Punjab FC Calls on AIFF to Reassess Referee Decisions Against NEUFC and Advocates for VAR in ISL

Mohali, Jan 12 (NationPress) Punjab FC has sent a strongly-worded letter to Trevor Kettle, the Chief Refereeing Officer of AIFF, urging a review of the referees' crucial decisions that affected the outcome of their match against NorthEast United FC, which will also have implications for their next game against Mumbai City in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season.

Khaiminthang Lhungdim netted the equalizer before being sent off in injury time, as ten-man Punjab FC managed to secure a 1-1 draw against NorthEast United on Friday.

The club has raised concerns regarding the offside situation that led to NorthEast's goal, the sending off of head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis, the initial yellow card shown to Khaiminthang, and the yellow card issued to Nikhil Prabhu, which has resulted in his suspension for the match against Mumbai City.

“The offside situation that occurred prior to NorthEast's goal, alongside the decisions leading to the dismissal of coach Panagiotis Dilmperis, are the primary issues highlighted for review. The yellow card issued to Nikhil Prabhu, which has caused his suspension for the upcoming match, and the first yellow card given to Khaiminthang Lhungdim for dissent are also included in the letter,” stated the club.

The match’s closing moments were intense, with Punjab FC's manager, Panagiotis Dilmperis, being sent to the stands by the referee, and Khaiminthang Lhungdim receiving a second yellow card in injury time.

The club emphasized the urgent need for the implementation of the Virtual Assistant Referee (VAR) system in the league, which is increasingly recognized as essential for Indian football.

“Punjab FC is devoted to fair play yet is alarmed by frequent instances of dubious decisions during matches that diminish the substantial investments made by clubs. The adoption of VAR is crucial for ensuring transparency and uniformity in officiating, with similar concerns echoed by several clubs. Punjab FC urges AIFF and ISL to tackle these matters swiftly and take joint action to protect the interests of all clubs and maintain fair play,” concluded the statement.