Silver Spurs goal poacher Rushan Abrahams has voiced his concern over “the putrid and scandalous officiating” in the Hollywoodbets Third Division that is killing the majority of the clubs – from top to bottom.
Abrahams, who is also the top marksman in the league with 33 goals in 32 games, pointed out that “blatant robbery” by the officials is not just hampering his ability to reach a record 40-goal mark but more importantly it is killing the beautiful game in general.
The 29-year-old former Oriental Gunners player emphasized to No Bones with Jones that it is high time to speak out and to highlight the weak and amateur performances by the officials.
“When will this stop? When will the officials get their act together?” Abrahams asked rhetorically.
“I mean, we as players and clubs work so hard on the training field and behind the scenes to put on our best performances and then the referees decide the outcome. This is not fair on clubs at all.
“Every week clubs and coaches feel aggrieved that they have been done an injustice to. It’s like the officials can do whatever they want and there are no consequences for them. They need to start taking responsibility for their (bad) actions,” he added.
Abrahams was particularly aggrieved following Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Trinitarians in Uitsig, as well as their 2-3 loss to Cape Town City at Malta Park.
“We scored four (legitimate) goals but only two were given as the officials deemed it offside,” Abrahams explained. “But the footage showed clearly that I am onside.
“The same with the game at Trinnies. I scored two goals in a minute and scored two more, but the officials flagged both goals for offside. The youngsters running the line are not clued up with the rules of the game in my view.
“They struggle to read the game like when the ball is played and then you make the through run and this is where your knowledge and discretion comes in. This is where the more senior and experienced refs come in. But they can be better if they are serious about their job,” Abrahams concluded.
Whether Abrahams breaks Darron Omaticus’ record of 36 goals or not, he will still be regarded as one of the most lethal finishers in the Third Division – no wonder clubs in higher leagues are already queuing up for his signature. Watch this space!
