Bernard Parker has finally responded after being let go by TS Galaxy, offering his explanation of the events surrounding the club's disappointing defeat to Kruger United.

The former coach's departure followed back-to-back 1-0 losses, including the Mpumalanga Derby against Kruger United and another defeat to Chippa United.

The decision has attracted attention among South African football supporters, particularly after chairman Tim Sukazi reportedly described the Kruger United performance as “the worst match ever”.

Speaking on Robert Marawa's show, Parker addressed the criticism and explained how the match changed after TS Galaxy were reduced to 10 players.

Rather than accepting the description of the performance without qualification, he pointed to the dismissal, the missed opportunity in front of goal and the goal his team conceded. His response has now placed the circumstances of the defeat at the centre of the discussion surrounding his exit.

“Coming to being the worst game ever — getting a red card in the beginning of the second half, and then you cannot play your own game anymore.

It's normal, it's football. I believe I did get the decisions right. It's just that we missed the last chance and we conceded.”

The match incident Parker highlighted was significant. TS Galaxy defender Veluyeke Zulu received a red card in the 50th minute, leaving the team with 10 men for more than 40 minutes.

Kruger United eventually scored in the 73rd minute, and Galaxy were unable to recover before the final whistle. Parker's explanation suggests that the numerical disadvantage and the failure to take a key opportunity were important factors in his assessment of the result.

However, the chairman's reaction indicates that the defeat carried serious consequences for the coaching staff. Sukazi reportedly labelled the Kruger United encounter “the worst match ever” during an appearance on Ikwekwezi FM.

He also told Parker to go and obtain his coaching badges, adding another dimension to the public discussion surrounding the former coach's departure.

For Parker, the challenge now is to move forward after a difficult spell at the club. For TS Galaxy, attention has turned to finding a replacement capable of improving results and restoring confidence.

Reports indicate that the club is closing in on a European coach who holds a UEFA Pro Licence, with the visa process reportedly being finalised.

An official appointment, however, should be distinguished from reports about the club's recruitment plans.

The episode has raised questions about the pressure faced by coaches in South African football and how much responsibility should be placed on a manager when a match is affected by a red card.

Do you agree with Bernard Parker's explanation, or do you believe Tim Sukazi was right to make the decision after two consecutive defeats? Share your views in the comments and explain who you think was most responsible for TS Galaxy's disappointing results.

Source:https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2113157932086894966