Times Of Swaziland: APPEAL ON KWAKHE’S RED CARD: ‘BIRDS SEEK REVERSAL

APPEAL ON KWAKHE’S RED CARD: ‘BIRDS SEEK REVERSAL
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Sanele Jele on 24/02/2024 06:56:00


MBABANE - Mbabane Swallows have lodged an appeal for the reversal of the red
card handed to Kwakhe Thwala last Sunday.
Thwala was shown a red card by FIFA-accredited referee Thulani Sibandze
following a skirmish with Nsingizini Hotspurs’ Meshack Lushaba. This incident
occurred during week 17 of the MTN Premier League match between Swallows and
Nsingizini, which ultimately ended in a 1-all draw. Lushaba executed a tackle on
Thwala, and Thwala retaliated, leading to a scuffle between the two players.
The scuffle escalated as officials from both teams attempted to separate them,
resulting in a fight breaking out among the team officials at King Sobhuza II
Memorial Stadium. Shortly after the match, a letter arrived at the Premier
League of Eswatini (PLE). The letter, sent by Swallows as the aggrieved party,
expressed their dissatisfaction with the referee’s decision during the game.
It served as an appeal to reconsider and overturn the red card given on Tfwala.
Upon receiving the letter, the Premier League, acknowledging its contents,
promptly responded. They expressed regret and informed the sender that,
presently, they lacked the authority to review or alter decisions made by
referees on the field of play. This news undoubtedly disappointed those who
hoped for a reversal of the red card.
However, in the spirit of fair play and consideration for the concerns raised,
the PLE assured Swallows that they would forward the appeal to the Eswatini
Football Association (EFA) Referees Committee. This step was taken with the hope
that the committee could offer further guidance and insights to address the
matter at hand. The PLE also appealed for understanding and patience during this
process, emphasising that the red card would remain in effect until a decision
was reached.
Swallows raised these concerns ahead of their game against Royal Leopard,
scheduled for this afternoon at Mkhuzweni Technical Centre. All eyes are now on
the EFA Referees Committee, as they hold the responsibility of providing a fair
and impartial assessment of the situation. The outcome of this appeal will not
only impact Tfwala and Swallows but will also serve as a precedent for future
instances where decisions in the game are contested.