… by Pelumi Abiara
Over the last week of football in the inaugural NLO Cup in Kano State, fans have been treated to exciting displays by participating Northern teams. From spectacular individual brilliances to edge-of-the seat team performances as eight teams battle for the solitary final spot of the tournament
Of this tremendously memorable football artistry, standing tall and distinguished are the match officials, who have solidly defended and protected the repute of our world, the game of football. Their performances have not just been fair and equitable as the laws of the games stipulate; they have also been outstanding in game management, further aiding the beautiful scenery of the matches that have been played.
For playing in their comfort zone, their base, with their teeming supports, one would think Kano teams — at least half of the participating teams — would automatically have the edge over others in the preparatory ego-contest; however, the referees have provided a level playing field for all teams to strut their stuffs.
All the teams have been rewarded for their efforts on turf, but no one has been offered any undue support. The referees have stood tall and are accountable for ensuring the most deserving team conquers the 12 games that have already been prosecuted. Not even the passionate home support of the Kano teams has deterred them. This is how a 5-week-old Abuja-based Green Lock FC claimed a maximum of nine points in the group featuring two of Kano’s finest NLO teams.
With the right support and motivation, Nigerian football referees are genuine and reliable custodians of the laws of the game, and they have made the entire Nigerian football community proud with their performance in Kano since November 24th. Long may fair officiating reign in grassroots football.
