Ref reaction 'unacceptable' - Ismael

Blackburn skipper Todd Cantwell appeals to the referee during his team's defeat at Charlton Athletic

Blackburn manager Valerien Ismael was unhappy with referee Anthony Backhouse's reaction to his captain Todd Cantwell's penalty appeal in the defeat at Charlton.

Cantwell's cross struck the arm of Lloyd Jones but Mr Backhouse turned down shouts for a spot-kick from Cantwell and his teammates.

Ismael told BBC Radio Lancashire: "We had some good moments at the beginning but we were not consistent and the performance was not that good, I don't know why.

"We conceded a goal at a setpiece but the good thing was that it was only one goal at half time.

"Then came the moment we were looking at and I think it's terrible the referee didn't see that [handball by Jones], because it can be a game-changer.

"What's embarrassing is that our captain is allowed to speak to the referee and he has winked at him and laughed at him. This is unacceptable. He made a mistake, but at least treat our player properly and not laugh at our players.

"It's been a tough week but we have a quick turnaround with a game on Tuesday."