A Kaizer Chiefs icon believes that referees like Abongile Tom are killing South African football.
iDiski TV analyst Junior Khanye emphasises that SA soccer will only flourish if referees eliminate their costly mistakes. His comments come in light of Tom’s controversial performance during the MTN8 final between Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Khanye believes that poor officiating directly affects the quality of the game, undermining the hard work of players and coaches alike.
The match stood at a tense 1-1 when Patrick Maswanganyi was fouled. Instead of calling the foul, Tom allowed play to continue, resulting in Tshegofatso Mabasa scoring for the Pirates. Shortly after, Relebohile Mofokeng secured the victory with a stunning goal, helping the Buccaneers clinch their third successive Wafa Wafa trophy. Khanye argues that such decisions not only rob teams of rightful victories but also diminish the integrity of the sport.
Reflections and accountability
Khanye urged referees like Tom to “go to a mirror and look at themselves.” He stated, as quoted by iDiski Times. “You are killing SA football,” capturing the frustration felt by many in the football community. This lack of accountability among match officials can have far-reaching effects, as Khanye highlights the psychological toll these errors can take on players. “I’m sure if they play the video of this game back for the referee, he will see he made a huge mistake,” he remarked. Such errors not only impact the game’s outcome but can also shake the confidence of players and teams involved.
By neglecting their responsibilities, referees inadvertently influence the morale of the teams. Khanye notes that a match could have gone either way until the referee’s controversial call shifted the balance. “Steve Barker has worked hard; his players played so well,” he said, indicating that the match was competitive and could have ended differently with fair officiating. The inconsistency in refereeing, he argues, undermines the overall growth of South African football.
Upholding fair play with rules
According to Law 13, free kicks must occur at the exact location of the foul, ensuring fairness in match restarts. If referees enforce these rules diligently, they can significantly alter outcomes for teams like Stellenbosch FC. Khanye’s call for accountability and consistency is a plea not just for the players but for the entire football community. As South African football strives for excellence, improved officiating will be critical in unlocking the sport’s ultimate potential.
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