Milford FC manager Xanti Pupuma was left frustrated by the officiating after his side’s 2-0 defeat by Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday, claiming inconsistent application of the rules had worked against the newly promoted club.
The result ended Milford’s three-match unbeaten run as the African champions moved level with Orlando Pirates at the top of the Premiership. Pupuma was particularly unhappy with the decision-making surrounding Sundowns’ opening goal and another incident in the second half.
“To be honest, it’s the first time I leave a game with a little bit of a bad taste in my mouth,” Pupuma told SuperSport. “I think some of the rules they apply to us but not to other teams. It’s a bit unfair.”
Sundowns took the lead in first-half stoppage time when Aubrey Modiba won possession on the byline before Iqraam Rayners converted the rebound after his initial effort had been saved. Pupuma believed a foul should have been given earlier in the move.
“I’m actually annoyed by that because we’ve been in that position before and those rules were applied to us,” he said. “Then when it comes, we hear it’s not applied.”
READ: Mamelodi Sundowns See Off Milford FC to Remain Level on Points with Orlando Pirates
Pupuma also questioned an incident in midfield during the second half, claiming the referee initially appeared ready to show a red card before changing his decision to yellow.
Despite his irritation, the Milford coach was encouraged by his players’ performance, particularly during the first half, and accepted responsibility for the second goal, scored by Antonio Van Wyk 15 minutes from time.
“My players fell asleep, maybe the changes caused that,” Pupuma said. “Overall, the display and how they represented themselves was quite good, especially in the first half and parts of the second half.”
Milford now have little time to dwell on the defeat, with Pupuma already turning his attention to a weekend meeting with Chippa United.
“We’re not going to look down on ourselves,” he said. “We’re going to pick ourselves up and play Chippa on the weekend.”