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Malesela issues apology to referee

Cape Town - Chippa United coach Dan Malesela has admitted he was wrong to criticise the match officials for sending off Rhulani Manzini against Bloemfontein Celtic.

The Chippa United striker was red carded after only 25 minutes at the Dr Molemela Stadium on Sunday after an altercation and a possible head butt on Celtic's Alfred Ndengane.

Phunya Sele Sele went on to win the match 2-1.

Having watched the television footage, Malesela has admitted that the comments he made to the media after the match querying the decision made by referee Khulasande Qongqo were out of line.

"I would like to apologise for my comments with regard to the sending off. I questioned the official's judgment before I could see the footage," he told the club's website.

"I have had an opportunity to review the footage of the game and it is clear that the officials were spot on, regarding the decision to send off the player.

"I regret the comments made to the media after the game, and on behalf of Chippa United Football Club I send my unreserved apology to the match officials, football followers and the Premier Soccer League."

The Chilli Boys boss added that the club will further investigate the incident and that Manzinbi could find himself in further trouble.

"As the Football Club, as part of our values we do not tolerate unsporting behavior on the pitch.

"We are quite aware of our standing and role in the society and we will give the matter the attention it deserves," added Malesela.

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