GORDON LIGHTFOOT | Sport
BAD FOR THE GAME
The referees that officiate A-League football matches were hauled into an impromptu meeting this morning, after the newly-established New Zealand club, Auckland FC won their sixth match of the season – which is all of their matches.
Football Australia Chairman Anter Isaac took a deep breath before explaining what a successful New Zealand club could potentially do to his legacy.
“Look, it’s great to see a new club doing well. Great to see more support for the game in New Zealand. The Phoenix have been fantastic for the A-League in all their years playing,” he said positively.
“But six wins in a row for a new club is ridiculous, okay? This is the A-League! Nobody wants to see a bloody New Zealand team win it.
“It’s bad for the game, and more importantly, it’s bad for the advertisers.”
While not explicitly telling his referees to start calling more fouls against Auckland and giving the Aussie teams a little helping hand, the Chairman did remind them where their pay cheques come from.
“But anyway, just telling you how things are from management’s perspective. And in unrelated news, your pay reviews are coming up in four months’ time, and there could be a few pleasant surprises for those of you who are performing well,” said Isaac casually.
Auckland FC declined an interview, but in a statement said they were happy with the refereeing so far.
More to come.
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