Heartland’s Boss Slams Ref

Heartland coach, Lodewijk de Kruif has allegedly branded the referee that officiated in his club’s Federation Cup game against Nasarawa United “a disgrace.”

The Dutchman accused the referee of unfairly aiding Nasarawa United to defeat his team in Wednesday’s 1-1 draw at the Sharks Stadium in Port Harcourt.

The Referee, Dandison Tolofari from Rivers State, brandished three yellow cards and one red to players of Nasarawa and just one yellow to a Heartland in the feisty contest but de Kruif insisted the arbiter was keen to see Nasarawa win.

“The Referee was a disgrace. I heard him calling Nasarawa players by their first names and asking them to dive in our penalty area.

“He ruined the game. It’s a shame,” de Kruif told SuperSport.com.

A victory would have seen Heartland qualify for the quarterfinals but de Kruif is certain his players will “finish the job” on Friday.

“It’s a pity we didn’t win (on Wednesday) but I’m sure we will finish the job in our next game,” he said.