Super Netball: Giants demand answers over Kristiana Manu’a send off

Опубликованно 20.08.2020 09:57

Umpires first suspended Manu’a for two minutes in the third quarter, for a late challenge on Lightning shooter Cara Koenen.

Then, with just nine minutes to go, the Giants vice-captain was penalised for rough play and suspended for the rest of the match.

After reviewing the tape, Fitzgerald said she is still bamboozled by the decisions.

“We obviously are very, very disappointed that that is the action they took. Upon reflection, it seems difficult to understand why such drastic action was taken,” Fitzgerald said.

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“We will definitely seek clarification, but certainly not (make) a complaint, I understand that once a game is over the score stands, that’s the result and it’s time to move on.”

The Giants had a dominant six-point lead when Manu’a was sent in the fourth quarter.

But without the goal defence, Lightning were able to claw their way back and won 58-57.

Fitzgerald said the officiating left her side devastated.

“We were shattered, it was a game we could have won, it was a game we desperately needed to win,” Fitzgerald said.

“Kris was distraught and that obviously affects her teammates as well.”

Manu’a is the first player to be sent off in Super Netball history.

Giants defender Kristiana Manu’a was controversially sent off not once, but twice, in their clash against the Sunshine Coast Lightning. Picture: Getty Images.

Veteran commentator Sue Gaudion called the decision “disgraceful” and Australian Diamonds legend Liz Ellis argued that Manu‘a was simply contesting the ball.

“I think it’s disgraceful, it shouldn’t have happened, I believe Kristiana Manu’a’s intent was for the ball only and it was the same in the moment before” Gaudion said during the broadcast.

“I feel like Andrea Booth, the umpire on the far side, got caught up in the moment, felt she had to make an example of Manu’a, when really it was a challenge for the ball” Ellis said.

Fans and players took to social media to vent their frustration and confusion.

Gee Whiz. Wow. Can umpires take a tactical time out?

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