Alan Curbishley launched a scathing attack on referee Uriah Rennie following Saturday's thrilling 2-2 draw at St James' Park.

Curbishley was in no doubt that Rennie's decision to allow James Milner's goal a minute before half-time had changed the course of the game.

The Irons boss claimed Milner's goal should have been disallowed after the winger's shot went through a clearly offside Scott Parker's legs on its way into the net.

"Newcastle scoring just before half-time changed the whole face of the game," said Curbishley.

"I am so disappointed because it was offside. The linesman admitted he had his flag up but because Scott Parker didn't touch the ball, the referee has not given it.

"You are looking to gain an advantage if you are in an offside position and standing right in front of Roy Carroll like Scott Parker was.

"He has deliberately dummied the ball so it could go into the net.

"If the linesman had kept his flag up, I don't think anyone in the ground would have complained."