2 TOP REFS RETIRE

MBABANE – Seasoned referee Mbongeni Shongwe and assistant Phinda Ndzimandze have retired from the profession.

The two ‘men in black’ confirmed the latest developments. The two are said to have announced their retirement after the last games of the season. Shongwe’s last MTN Premier League game was between Nsingizini Hotspurs and Tambuti. Ndzimandze’s last game was a fixture between Mbabane Swallows and Manzini Sea Birds. Both officials started their refereeing career in 2000.

Chance

Shongwe said it was time to give other referees a chance to shine. “The reason I retired is that I want to groom young referees as I am passionate about refereeing,” said Shongwe. When asked to share words of wisdom with upcoming referees he said: “They should keep updating themselves with the laws of the games, respect the profession and train harder.” Meanwhile, Ndzimandze said his time was up in refereeing. “I have done my part and it’s time to give fresh blood a chance. We have served the country and it’s time to call it a day in refereeing. “However, we will continue to share our expertise and experience with the young referees,” said Ndzimandze. Shongwe and Ndzimandze were known for handling big games which include the Mbabane derby, among top fixtures. They both retire after 23 years into refereeing. Interestingly, Shongwe had a not so good 2022/23 season as he was attacked by angry Mbabane Highlanders fans on November 27, last year.

Irate

This was during a game between Highlanders and Manzini Sea Birds where the irate fans were livid by Shongwe’s decision. The experienced referee awarded Sea Birds a goal, which was scored by Sandumuzi Zwane with a ‘Hand of God.’ Clips circulating online proved that indeed the goal was scored with the assistance of a hand. The player, in an interview with the Sports Desk, also admitted that he scored via a hand. The clip which shows the referee running for dear life has since attracted over three million views from South Africa online publication, Far Post. Meanwhile, while there is no retirement age, FIFA reserves the right to require referees over the age of 45 to undergo additional technical assessments as well as specific medical examinations and fitness testing on a case-by-case basis.

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