Persija Jakarta's Goal Was 'Appreciated' By The Referee, Thomas Doll Chooses Not Many Comments

Persija Jakarta Coach, Thomas Doll. (Photo: Persija Jakarta Official Site)

JAKARTA - Persija Jakarta coach Thomas Doll showed disappointment after his team lost to RANS Nusantara FC. Doll chose not to comment on the controversy that occurred on the ground.

Persija lost 1-2 when they hosted RANS at Patriot Candrabhaga Stadium, Bekasi, on Sunday, October 22 evening WIB. This match was marked by controversy when Persija's goal was not approved by the referee.

The controversial moment occurred during the second half injury time when the Kemayoran Tigers were 1-2 behind RANS. Witan Sulaeman's hard kick made the ball hit the bar and crossed the line.

However, the ball then bounced out the goal again. The referee who was inside did not see the ball had crossed the line because it was blocked by chaos in front of the goal, judging that no goal was created.

Persija players then protested. The referee was firm in his stance without asking for input from the assistant referee who was on the sidelines. This condition immediately drew controversy because in the replay it was very clear that Witan's kick ball had entered the RANS goal.

Doll had protested directly to the referee while still on the sidelines after the game was over. But when asked again about the situation that occurred during the press conference, the coach chose to remain silent.

"I think it's the right moment not to say anything. I don't want to talk about football, about the game. That's all for today," said Thomas Doll after the game.