Hunt Slams ‘Embarrassing’ Penalty Decision In Stellenbosch’s Nedbank Cup Exit
Stellenbosch coach Gavin Hunt has labelled the decision not to award his side a penalty against Golden Arrows in their Nedbank Cup Round of 16 defeat on Saturday as “embarrassing”.
The controversial moment occurred in the second half when Arrows captain Ayanda Jiyane appeared to handle Langelihle Phili’s cross inside the penalty area, with his arm extended away from his body. However, referee Michael Mosemeng waved play on, much to Hunt’s frustration on the bench.
Minutes later, Arrows compounded Stellenbosch’s misery when Angelo Van Rooi found the back of the net to secure victory.
When asked whether he had received an explanation from the referee regarding the penalty decision, Hunt responded reluctantly.
“I can’t answer that question, sorry,” said Hunt with a wry smile. “What do you want me to say? It’s embarrassing — very embarrassing.”
Hunt Calls for VAR in South Africa
Hunt was further asked whether clubs and coaches should receive clearer explanations from officials instead of repeated controversial decisions without accountability.
“If the referee can say sorry — not to me — but I don’t think they are that sorry. Are they?” he said.
“These decisions affect livelihoods, don’t they?
“Video Assistant Referee (VAR) has to come in, especially here in South Africa. The rest of the world has it — South Africa needs it. Every week there are mistakes.
“Arrows had a decision against Kaizer Chiefs and they lost, and maybe this week it’s our turn. Every week there are controversial decisions.
“This one is not even close. And even with the red card [to Thabo Moloisane] — you can look at that. If he goes in with his studs, yes, it’s a red card. But he went in with his laces and swept the ball; it’s not a red card. But it is what it is.
“They go home and they are not affected — that’s how it goes.”
Hunt and his side will now shift focus to the Betway Premiership, where they face Kaizer Chiefs — Hunt’s former club — at FNB Stadium on Tuesday.
