Alagić acquits referee after bizzare Sofapaka clash

Nairobi City Stars head coach Sanjin Alagić refused to lay blame on the referee following a whirlwind game in the 3-0 win over Sofapaka that witnessed three penalties and two red cards.

The game was filled with almost everything possible in a football match, three penalties, two red cards, two missed penalties and three goals. 

Speaking to Mozzart Sport, Alagić revealed that the centre referee Nyabera Libese had no influence on the result despite the action-packed match. 

“It was a very interesting match, three goals, three penalties, two red cards, a lot of chances for goals. The referee didn't have any influence on the result, we played very well and we deserved a big win 3 0, we were the better team,”

“We were dominant in attack, concentrated and focused in defence, guys played at a high level all match. We show team character and determination to win important games,” said Alagić.

A penalty was awarded in the second minute of the game when one of the Sofapaka players was judged to have handled the ball inside the box with veteran midfielder Peter Pinchez Opiyo converting the spot-kick. 

Batoto ba Mungu had their own penalty in the 28th minute when Bolton Omwenga also handled the ball inside the box but Lawrence Juma missed from the spot. 

Sofapaka goalkeeper Abdoul-Moubarak Aigba was sent for an early shower in the final minute of the first half for a dangerous foul of Nicholas Kipkirui.

Another penalty was awarded in the 52nd minute when Isaac Mitima brought down Rodgers Okumu but Anthony Muki Kimani also missed his spot-kick.

Former Kariobangi Sharks midfielder Sven Yidah was also handed his marching orders after a second bookable offence.

The Bosnian coach lauded his players who have now picked maximum points against Sofapaka, Bandari and earned a point in the 2-2 draw against Tusker.

“We played very well in all games this season, with clear playing style and it's not a coincidence that we won some games against big teams. But unfortunately, my opinion is that we deserved to have many more points for the performance which my team showed. We were a little unlucky in some games,” added the gaffer.