Kisumu All Stars coach Charles Bruno has firmly rejected the apology offered by the referee following their National Super League match against Fortune Sacco, which ended in a contentious 3-2 defeat for his team. The match, held at Kianyaga Stadium on Saturday, October 19, was marred by complaints of poor officiating from the Kisumu side.
In a candid interview with Pepeta, Bruno expressed his frustration, stating, “They do not understand the struggles NSL teams face just to honor matches. We can do better as a country, especially with match officials. You cannot come to me at the end of the game and say sorry—what will that change?”
Bruno’s criticism was particularly directed at the center referee, whom he accused of bias. He highlighted a dubious penalty awarded to Fortune Sacco as a pivotal moment in the match, saying:
The penalty decision was unwarranted. Even their own bench was surprised by the call. The player lost the ball and slipped on his own, yet the referee pointed to the spot. It was clear he came to the match with a fixed mindset. We cannot accept this kind of officiating in football.”
Bruno’s outspoken remarks reflect the deep frustrations within the NSL regarding officiating standards, raising concerns about the integrity of the league. The Kisumu All Stars coach remains determined to advocate for better treatment and accountability for teams in the competition.
