SAFA Limpopo: Follow protocol for ref disputes | Review

LIMPOPO – SAFA Limpopo ABC Motsepe League has called on teams to follow proper channels when disputing refereeing decisions, after the controversial match between Vondwe XI Bullets and Mpheni Defenders at Makonde Stadium last Saturday.

The match, which ended prematurely, was marked by a heated disagreement over a penalty decision awarded to Bullets in the opening minutes.

The assistant referee’s call sparked outrage from Defenders, who accused the officials of bias and refused to continue play unless the penalty was overturned. After consultations involving the referees and the match commissioner, the decision was apparently changed to a goal kick, leading to further tension on the pitch. The disruption left fans disappointed as the match could not be completed.

Safa Vhembe League secretary Refilwe Khosa said teams must address such grievances through official league channels. “If teams are not satisfied with refereeing decisions, they must submit written reports to the league administrators,” said Khosa. She confirmed that the league is awaiting reports from both teams and match officials to determine the next steps.

Vondwe XI Bullets chairperson Phathutshedzo Siebe maintained that the penalty decision was valid, citing a clear handball in the box. He criticised the reaction from Defenders’ players and officials, describing their refusal to play as undisciplined. Meanwhile, Defenders’ chairperson Vhutshilo Phuravhathu expressed disappointment with the officiating, alleging bias and poor management of the game.

Khosa urged all teams to respect league processes and avoid disruptions during matches. The league will review the submitted reports to make a final ruling on the incident.