Female referee Amy Barrett-Theron was praised for her exceptional communication with Sharks player Bongi Mbonambi, who she captained during URC's game against the Lions on Saturday, March 2nd.
The KwaZulu-Natal-based player is also a Springbok and was accused of “disrespecting” Barrett-Theron during the match.
Lions – won the match 40-10 at their home ground at the Emirates Airline Park Stadium in Johannesburg.
In the post-match interview, Bongi shifted some of the blame for the club's loss to the referee.
Female referee “Check” Bongi Bonambi
During the Sharks vs. Lions match, rugby fans accused Bongi Mbonambi of being unnecessarily rude to referee Amy Barrett-Theron. This includes claims that he walked away when she was speaking, interrupted her and questioned her decisions on the field.
In one video that went viral on social media, the 36-year-old appeared fed up with his players' behavior.
I hear her say: “Bongi, can I talk to you?” Listen, I completely respect you and who you are, and all of your players probably refereed more than I refereed at URC. I know very well that I am playing the game.
“But we're on the same field, so if you could show me the same respect that I show you, I would greatly appreciate it.”
Watch the clip below…
@supersportofficial Amy Barrett Theron lays down the law at Emirates Airline Park 🤯 #UnitedWeRise #SSRugby #OriginRound #LIOvSHA ♬ Original Sound – SuperSportTV
Fans disappointed with Sharks players
Meanwhile, rugby fans have criticized Bongi Mbonambi's condescending attitude towards female referees.
@RugbyBits: “It's no surprise that Bongi got a chance to talk. He's walked away from the referee twice and is on thin ice no matter how frustrated he is.”
@dyrmjack: “Bongi seems to illustrate the Sharks' problem. Let's shift all the blame outside. There's no introspection. It's always the referee's fault or the TMO's fault.”
@BraaiOfThrones: “Post-match interview. Poor Bongi. I've lost some respect for you. Respect the referee!”
@ndidikwe1: “Bong-ki's attitude towards Amy is terrible! I'm so disappointed in him. He walks away from her while she speaks. He objects to all her calls and says nothing on her behalf. I'll tell you. I don't like that. He wouldn't do that to a male referee. He's a Springbok. More is expected of him.”
@uShozi: “Bongi Mbonambi's attitude is disgusting. Why is he walking away like that when the referee is talking to him?”