Escom United were a frustrated lot on Saturday at Civo Stadium when in the 89th minute they were denied what looked like a clear.
Assistant referee Afana Cheyo raised the flag for offside after referee Johns Makuwira had allowed Dosa Joseph’s goal. Makuwira, later changed this mind and ruled the goal offside.
His decision infuriated Escom coach Charles Manda, who accosted the officiating team after the final whistle, but police were at hand to calm the situation.
“This is always the situation when playing in Lilongwe, the referees are so biased. It is so frustrating, but what can we do,†said assistant coach MacDonald Mtetemera in a post-match interview.
The disallowed goal cast a shadow on the outcome of the game as even Civo players failed to celebrate after the final whistle.
“It was a good game and both teams played good football. I cannot comment much on the referee and the disallowed goal. For me, I am glad that we have won. It is important we keep on winning,†said Civo coach Alex Masanjala.
Civo had taken the lead 40 minutes into the game. Welani Nyirenda scored what might be the easiest goal of his career, when he pounced on a fumble by Escom keeper Thom Kalavina to put Civo ahead.
Masanjala expressed joy at the performance of his new signings Wyson Nkana and Alick Lihuhu.
“They have already gelled well with their teammates. Wyson was so solid in defence. He is going to be an asset to us. It is unfortunate that Noel Mkandawire did not play. He has been wonderful in training, but Escom did not clear him for this game,†said Masanjala.
The Civo coach had a set back after defender Patience Kalumo sustained a torn lip. He had to be stitched after the match.
