Barcelona pair Xavi and Lionel Messi expressed their frustration over what they think as unfair officiating for the team’s campaign in 2011-12 Liga. Even Victor Valdes criticized the refereeing standard in Spain.

Blaugrana fell even more behind their rivals Los Blancos for the title campaign after scoring 0-0 draw on Saturday at Villarreal. Meanwhile, Jose Mourinho’s team defeated Zaragoza with a score of 3-1 to get a strong seven points lead sitting over the prime position in the table.

Argentine ace Messi gave his comments following the final match whistle. He is not happy with the officials on match-day.

Messi remarked, “Sometimes they are arrogant, and they threaten to pull out a card at the most minor provocation.”

The same words got echoed by his team mate Xavi. He suggested his side is been targeted due to referees. The midfielder said, “I get the feeling that we are being punished more than other teams.”

Also the goalkeeper Valdes feels the Catalans deserved to be awarded more number of spot-kicks in this term. He commented, “Over the course of the season, some clear penalties have not been awarded.”

This draw occurring at the El Madrigal now leaves Barcelona with having 45 points from 20 games. They would certainly be hoping to reduce the deficit from the top positing as they play next weekend against Real Sociedad on their home ground.