Former South African referee Jerome Damon is confident that referee Siboniso Gasa will bounce back following his controversial call to award Kaizer Chiefs the second goal that allowed them to progress to the Nedbank Cup semifinals, defeating Stellenbosch FC 3-1 on Saturday.
The controversy began when Pule Mmodi’s goal was initially ruled out by the assistant referee due to what seemed to be a foul on Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens by Chiefs midfielder George Matlou.
However, after conferring with his assistant, the referee reversed the decision and awarded the goal to Chiefs which gave them a 2-1 lead.
Amakhosi went on to claim a 3-1 victory, with Mfundo Vilakazi scoring the third goal to secure their spot in the semi-finals.
Damon admitted referees are human too and they will make errors sometimes. He added that even some of the world’s top footballers have their off days sometimes.
“Top coaches will tell you that even their star players, like Salah, have off days. Fans and coaches accept that players will bounce back. The same applies to referees. We know there will be off days; we just hope they don’t impact the match outcome,” he said to Hollywoodbets Sports Blog.
“Unfortunately for referee Gasa, Saturday was his off day. His decision to allow a goal for Kaizer Chiefs against Stellenbosch, despite a foul on the Stellies goalkeeper, had fans baying for his blood.
“By the time Gasa reached the changing room, he likely realised his error, much like Italian referee Roberto Rosetti did in 2010 when he allowed Argentina’s Tevez goal to stand against Mexico despite an offside.
Rosetti knew, I knew (I was fourth official), and even the fridge knew, as Rosetti punched it in frustration.
Nothing could change the outcome then, and nothing can change Saturday’s outcome.
Referees don’t plan to have a bad day, but it happens. Gasa will bounce back because of his talent and quality.
Remember, when referees get it wrong, they’re human too!” he concluded.