NPFL: Monday Odigie blames Bendel Insurance loss on poor officiating at Sporting Lagos

By Saheed Afolabi

Bendel Insurance head coach, Monday Odigie has expressed disappointment over the controversial decisions of the centre referee in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) game against Sporting Lagos on Sunday.

A 56th minute goal from Tochukwu Micheal separated both sides in the pulsating encounter at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

And Odigie was far from being impressed by the quality of officiating in Lagos and blamed the Benin Arsenal loss on referee calls.

“We saw it, officiating in Lagos, no one is talking about it. AFCON, Where are Nigeria’s referees? I rest my case,” the manager told media.

“When distractions start coming, inexperienced players can hardly hold their own. We could see what led to the goal. Inconsistent calls were being made, players were being kicked, referee was not blowing, this would hinder positive football in Nigeria.

“What I stand for is not win at all cost, it is play to improve the quality of football in the league. Let the players become quality and valuable in Nigeria.”

With 30 points from 20 games, Bendel Insurance are occupy the eight position on the log.

The Benin Arsenal will clash with Enyimba International at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Saturday, February 24.