I DIDN’T DESERVE A RED CARD, MAPEZA DEFENDS HIMSELF
. . . Mpofu backs Warriors interim coach
NORMAN Mapeza claims he did not do anything wrong to deserve an ejection from the bench during Tuesday’s 1-3 defeat against Kenya in the final of a Four-Nations tournament in Malawi.
Mapeza was sent off early in the second half, when the teams were deadlocked 1-1, after invading the pitch to protest.
It got worse for the Warriors in the 56th minute when defender, Teenage Hadebe, was also red carded and, within five minutes, the Kenyans had taken the lead.
Although Kenya were also reduced to 10 men in the 73rd minute, they were strong enough to secure victory with an 87th minute goal from hattrick hero, Michael Olunga.
While conceding that he might have overreacted, Mapeza still believed he had not crossed the line to warrant a red card as Kenyan coaches were also on the field of play.
“We had a few shouts for penalties and when I asked the referee what transpired, that’s what triggered everything.
“From that commotion, maybe I overreacted, but I don’t think I did anything wrong. Their coaches were also on the pitch.”
Former Warriors assistant coach, Mandla “Lulu” Mpofu, has backed Mapeza.
“With all the necessary support, I think Mapeza can help us achieve (success). He is a veteran coach who has played at bigger stages that include the European Champions League.
“He is a great disciplinarian who can handle any player whether he or she is based in Europe. I have worked with him before, he is a great coach who wants things done in a professional manner.”
Mpofu has tipped Daniel Msendami to scale greater heights.
“I think he has been improving with each
passing game. He is the talk of Botswana and I strongly believe he doesn’t deserve to play in Botswana now.
“He should just go far and continue to improve his game. I do not doubt his capabilities. There is quality in him,” said Mpofu.