Andrew: Use neutral refs

Newcastle boss Rob Andrew has called for neutral referees to control Anglo-Welsh Powergen Cup ties following his team's defeat against Llanelli.

Gareth Bowen kicked a 45-metre penalty three minutes from time to give Llanelli victory.

But Andrew insisted the effort should not have been awarded and said: "We didn't think it was a penalty. Let's have people in the middle who are not pushed into very difficult positions. It is not fair on the referees."

Super-sub Gareth Bowen ruined Jonny Wilkinson's day as Llanelli Scarlets moved within sight of a Powergen Cup semi-final place with a 22-20 win over Newcastle.

Wilkinson ran the show at Stradey Park, creating both Newcastle tries during an impressive 62-minute contribution, but Bowen's long-range penalty three minutes from time gave Llanelli a dramatic victory.

Wilkinson also added two conversions and a penalty, and produced a try-saving tackle on Llanelli hooker Aled Gravelle just when the Scarlets looked to take charge by extending their 19-13 advantage.

Ultimately though, it was all to no avail, as Bowen's strike put Llanelli top of Pool C, knowing that victory against Stradey Park visitors Sale Sharks in early December will put them through.

It was rough justice on Wilkinson, who produced a sparkling display on only his second comeback appearance after appendix surgery, yet Llanelli eventually gained the reward the dominance of their forwards deserved.