VIDEO: 'I don't think 62,000 paid to see a 15 versus 14 game' - Ackermann

Lions headcoach Johann Ackermann has responded to the 38th minute Kwagga Smith red card that marred the Super Rugby Final in Ellis Park.

The Crusaders ran out 25 – 17 victors over the Lions, despite a late second half fight back.

“I don’t think 62,000 paid to see a 15 versus 14”, Ackerman said when quizzed on the incident by reporters.

“The player can get disciplined afterwards, and I’ll stand by that, especially if it’s not out of the law in the sense that it’s a kick to the face or a punch or dirty play.

“I can’t say too much … I have to respect what the officials say. One must take into account that if a player jumps in the air going forward, where does he go if somebody touches his legs.

“I suppose the New Zealand people are happy now that Jaco is a good ref, because last week he wasn’t a good ref.”