It was always expected that tensions would flare in the ‘league decider’ between Rygate LFA’s log leader South End and second-placed Hazendal United.
But what wasn’t expected was the shambolic display of the experienced referee Jerome Maregele who took centre stage with a couple of blunders in the 0-0 stalemate between the top two teams.
The most controversial decision came late in the second half when South End clearly deserved a penalty for a clumsy foul on Taariq Brown.
Needless to say, Maregele was also not too far from the action when Brown’s foot was taken out under him on the right side of the penalty area.
At one stage it looked like Maregele was going to point to the penalty spot, instead, he surprisingly booked Brown for simulation which left the South End technical team and their fans furious.
There were a couple of other decisions that raised eyebrows but nothing as dubious as the legitimate penalty claim the man in the middle turned down.
In essence, Maregele actually soured a good and exciting spectacle on a chilly evening where both teams had chances to walk away with maximum points.
One cannot blame South End should they feel aggrieved, but credit to them they did not really make a meal of the situation.
South End’s Niezaam “Tommy” Miller has again shown he needs anger management counseling as his behaviour on the field was just as bad as Maregele’s officiating – also not a good example for the youngsters and football fans who braved the cold weather in support of their respective teams.
With the spoils shared, the battle for supremacy at Rygate LFA continues with South End still in the driving seat and in charge of their own destiny with their five-point lead intact.
Maximum points in their two remaining games against Everton Spurs and D&G Orient will surely put the pressure back on Hazendal who faces Bridgetown FC, Oriental Gunners, Salt River Celtic and Junction Rovers in their remaining fixtures.
