTERS PDS HS1913

Notifications
Settings
Clear Notifications
Notifications
Use the toggle to switch on notifications
  • Block for 8 hours
  • Block for 12 hours
  • Block for 24 hours
  • Don't block
Gender
Select your Gender
  • Male
  • Female
  • Others
Age
Select your Age Range
  • Under 18
  • 18 to 25
  • 26 to 35
  • 36 to 45
  • 45 to 55
  • 55+