Lal Questions Fiji FA’s Ability to Review Referees

Football pundit Nilesh Lal has questioned the Fiji FA’s ability to properly assess referees, following its statement on reviewing a controversial Extra Premier League match.

Lal says the Fiji Football Association (FFA) does not have the systems in place to effectively evaluate refereeing performances.

“The fact of the matter is that Fiji FA does not have any effective system for evaluating the performances of match officials and rectifying issues,” Lal said.

He added that referees in Fiji continue to operate with “total impunity,” with little improvement in officiating standards.

Lal also raised concerns about the Fiji FA’s ability to carry out what it described as a “comprehensive review” of the recent Rewa vs Labasa match.

“The question is how they can conduct a so-called comprehensive review of the match without video evidence,” he said.

He further criticised the lack of proper match filming, saying Fiji football is “still living in the dark ages” despite resources being spent elsewhere.

Meanwhile, Fiji FA has warned that abusive or threatening comments directed at match officials will not be tolerated.

In its statement, the association strongly condemned abuse aimed at referee Kavitesh Behari, particularly on social media, and said such behaviour undermines the integrity of the game.

FFA said any instances involving abusive language or threats of violence will be referred to the relevant authorities.

The association also confirmed that its Referees Committee will undertake a review of the match and take appropriate action if any breaches are identified.