Hlungwani on Soweto Derby: 'That goal should not have stood!'
by Siya Ndlela · KickOffFormer FIFA referee Victor Hlungwani has set the record straight on several controversial decisions taken by match officials in the Soweto Derby clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, including a goal that should not have stood.
The historic rivals clashed in front of a sold-out FNB Stadium on Saturday in an encounter that saw three goals scored, with Pirates walking away with all three points.
Yanela Mbuthuma broke the deadlock in the first half, but Amakhosi equalised through Pule Mmodi.
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It was Tshepang Moremi who secured the winner for the hosts in a match that looked almost destined for a draw.
Chiefs ended the match with one less player on the field, after Inacio Miguel received his marching orders for two yellow cards.
Hlungwani on Soweto Derby controversial calls
Reviewing the match on SoccerZone on Monday, Hlungwani first pointed out that Mbuthuma's opener should not have stood.
"Mbuthuma is on the line, Miguel's leg is outside the line; therefore, that puts Mbuthuma in an offside position
"So Mbuthuma here is offside; this goal was not supposed to stand. But you know they say if you are in doubt, give the benefit to the attacking team, but the correct decision is offside.
Hlongwane also revealed that the Sea Robbers were fortunate to end the match with all players on the field, as midfielder Simphiwe Selepe should have been sent off after multiple fouls
"So incorrect a decision by the referee not to give a red card," Hlungwani added.
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Pirates though, will also feel hard done by the officiating on the day as Oswin Appollis' goal was unfairly ruled as an offside according to Hlungwani.
"We have Kwinika there putting Appollis onside. So this goal was scored in line with the FIFA laws of the game. A goal should have been allowed," the former referee concluded.
Related tags
Betway Premiership Kaizer Chiefs Orlando Pirates Oswin Appollis Victor Hlungwani