Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova has admitted that he failed to understand some decisions made by the referee during his side's 5-4 victory over Deportivo La Coruna in La Liga.

Jose Paradas sent off midfielder Javier Mascherano and also awarded a controversial penalty to the hosts at the Riazor on Saturday.

"I was surprised at Cesc Fabregas's caution over celebrating a goal," said Vilanova. "You (journalists) have better images to judge his performance, though.

"The penalty broke our rhythm. Before that I had never seen our team play so well in the first 20 minutes.

"I introduced Xavi [after Mascherano's dismissal] because with 10 men, I wanted more control. He was fresh and could ensure that."

Barcelona remain in pole position in La Liga with 22 points from eight matches.