Red Card!
The Soweto Derby always creates controversy and heated debate. This time, it surrounds Ernst Middendorp's decision to substitute Happy Mashiane for Philani Zulu. After the game, Middendorp says Mashiane was losing concentration and had to take him out. However, fans are unimpressed with this decision and feel that it was fatal.
Soccer Laduma reader Lerato Mosikare says the decision cost Chiefs the game and that he should have substituted him in the final stages of the game:
"You [Middendorp] cost us the game, the boy was magnificent. He should have went to the game at least until 80 minutes of the game."
- Blogger: Lerato Mosikare
Mncedisi Squito Dlamini seems to be convinced he was doing a good job. The Soccer Laduma reader says the decision to bench Mashiane was a blunder and that he was more effective compared to other players in the starting line-up:
"That was a blunder coach. You made a big mistake. He [Mashiane] was better than that [Khama] Billiat boy. Mxm you cost us the match, I'm sorry to tell you the truth. We were leading with a gifted penalty but you want to defend after 65 minutes of play [after putting on Willard Katsande for Leonardo Castro]. Why?"
- Blogger: Mncedisi Squito Dlamini
Not everyone was disappointed with the decision. Joseph Thabo Lekalakala says Mashiane was often exposed by Pirates' attackers and was saved from embarrassment after being substituted:
"[Thembinkosi] Lorch exposed Mashiane! Middendorp was saving him from further embarrassment."
- Blogger: Joseph Thabo Lekalakala
Both Zulu and Mashiane had a half each to prove themselves and the statistics state the following:
- Zulu won six balls and lost another six while Mashiane won one and lost six. – Zulu wins.
- Zulu won two ground duels and lost three. Mashiane lost three of them and only won one – Zulu wins.
- Mashiane lost one aerial duel and won none while Zulu won one and lost none – Mashiane wins.
- Mashiane won two tackles and Zulu won none – Mashiane wins
Who did you prefer between Mashiane and Zulu and why? Let us know what you think in the comments below!
