Ace Ncobo Clarifies Referees’ ‘Crossbones’ Gesture

In a recent match between Orlando Pirates and the Kaizer Chiefs, referee Abongile Tom made a ‘crossbones’ gesture that was interpreted by some fans as a sign of support for the Pirates. However, former FIFA official Ace Ncobo has clarified the significance of the gesture and put an end to the controversy. In this article, we will explore what happened during the game and what Ncobo had to say about it.

The Incident

In the 43rd minute of the first half, there was a collision between Bandile Shandu and Abongile Tom. Tom immediately signaled to the medical team on the sidelines that he was experiencing symptoms and needed attention. In the 44th minute of the game, Tom made a ‘crossbones’ gesture by crossing his arms in front of his chest.

The Controversy

After the game, some fans claimed that the referee’s gesture was a sign of support for the Orlando Pirates, who eventually won the game. They took screenshots of the moment and shared them on social media, fueling the controversy. However, Ace Ncobo, who is now the general manager of the PSL, has explained the true meaning behind the gesture.

Ace Ncobo’s Explanation

Ncobo clarified that the ‘crossbones’ gesture was a sign that Tom was experiencing symptoms related to a concussion. “The gesture was meant to indicate that he was feeling dizzy and that he needed attention from the medical team,” Ncobo said in an interview with Extra Time. He went on to say that Tom did the right thing by alerting the medical team and that the gesture had nothing to do with the outcome of the game.

The Importance of Referee Safety

The incident highlights the importance of the safety of referees in football. Concussions are a serious issue in the sport, and it is crucial that referees receive prompt medical attention if they experience any symptoms. The fact that Tom was able to signal to the medical team and receive prompt attention is a testament to the safety protocols in place in modern football.

In conclusion, the ‘crossbones’ gesture made by referee Abongile Tom during the recent Soweto Derby was not a sign of support for the Orlando Pirates, but rather an indication that he was experiencing symptoms related to a concussion. Ace Ncobo’s explanation puts an end to the controversy surrounding the incident and highlights the importance of the safety of referees in football.