A controversial referee decision in the 94th minute of Sebastopol Vikings’ Football Federation Victoria state league four west clash with fellow top three side Bell Park has left coach Corey Smith seething.
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Neither side had scored prior to the decision which resulted in a Bell Park penalty, and ultimately the match-winning goal.
A frustrated Smith bit his tongue when discussing the decision, which in his eyes saw the Bell Park player cause the contact with his Vikings opponent. Smith said he was confused by the call and felt a point to each team would have been a fair result, but it was not be.
“We should’ve done the business earlier, so we can’t blame the referee entirely, but it was very confusing,” Smith said.
“It was an even game and 0-0 would’ve been a fair result.
“It’s pretty deflating, but that’s football. We’ll get back to training on Tuesday and go again.”
Bell Park now closes to within one point of the ladder leading Vikings with six weeks remaining.
Smith understands the pressure will build on his side as it looks to hold onto top spot in the latter stages of the season. But he said it was crucial the side put Saturday’s result behind it and refocused ahead of its hit-out with Balmoral.
“We understand the pressure will build, but I think we’ll bounce back.”
Just three points seperate the top four teams in what is set to be an entertaining finish.
