MANZINI – Manzini Wanderers Nyanga ‘Crooks’ Hlophe has dropped a bombshell following his side’s demoralising 3-1 defeat to Ubombo Sugar.
Hlophe claims he now understands why Mbabane Highlanders fans previously turned on match officials. Speaking at a tense Mavuso Sports Centre after referee Sanele Ntimane allowed a highly-controversial third goal to stand, a fuming Hlophe did not mince his words regarding the standard of refereeing in the country.
“We lost a game that was ours for the taking. I will be blunt: That goal was a blatant offside. I no longer blame the Highlanders fans for reacting the way they did against officials. The officiating is beyond questionable, and urgent intervention is required to raise the standard. As it stands, these decisions are merely inciting stadium violence.” Hlophe was referring to the recent chaos at Mavuso Sports Centre, where fans linked to Highlanders caused chaos, which led to the abandonment of a cup game against Nsingizini Hotspurs.
Despite the setback, Hlophe remained defiant regarding the club’s precarious position in the relegation dogfight. “We will fight until the final whistle of the season. Survival is still possible, but we must start being clinical and converting the chances we create.”
Manzini Wanderers National Supporters Committee (NSC) Chairman Colo Dlamini echoed his coach’s frustrations, suggesting a pattern of bias against the club.
“The referees are pushing our supporters to breaking point. It is clear we were robbed on Sunday; the third goal was a clear breach of the offside trap. Authorities must intervene before things spiral out of control. Even in our fixture against Rangers, we were on the receiving end of several dubious calls.”
In contrast, Ubombo Sugar Caretaker Coach Van-Rooyen Magagula took a more diplomatic stance, refusing to be drawn into the officiating row.
“It was a gruelling encounter, but I am delighted we showed the character to come back and secure the points. Perhaps luck was on our side today. I cannot question the officials; their word is final.”
The match reached boiling point deep in stoppage time when Neliso ‘Shaka’ Myeni slotted home the controversial third. The goal saw the Wanderers faithful baying for blood, forcing a heavy police escort for the match officials at the final whistle.
*Full article available on Pressreader*
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