Crusaders boss Colin Mansbridge has officially apologised on behalf of his organisation for the foul language used by head coach Rob Penney about a 1News reporter yesterday.
After a media conference at the franchise headquarters, Penney’s comments to a colleague in reference to reporter Thomas Mead was picked up by microphones.
Penney described Mead as a “disgrace” and a “c**t” after a line of questioning he apparently disagreed with.
Mansbridge’s apology was sent to media this morning.
“A line of questioning was undertaken from a reporter present concerning Rob Penney’s future as Crusaders head coach,” Mansbridge said.
“After the media conference had concluded, a private comment to a colleague was inadvertently recorded on third-party microphones, and Rob has since apologised to me for what was said.
“On behalf of the Crusaders organisation, I apologise for the comments he made regarding the reporter. I spoke to the reporter today and he has accepted our apology.”
Penney, who succeeded Scott Robertson in the role this season, has overseen a two-win, 10-loss record by the defending champions who, with two rounds remaining, are unlikely to make the playoffs.
Eight of the 12 teams in the competition progress to the finals. The Crusaders are 10th. Their most recent defeat came against the Brumbies in Canberra at the weekend when, level on points, they conceded a penalty try after the final siren.
They play the top-of-the-table Blues in Christchurch on Saturday night.
Among Mead’s questioning was an inquiry about whether Penney, who is on a two-year contract, expected to be in the role next year. “Absolutely,” was the reply.
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