Jerome Damon (Gallo)

Read more on:   

• jerome damon

Related Links

• Benni injured in debut clash
• Krol: We need another striker
• Sundowns boost title hopes

Johannesburg - Jerome Damon, who cracked the nod for FIFA's World Cup 30-man list of referees, says he can't wait to represent the nation with pride.

Damon will be joined by compatriot Enock Molefe, who will serve as an assistant during the tournament in South Africa.

Speaking to Football365.co.za after he made the final cut, the Cape Town-born ref admitted is very proud to have made it, amid some controversy over his performance during the recent Africa Cup of Nations in Angola.

"I'm very excited to have made it. I'm excited, because I'm going to represent South Africa as we host the tournament," he said.

"I'm humbled... I'm honoured. "I was a reserve referee during the World Cup in Germany in 2006, but never took part. But the chances are I will be an active referee this time around.

Damon came under the spotlight after Cameroon were knocked out by Egypt in the quarter-finals at AFCON after the referee wrongly awarded a third goal to Ahmed Hassan, despite the ball not crossing the line.

Indomitable Lions captain Samuel Eto'o slammed Damon after his side's 3-1 defeat, saying "the referee (Damon) helped Egypt. They did not deserve to win the game."

Damon has since admitted that he relied on one of his assistants on the day Rwanda-born Celestin Ntagungira, who was in a better position, and therefore awarded the goal at the instruction of Ntagungira, who has also made the cut.

"I think it is about FIFA acknowledging all the hard work and effort and that one (bad) decision doesn't determine one's future," added the referee.

"It is all about hard work and dedication. When God decides on something for you, no-one can change it, that's my view. I can't wait to represent my country with pride," he concluded.