Palmeiras want match annulled after ref uses TV replay to change call

SAO PAULO (AP) - Palmeiras want the 1-2 loss to Internacional in the Brazilian league annulled because the referee allegedly used television images to disallow the team's second-half equaliser.

Palmeiras have officially filed a protest with Brazil's sports tribunal and requested a rematch because of the referee's decision to change his call in Saturday's match. The tribunal's decision is expected by next week.

Argentina striker Hernan Barcos used his hand to score the 62nd-minute equaliser, but the goal initially stood as neither the referee nor the linesmen or behind-the-net official saw what happened. The referee pointed to the centre circle and his linesmen ran there, signalling a goal. Internacional players protested and the referee reversed his decision nearly five minutes later after talking to his assistants.

A TV reporter said a match delegate and fourth official asked the media if the replays showed the handball. The reporter's comments will be used by Palmeiras, although club directors admit it will be difficult to have the match reversed unless the referee confesses he received outside information.