iDiski TV analyst Junior Khanye believes that South African football will not improve if referees are still making costly mistakes in matches.
Khanye was speaking at the back of Abongile Tom’s infamous performance in the MTN8 final between Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
The match was tied at 1-1 when Patrick Maswanganyi was fouled. Tom blew his whistle however play continued and Tshegofatso Mabasa grabbed the lead for Pirates. Soon after, Relebohile Mofokeng slotted in the winner to help the Buccaneers secure a historic third successive Wafa Wafa trophy.
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Khanye says match officials need to be honest with themselves and their decisions because they are costly not only to the psyche of players but the game overall.
“The likes of Abongile Tom should go to a mirror and look at themselves,” said Khanye on IDiski TV.
“You are killing SA football. We as a nation and I don’t care who says what, we are not going to improve. I’m not a mini-God but if we are celebrating such things or encourage it, as a country we are still far.
“I’m sure if they play the video of this game back for the referee, he will see he made a huge mistake because that goal hurt Stellenbosch players psychologically. It was towards the end of the game. With the players off the game like that, it allowed for them to concede the third goal. Goal number three was world class, one of the best goals from one of the best talents [Relebohile Mofokeng].
“One can argue that the standard of our football is nearer to some of the best, but I think that’s just only when it comes to recourses. I won’t even blame Orlando Pirates but can referees be consistent because this is heart breaking. I mean Steve Barker has worked hard, his players played so well, they were so fluid, and the game was balanced. To me at that moment it was anybody’s game but the referee allowing for play to continue at a different spot ruined everything.”
