City Stars goalkeeper blasts referees for "disgusting" officiating after defeat to Muhoroni Youth

City Stars goalkeeper blasts referees for "disgusting" officiating after defeat to Muhoroni Youth

Festus Chuma 20:00 - 07.04.2024

Nairobi City Stars goalkeeper criticizes officiating after a controversial 2-0 defeat, voicing concerns over multiple aspects of the match environment.

Nairobi City Stars goalkeeper Edwin Mukolwe has launched a scathing critique of the refereeing standards following his team's contentious 2-0 defeat at the hands of Muhoroni Youth FC this past Saturday.

The match played at Muhoroni Stadium ended in controversy with City Stars alleging they were unjustly denied three goals.

Mukolwe's frustration was palpable as he recounted the events of the game.

 "So yesterday, my team Nairobi City Stars scored three beautiful goals but ended up losing the game 2-0. Not to mention how our media team were barred from recording the game," he lamented on his Facebook page.

The official scoreline was shaped by a penalty converted by Muhoroni's Green Jackson and a stellar free-kick from Stephen Bulugu. 

Yet, the post-match discussions were dominated by Mukolwe's allegations against the match officials, led by center referee Emmanuel Ochieng, with Joyce Njeri and David Adero as assistant referees and Paul Omeno as the reserve referee. 

 "Very disappointed with the quality of refereeing from the first decision to the last. We want to compete at the highest levels, yet we can't streamline our league. Biased refereeing, sound system right behind the away team bench, hostile fans (this is understandable), poor quality of the playing surface, and no media coverage!," Mukolwe detailed, painting a picture of an environment far from conducive to fair play.

The custodian critique extended beyond just the officiating to encompass the overall treatment of teams and players within the league

"It was pathetic! Very disgusting! We need to set standards if we are to improve the quality of our football! For players, football is the source of livelihood. I am sure I speak for so many players when I say our welfare needs to be taken seriously. We put in a lot to prepare for games, only for things outside football to derail our pursuit! I won't be surprised if they invalidate all these because there is no evidence," Mukolwe added.

Despite the setback, Nairobi City Stars remain in a competitive position in the league, currently 6th on the standings with 39 points from 25 matches.

Muhoroni Stadium is poised to host another match between the hosts and Shabana FC next weekend.

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