Pitso Mosimane “Christmas Gift” Wish Ahead Of Telkom Knockout Final

Firebrand Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane is looking at adding to his growing trophy collection and is prepared to accept an early Christmas gift including a rub of the green from the man in the middle as long as he has the last laugh in the Telkom Knockout trophy against Eric Tinkler’s Maritzburg United today.

Mosimane was firing back at cynics and critics claiming the club benefited from a poor refereeing decision in a midweek league game against new boys Stellenbosch where Sundowns equalising goal from the penalty spot became one of the major talking points as most observers felt that the Bafana Bafana midfielder Themba Zwane dived to win the controversial penalty that went on to deflate the determined Cape Town side.

This comes against the backdrop of Mosimane verbally firing from all cylinders and fiery criticising match officials since the start of the season that sparked a nationwide public debate after saying that some clubs have benefited from the inconsistencies of the man in the middle with particular reference to league title rivals, Kaizer Chiefs.

Mosimane’s comments drew the ire of PSL prosecutor Nande Becker though he is yet to receive any sanctions.

“If we benefited why not‚ it’s about time. I even want an off-side or penalty on Saturday (Telkom Knockout final against Maritzburg United in Durban)‚ I will lift the trophy gladly. It is the way it is at this point and I will take it.” Mosimane said after the midweek game when quizzed for a comment.

In the opposition dug out, Maritzburg United coach Eric Tinkler is itching for a spectacle free of questionable calls from match officials.

“What you want on Saturday is just a good display across all boards, players and officials. That’s what we want to see. We want to see an entertaining final from players, spectators and referees alike. That’s what we hope for. ” said the Maritzburg coach in a pre-match conference.

Martizburg are chasing their first trophy of the PSL era having suffered heartache in 2018 after losing the Nedbank Cup final 1-0 to relegated side Free State Stars.

Sundowns lock horns against the giant killers Maritzburg at Moses Mabhida stadium in Durban. Kick off is 1800hrs.

By Gerald Dandah