Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena remains adamant that his team was denied a victory in their 2-2 draw against Moroka Swallows in the DStv Premiership match at Dobsonville Stadium on Monday night.

Sundowns appeared comfortable after taking a two-goal lead in the first half through Teboho Mokoena and Marcelo Allende. However, their advantage vanished as Moroka Swallows clawed their way back into the game with goals from Augustine Mahlonoko and Gabadinho Mhango.

Mokwena vehemently disputes both goals, claiming they were offside. The coach, a former Orlando Pirates manager, was visibly frustrated with referee Jelly Chavani after the match, particularly regarding the second goal where Mhango (who was offside) received the ball from a Devine Lunga clearance.

While Mhango wasn’t actively interfering with play, the offside position when the ball originated from his opponent remains a point of contention.

“This is the third time this season that a decision has gone against Sundowns because of VAR!,” Mokwena said. “And yet, there’s no mention of it in the media. Both the first and second goals were offside. I don’t need to explain myself; I’ve studied the laws of the game extensively.”

“My coaching licenses aren’t for fun,” he continued. “I went to coaching school. You can ask me anything about the laws of the game; I know them well. It’s one of the most crucial things to understand before coaching.”

Mokwena expressed his deep concern about the officiating standards in the PSL, highlighting the negative impact on the global perception of South African football.

“There are two key issues here,” Mokwena stated. “Firstly, what does this do for South African football? People worldwide watch every game of Sundowns.”

“I have people in Europe who follow every Sundowns match. What kind of image do they perceive of South African football after witnessing such incidents?”

“The game is bigger than me; it will continue long after me. But what about the image and reputation of South African football? Every week, coaches are forced to complain about the officiating.”

Mokwena referenced other coaches who have voiced their frustrations with officiating, expressing sympathy for teams struggling to avoid relegation.

“Ernst Middendorp complained, and I feel sorry for him and AmaZulu,” Mokwena said. “The same goes for Polokwane City, Cape Town Spurs, and teams at the bottom of the table.”

“We took points from some of these teams, and now, points are being awarded to Swallows by the referees. I’m not the priority; the game and other clubs are. Teams at the bottom are fighting for survival.”

“Imagine Richards Bay getting relegated by a single point,” he added. “What will be said if their coach (Vusi Vilakazi) loses his job due to relegation? The media will report on the firing of the coach without considering the circumstances. It’s not right.”

Picture courtesy of Mamelodi Sundowns