KAGERA Sugar head coach Melis Medo attributed his team’s 4-0 defeat to Young Africans in the Premier League to defensive mistakes and controversial refereeing decisions in their match on Saturday.

Medo’s side struggled to contain Young Africans’ relentless attacking play, conceding three goals in the second half after trailing 1-0 at the break. 

Their poor defensive display, coupled with what Medo (pictured) perceived as questionable officiating, left Kagera Sugar without answers against the reigning champions.

Having gone five matches without a win before the game, Kagera Sugar arrived at KMC Mwenge Complex low on confidence. 

Medo admitted that his team was already facing an uphill battle, and the early setback made their task even more difficult.

“The first goal - we shouldn't have conceded that. Everything was going according to plan until that moment. These are the mistakes I was talking about earlier. That goal changed the game,” Medo said after the match.

He also raised concerns about two penalties awarded to Young Africans by referee Nassoro Mwinchui, hinting at officiating inconsistencies. 

“Two unnecessary penalties. I don’t want to talk too much because if I do, I might say the wrong things. But congratulations to Young Africans.”

With the loss, Kagera Sugar remain in a precarious position, sitting second from bottom in the league table, six points away from safety. 

Their season continues to be a struggle, with just 14 games left to turn things around.

The team now shifts its focus to another crucial fixture, a tough away match against fourth-placed Singida Black Stars on Friday.

Medo and his players will need a strong response if they are to keep their survival hopes alive in the Premier League.