Referees Stealing The Show? 'Pirates Goal Was Offside'

Feb 26, 2025 - 11:38 am

By Soccer Laduma Writer

Referees Stealing The Show? 'Pirates Goal Was Offside'

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - FEBRUARY 22: Goodman Mosele of Orlando Pirates celebrates his winning goal with his teammates during the Betway Premiership match between Orlando Pirates and Cape Town City FC at Orlando Stadium on February 22, 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images)

Speaking with the Siya crew, the Cape Town-based former referee acknowledged the appearance of offside from television angles but urged understanding for the assistant referee's decision, as he was in line with the play.

"Yes, that was offside. The player was in front. There is no question about that. But you and me, we are talking from the angle that we saw on TV and it could be different from what the assistant referee saw in action so we must give him the benefit of the doubt. Only the VAR could have helped us on that with a clear view. But from where you and me were sitting it's offside. But even VAR will not favour everyone," Damon told Soccer Laduma.

He further highlighted that even with VAR, controversies have remained unavoidable even in European club football.

"Look in England in the Manchester City versus Liverpool game, for example it looked a clear Liverpool third goal but VAR picked up the offside and the goal was disallowed. It favours one and disadvantages the other. So whether with VAR or no VAR some decisions will not make others happy and that's why we must give the match officials the benefit of the doubt," Damon told the Siya crew.

READ: Pirates Without Riveiro, What Happened With 4th Official

Regarding another talked about moment in the same match, where Pirates midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula appeared to handle the ball in the box, Damon questioned whether it was an intentional action.

"Let's say the ball hit his hand. Was it a deliberate action? Not sure if it was a deliberate action. It was unavoidable contact so therefore it could not have been given as a handball which could have resulted into a penalty. So, not giving the penalty or the handball was the correct decision at that point, " Damon observed.

There has been a spotlight on refereeing decisions in the PSL this season, particularly with there being a call for South African football to start using VAR.