PSL general manager, former top referee defends controversial Pirates penalty: 'Decision spot on!'

Premier Soccer League general manager, Ace Ncobo, has strongly defended the contentious penalty decision in the Nedbank Cup final clash between Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United.

Ncobo, a former FIFA and PSL referee who officiated at the 2010 World Cup, has defended the match official's call, stating that it was the correct decision.

READ | Orlando Pirates' penalty sparks outcry: 'Our football is going nowhere,' says Maponyane

The incident occurred in injury time of the first half, when referee Thando Ndzandzeka awarded a penalty for a handball committed by Sekhukhune's Victor Letsoalo.

Letsoalo was on the ground, and it appeared that he made contact with the ball as Thembinkosi Lorch attempted to dribble past him.

This incident has sparked debate among fans, with contrasting opinions on whether the referee's decision was justified.

Taking to his personal Twitter account, Ncobo offered a detailed explanation, referencing the laws of the game to support his belief that Ndzandzeka made the correct call.

"It is an offence if a player deliberately touches the ball with their hand/arm, for example moving the hand/arm towards the ball. When I analyze every single decision of the referee, I derive my analysis from the laws of the game. It is always my point of departure," Ncobo emphasised.

Ncobo then proceeded to break down the incident in the Nedbank Cup final, aiming to provide clarity and insights into the penalty decision.

1. A Sekhukhune player goes to ground after colliding with a teammate. The Referee correctly does not stop play because there is no question of serious injury requiring immediate medical attention. (Keep this note: an injured player takes no further part in active play).

2. A Pirates player gains