Dreams FC has issued a scathing response to Accra Lions' allegations of poor officiating during their Ghana Premier League week 16 clash. The match, which took place on Sunday at the Tuba AstroTurf Park, ended in a 1-0 victory for Dreams.
Accra Lions, who finished as runners-up in the league last season, had criticized the refereeing, suggesting that it contributed to the league's struggles with attractiveness and lack of sponsorship. They called for reforms to enhance professionalism, transparency, and sportsmanship in Ghanaian football.
However, Dreams FC countered these claims in a detailed statement, emphasizing the need to address issues through appropriate channels. "While we generally agree on the importance of integrity, professionalism, and fair play, these principles must be upheld without hypocrisy or double standards," the club stated.
Dreams highlighted that refereeing errors are a global issue, even in leagues that utilize advanced technology. They noted that officials found guilty of poor performance are penalized and urged stakeholders to submit complaints through proper procedures.
The club questioned Accra Lions' intentions, pointing out the absence of any specific complaints about officiating in the match. They also referenced Lions' silence on refereeing decisions that reportedly favored them in a recent match against Hearts of Oak.
"Football clubs worldwide benefit or suffer from officiating decisions. It is our responsibility as industry players to recognize this fact," Dreams remarked.
Dreams further accused Accra Lions of targeting them due to their association with Ghana FA President Kurt Okraku. "The conduct of some Accra Lions officials, including physical attacks on match officials, coupled with their pre- and post-match commentary, seemed calculated to poison the minds of stakeholders," the statement read.
The club defended its reputation, citing its CAF Confederation Cup semi-final achievement as evidence of its contribution to Ghanaian football. "The attempt to taint our efforts, which have brought Ghanaian football global recognition, is disingenuous and must be rejected by well-meaning stakeholders," the club noted.
Dreams attributed their narrow victory to inefficiency in converting chances, rather than any perceived bias in officiating. "We urge clubs to inspire confidence in our league rather than pursuing personal, short-sighted agendas," the statement concluded.
The response comes as Dreams FC aims to climb out of the relegation zone, following a string of poor results before the victory over Accra Lions. The win marked their first in five games, leaving them in 17th place on the league table.
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