Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini was angry with Stoke City's goal in yesterday's 1-1 draw.
Peter Crouch hit a stunning long-range volley in last season's encounter but this time he appeared to benefit from the use of his hand before tucking home in the 15th minute.
Mancini said: "If you want to start with the first goal you should talk about NBA basketball, not football.
"I didn't see this from the bench but I saw all my players wanted to talk with the referee.
"The incredible thing was the referee was behind Crouch. Sometimes it can happen that the handball is not voluntary, but not today."