Cronulla Sharks coach Shane Flanagan has apologised for his costly outburst against NRL match officials.
Flanagan and the Sharks were hit with a breach notice of $30,000 after he labelled the officiating in his team's elimination loss to North Queensland in week one of the finals as "disgraceful".
He addressed his post-match behaviour in a 1,100-word letter posted on the Sharks' website.
"I owe you an apology. I owe the game an apology. I'm sorry for the way I reacted," wrote Flanagan.
"My answers in that press conference were born out of honesty and the disappointment of a shattered dressing room."
Flanagan also made remarks on the club's website, in an interview that was sent to members and also published online.
He listed what he believed to be at least 10 refereeing errors in the loss to the Cowboys.
"In 157 games as head coach of Cronulla, I've never been hit with a breach notice by the NRL for disrespecting our referees," wrote Flanagan.
"Our club prides itself on working extremely hard in all areas of rugby league, including grassroots and particularly with match officials.
"What I need to do is learn from my mistake to ensure it doesn't happen again."
Manly was also fined $20,000 after coach Trent Barrett blamed officials for ending Manly's season in their loss to Penrith.
NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg responded with a 'line in the sand' speech, outlining the game needed to "grow up" after the separate attacks on referees.
Both the Sharks and Sea Eagles have until Tuesday to respond to their breach notices from the NRL.
