Carlisle City went down 3-1 at Boro Rangers in a controversial Northern League Division One game.
Manager Jim Nichols said it was the most frustrating experience he has been through after 20 years in senior football.
“Their defender punched away a corner, as clear as can be but the referee doesn’t blow.
“The linesman on our side says it was a penalty but doesn’t flag. A minute or so later the referee is saying he made a big mistake.
“We were 1-0 ahead at the time and potentially the penalty could have doubled that lead and they would probably be down to ten men.
“That would have made a big difference. We will put a report in, but nothing changes. Sometimes, after incidents like this you wonder why you do it.
“You work hard in training, are looking forward to the game and then this kind of thing happens.”
With a strong wind behind them Jordan Palmer had given City the lead on 19 minutes with a good header and they continued to dominate the first half.
A second goal would have been invaluable but didn’t come and the chance to double the lead from the penalty spot was denied them.
Stuart Rose levelled on 56 minutes as it became backs against the wall because of the conditions and Daniel Lofts put Rangers ahead on 77 minutes.
A goal from Callum Hickman in the fourth minute of time only added to City’s hurt.
