Marcelo has claimed that referees 'hurt Real Madrid too much' after Wednesday's 1-1 draw at Villarreal.

Coach Jose Mourinho was sent to the stands, while Sergio Ramos and Mesut Ozil were both dismissed for Los Blancos as they drew their second consecutive match.

Despite the bad night at El Madrigal, Marcelo believes that Madrid are still in a strong position to win the Primera Division title.

"Referees hurt us too much sometimes, but we must hold our heads high and move on. Every team would like to have a six-point lead," he told reporters.

"You saw what happened and how many of us were sent off. We must do our job. It was a difficult match against a complicated opponent. We took one point and must continue working hard.

"There's no pressure and any team would like to be where we are now. We're fine. We didn't win but we're in good spirits. We have to improve on things. We conceded a set piece goal, but we'll continue to work."

Madrid are now six points ahead of rivals Barcelona in the race for the title.