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| Photograph by Zweli Ndlhovu |
I was listening to a passenger in a taxi bemoaning what
a certain referees in the PSL was officiating the game.
This got me thinking of amateur referees and how games
are judged there. Usually the referee would be a guy that came to support one
of the teams or a passer-by that is not in a rush.
The chances of the games being refereed fair depended on
how well the middle man knew both teams and how intimidated he is by them. Yes,
the most unfair games are the ones where the middle man is intimidated. You see
him officiating from the corner flag so that he has a quick escape in case they
are unhappy.
And with just cause! We all have stories of coaches,
fans and even players attacking the middle man for decision they do not agree
with. Go to any tournament, there is always the incident where the crowd was
baying for the referee’s blood.
Guess the PSL referees should be thankful that they are
protected.
