Exactly four weeks after suffering a horrific leg injury under a Bongani Zungu tackle, Bernard Parker has broken his silence, saying the former’s actions were ‘ built on emotions’.
The TS Galaxy forward had his leg broken in a rather reckless tackle by Bongani Zungu of Mamelodi Sundowns during their Carling Knockout Cup first round tie.
Zungu was sent off as TS Galaxy went on to win the match 5-4 on penalties after a 2-2 stalemate in extra-time.
And what shocked Parker was Zungu’s reaction as he protested the immediate red card, as if he had done nothing wrong.
WHAT BERNARD PARKER SAID
The 37-year-old former Kaizer Chiefs forward said he is not angry with Zungu despite his lack of remorse.
“I think it was built up emotions from him and looking at the two goals scored by Galaxy and how he was involved.
“I think there was ill intent in the Zungu tackle. When the incident happened, it was building up to it. We are all human and things like that happen, I am not angry,” he said.
OTHER SOCCER NEWS:Galaxy send message of support to Parker after horror injury, Mokwena stands by Zungu
Interestingly, Parker said he got an apology from Bongani Zungu via Instagram.
“I got an apology from Zungu via Instagram and I told him that I have forgiven him,” he added.
“Sundowns also sent me flowers and a card and Rulani Mokwena also told Mr Petersen that he tried to call me and sent me his regards.”
Parker is currently recovering with high hopes of playing again, as he is still in the books of TS Galaxy.
TS Galaxy boss Tim Sukazi also revealed that Parker’s surgery costed over R200 000 as his leg needed quick attention.