Real Maldive had an exceptional month in October regarding their Premier League performance, and they maintained that momentum into November. The match was characterised by its intensity, with numerous fouls committed by both teams, making it feel like a derby or a final of the SFF Cup. The players battled fiercely for every ball throughout the 90 minutes, showcasing their commitment to the cause.
In the 18th minute, Josip Ravignia put Real Maldive ahead with a well-placed shot, making the score 0-1. This came after a fairly equal battle where both sides had opportunities but struggled to convert. Following the goal, Foresters increased their pressure, trying to find an equaliser but were unable to score before halftime, which ended with Real Maldive leading 0-1.
The second half saw Foresters dominating possession and creating several chances. Their persistence paid off in the 76th minute when Hermane Rakotovao found the net, equalising the score at 1-1. Just ten minutes later, however, Marlon Rose, who had come off the bench, scored for Real Maldive, making it 1-2. This late goal shifted the momentum back in favour of Real Maldive.
After Marlon Rose‘s goal, the action moved predominantly into Real Maldive‘s half, but Foresters could not find another goal. The match concluded with a final score of 1-2, marking a significant victory for Real Maldive and extending Coach Don Anacoura‘s winning streak to three matches. Notably, Jocelyn Fenosoa was well-marked throughout the game, but he provided a crucial assist for the second goal.
After the final whistle, both technical teams expressed their frustration towards the match officials. The Foresters bench was particularly vocal, feeling that some decisions had gone against them. In our recent polling, 78% of the community believes that Foresters‘ disallowed goal should have stood, as it appeared their player was not offside when Brandon Labrosse made the pass. However, the angle of the replays did not provide clarity on the decision.
It is essential to recognise the challenging nature of officiating, especially in a match as intense as this one. The referees and linesmen do their best to make fair calls, and although they faced criticism, they deserve support in their roles. Additionally, it is worth noting that the lighting conditions at the stadium were subpar, with only two of the four light poles operational. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensuring that match officials can perform their duties effectively in the future.
