Sharks player Bongi Mbonambi has issued a public apology to female referee Amy Barrett-Theron for his “disrespectful” behavior during a game against the Lions on Saturday, March 2nd.
The KwaZulu-Natal-based player is also a Springbok player and captained URC in the absence of Lukanyo Amu.
The Lions won the home game 40-10 at the Emirates Airline Park Stadium in Johannesburg. In the post-match interview, Bongi seemed to shift some of the blame for the club's disastrous defeat to the referee.
Bongi Mbonambi's apology – rugby fans aren't convinced
In a statement posted on the Sharks' social media pages, Bongi Mbonambi reflected on his actions towards referee Amy Barrett-Theron. He also admitted that the team's performance during the season was poor.
He said, “As players, we have to take a hard look at ourselves after this result. We can't blame others and we have a lot of tough work ahead of us.
Addressing the referee, he continued: “I'm an all-in type of player and sometimes emotions get the better of me. I have total respect for the officials and the role they play in our sport.
“It was never my intention to come across as rude or difficult. I apologized to the referee at half-time, but it was never my intention to be rude.”
Bongi's apology may have been heartfelt, but many were not convinced it was genuine
@polar_roach: “Bongi would never say or write such a thing. But it's worth a try.”
@RabbaniAnderson: “ChatGPT must have written this!”
@ruanvandenheever: “Like the rest of us, Bongi is probably seeing this for the first time.”
Look: What did the referee say to the players?
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 a 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.”