The instructor is the key-what is the rest of the story.
With all the instructing you have done over the decades, you would probably agree that if one "wants" to one can FAIL just about any pilot during any simulator session.
Slow to rotate past Vr, FAIL. 11 knots fast/slow after multiple altitude, airspeed and commanded configuration changes-"sorry Charlie"-FAIL. During a Non-precision approach, I say you started your descent prior to being established on the final approach-yes you did I am the instructor and I say so-you FAIL. It goes on and on.
In a simulator without approved visuals capable of representing circle to land to FAIL a pilot for the performance described is weak in my opinion. Especially
If the rest of the ride was good.
This situation is another reason your instructors need to have their own ego in check.