Can we lay a complaint after the match instead of a protest?

Yes. Under NSL Handbook Rule 52, a club, club official or player can lodge a complaint about alleged misconduct with the League's Chief Executive Officer:

• in writing, with a complaint fee of R30,000 plus VAT
• setting out the full facts and the Article or Rule allegedly broken
• not against a referee's or assistant referee's decision, which is final

Time limits:

• about a player's registration: within 40 days of the close of the registration period in which the player was registered (or of the registration date, if outside a period)
• anything else: within 40 days of the alleged misconduct
• in all cases, no later than 5 days after the division's last league fixture

The complainant must prove its case at the hearing. If guilt is found, sanctions are limited to a fine of up to R500,000, censure, closing a ground, costs, or a suspension. Either side or the League may appeal to the SAFA Appeal Board.