Referee allegedly denies Gombe United clear-cut penalties
Palpable tension on Wednesday erupted after Gombe United FC was alleged to have been denied three clear-cut penalties at the match day 14 of the Nigeria Professional Football League, played at Pantami Stadium.
Our correspondent observed that the match which ended 1-1 had unusual military and paramilitary presence, where both officials and teams were escorted in and out of the pitch.
The goal scoring was opened by Plateau’s Jesse Jidima 23′ before Gombe United’s Yahaya 61′ equalising
However, fans exhibited their fury by pelting water, in order to register their grievances at what they termed bias officiating.
Speaking, Chief Coach of Gombe United, Bashiru Saleh described the 1-1 win as normal, adding that the visitors were lucky to have a draw.
He revealed that the game of football provided options of win, lose, or draw, stressing that they were optimistic of improved chances of winning.
Commenting on the tension Saleh said, “As you can see there were 2-3 penalties maybe it was the problem of the referee that was why. We didn’t expect it we expected to win but the game ended as draw. The match was important to us, but at least we got a draw. I wish to appeal to the fans to be patience, they should take heart.”
Speaking further on his expectations for the next match with Wikki, he added, “we hope to win there.”
