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Wenger delves into United penalty row

Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal are in charge of their own destiny © PA Photos

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The controversial decision not to award Blackpool a penalty in their clash with Manchester United spread to Arsenal, with Gunners boss Arsene Wenger inferring that it was not a surprise that the rub of the green went Sir Alex Ferguson's side's way.

United were trailing 2-0 to a rampant Blackpool when Rafael checked Luke Varney's run in the box. To the home side's consternation referee Peter Walton failed to award a spot kick and United rallied to claim a 3-2 win.

Blackpool boss Ian Holloway was incensed by the decision, saying: "If that's not a penalty then dearie, dearie me. I think it's stonewall, but maybe I'm biased."

Wenger was made aware of the incident after his side had beaten Ipswich to reach the Carling Cup final and he joked with the assembled media about Blackpool not getting a penalty.

"I thought before the game that they would get three points tonight," Wenger said. "I have heard that at 2-0 Blackpool had a penalty turned down. But I see from your smiles that you are not surprised."

Despite trailing United in the title race. Wenger feels Arsenal are the masters of their own destiny. He said: "But for us it was a perfect night. I am convinced that our season depends on our performances, on our results and our consistency, so overall we do not have to focus on Man United or anyone else. We are a team that has taken off a while ago and is consistent now.

"It is important for us to go from strength to strength. If we are capable of doing that we have a chance. Man United will be a very tough opponent but we have a good chance if we continue going from strength to strength."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.