'I have full respect for officials': Bongi says emotions got the better of him in loss to Lions

After being reprimanded by referee Aimee Barrett-Theron in their 40-10 loss to the Lions in a United Rugby Championship (URC) clash on Saturday, Sharks skipper Bongi Mbonambi said he had "full respect" for match officials.

In a statement released by the Sharks on social media, Mbonambi, who disagreed with a decision that went against his team and was seen walking away as Barrett-Theron gave her reasoning, said he "meant absolutely no disrespect" at the time. 

"I am an all-in type of player, and sometimes my emotions get the better of me. I have full respect for officials and the role they play in our sport," a part of the statement read.

"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."

With the Sharks only registering one win this season, which sees them firmly planted at the bottom of the URC table, Mbonambi acknowledged that the players were the ones responsible for trying to turn things around.

"As players, we have to take a long, hard look at ourselves after this result. We cannot blame anyone else, and we have a lot of hard work ahead of us."

FULL STATEMENT