Class One referee J.A Amenya has publicly apologised for rejecting a ‘reasonable’ penalty claim from Hearts of Oak against Great Olympics during Sunday’s breathless derby at the Accra Sports Stadium, which ended in a goalless draw.

The official came under fire for his controversial conduct after both sides shared the spoils in the penultimate first round fixture, however, he insists he did not have a clear view of the incident because of his positioning.

“I admit I made a mistake and Ghanaians should forgive me because I didn’t take bribe to deny Hearts the points,” Amenya told Happy FM.

“After watching replays I admit I made a mistake. I think I should have awarded Hearts a penalty but my positioning made me wave on.

“It wasn’t intentional because I always approach games with a clear conscience and therefore it is not true that I am in the pocket of officials of Great Olympics or any other club for that matter,” he said.

“I went to the stadium straight from my house and no official from the home side (Olympics) took me to the stadium as it has been rumoured.”

Amenya is likely to face a four-match ban if found guilty by the Premier League Match Review Panel.