adminSikhumbuzo Moyo Senior Sports Reporter
THIRTY-five referees will next month attend a high level Fifa elite referees’ course meant to update the match officials with the latest methodology for value enhancement to the game. The list includes five Fifa panel referees and eight assistants who are on the Fifa list while the rest are Zifa panel referees and assistants. The Fifa panel referees’ list has Norman Matemera, Ruzive Ruzive, Thabani Bamala, Kuda Majo and Bulawayo’s Tambudzayi Tawengwa. Tawengwa, though, has not been given enough game time but showed her composure and firmness when she took charge of the highly explosive Independence Trophy semifinal match between Highlanders and FC Platinum at Barbourfields Stadium.
Despite the high tempo of the game, the 29-year-old referee refused to be intimidated by the crowd and even the players. With regular game time, Tawengwa could rise to be one of the best Zimbabwean referees on the local and international scene.
The referees were selected based on age, practical performances and tests written during the May courses.
While the Zifa referees committee secretary general Tendayi Bwanya said details of the course, set to be held in Bulawayo, would be sent in due course, the referees are likely to get an update on the latest amendments to the laws of the game by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) during its 128th annual general meeting held in Switzerland in March this year. The meeting agreed to change Law Four, that deals with player equipment.
There has also been some confusion on what assistant referees must do when they raise their flag to indicate an illegal act but don’t get spotted by the centre referee with some choosing to flag down and let play continue instead of keeping their flag raised.
Referees chosen for the Fifa elite course
Fifa Referees: Norman Matemera, Ruzive Ruzive, Kuda Majo, Tambudzayi Tawengwa
Fifa assistant referees: Salani Ncube, Tapfumaneyi Mutengwa, Abraham Manda, Brighton Nyika, Edgar Rumeck, Bongani Gadzikwa, Claris Simango,Rudo Nanhanga
Zifa Panel referees: Allen Bhasvi, Pedzisayi Chadya, Darlington Shoniwa, Nomore Musundire, Philani Ncube, Thanks Nyahuye, Rugare Kusosa, Hardly Ndazi, Brighton Chimene, Bwanali Bonamali.
Reserves: Arnold Ncube, Thomas Masaa
Zifa Panel assistants: Thomas Kusosa, Oscar Bumhe, Wirimai Muroiwa, Luckson Mhara, Stella Ruvinga, Victor Kambadzo, Blessing Mpande
Reserves: Vanencio Zulu, Brilliant Sibanda, Faith Mloyi.
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