Sun Hei chief blasts ref after controversial goal

Sunray Cave Sun Hei slammed referee Ng Chiu-kok after their 2-0 defeat by South China in the RedMR First Division at Hong Kong Stadium yesterday.

Club president Chow Man-leung said poor refereeing had hindered the game's development for decades.

"I have been involved in Hong Kong soccer for more than 20 years and no progress has been made despite the recent government's investment," he said.

"This is because of the poor standard of referees. In fact, we requested the Football Association a couple of years ago not to use Ng as a referee for our matches but it just fell on deaf ears. He is a very nice man but never a capable referee."

The incident that angered Chow came midway into the second half with the Caroliners one goal up through Chak Ting-fung's chip from close range before the break.

South China striker Mamadou Barry had apparently fouled Sun Hei defender Jean Kilama on the left side during an attack and the linesman indicated Sun Hei should have a free kick.

As Sun Hei's players stopped and waited for the referee's whistle, Ng allowed the match to go on and second-half substitute Lo Kong-wai easily slotted home for the Caroliners.

South China convenor Steven Lo Kit-sing said poor refereeing was not uncommon in Hong Kong, but was still far from happy with the defending champions' performance.

"We had a high tempo game against Kitchee the week before, but today the standard dropped drastically," he said.

"We have to strengthen the squad and there will be new players coming in for sure, especially as we have to prepare for the AFC Cup which kicks off early next year."

Elsewhere, Sun Pegasus moved to the top of the table thanks to a 2-1 victory over Royal Southern at Mong Kok Stadium. They are on nine points, two ahead of Kitchee, who can go top if they beat Citizen at Mong Kok today.

Eastern Salon drew 1-1 against Yokohama at Tseung Kwan O Sports Ground.