Roma coach Jose Mourinho was furious with ref Daniele Chiffi after their 1-1 draw with Monza.
Zeki Celik was sent off late on by Chiffi and so will miss the top four clash with Inter Milan.
Mourinho said, This was the worst referee I have encountered in my entire career.
Believe me, I have dealt with many bad referees. Usually, when I talk about referees, it is because they have a direct influence on the game. In this case, I don't think that is true. But he is horrible, he makes no human connection with anyone, he has no empathy, he gives a red card to a player who slips because he is exhausted at the 96th minute."
Roma drew after Stephan El Shaarawy's opener was canceled out by Monza's Luca Caldirola.
Mourinho also said: Unfortunately, when you are tired, then it affects your concentration, your focus and your co-ordination.
We had players today who were really struggling and gave everything. People like Lorenzo Pellegrini, Mancini, Bryan Cristante, who are at the limit, but play with this pride that is part of the Roma DNA.
There are many difficulties, those who play are not fully fit or don't have the quality to play at this level yet. Our bench was non-existent today, but the lads did the maximum they could today.
I think the result is suited to the game, I might seem a little biased if I say Roma deserved to win, but I don't think it's true to say that Monza deserved a win either."