Bongi Mbonambi says he apologised to referee Aimee Barrett-Theron during the half-time interval of the clash between the Sharks and Lions on Saturday.
Mbonambi was involved in a tense exchange with the referee during the first half of the clash at Ellis Park.
This came after the Sharks had a try ruled correctly out with the score at 19-10 in the closing stages of the half.
When Barrett-Theron called both captains to explain the decision, Mbonambi walked away while the referee was talking. Barrett-Theron then called the Sharks captain to clear the air and ask for mutual respect.
WATCH: Ref simmers boiling Bongi
“I am an all-in type of player and sometimes my emotions get the best of me. I have full respect for officials and the role they play within our sport,” Mbonambi said in a statement issued on the Sharks social media channels on Monday afternoon.
“It was never my intention to come across as rude or difficult.
“I apologised to the referee at half time and meant absolutely no disrespect.”
The Sharks ended up losing the game 40-10, a fifth consecutive defeat in the Vodacom URC which has left John Plumtree’s side bottom of the table.
“As players we have to take a hard look at ourselves after this result,” Mbonambi said.
“We cannot blame anybody else and have a lot of work ahead of us.”
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/INPHO/Shutterstock
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
