Flower hit St Helens’ Lance Hohaia to the ground and punched him again in the face while prone to become the first player sent-off in a Super League title decider.
Hohaia says he doesn’t hold a grudge against Flower after his own grand final was ended through injury in the same incident before his side went on to win 14-6.
Flower made his comments in a statement on the Wigan club website.
“I firstly offer my apologies to Lance. I have full respect for him, and have never gone onto a rugby field to injure a fellow player.
“I’d also like to say sorry to my team-mates, our fans and the Wigan Club. I know I’ve let them down like never before and accept I’ll have to live with this for the rest of my career.
“Finally, I’m sorry to the sport of Rugby League. It was a big night and I know I’ve taken the attention away from what was a special event.”
Hohaia’s only appearance after the incident was made when he came on after full-time to celebrate victory with his team-mates and departing coach Nathan Brown.
“I don’t hold any grudges against Ben,” Hohaia said.
“In the heat of the moment, people do some things they regret. I’ve done some silly things on the field myself.
“He’s probably disappointed in himself for not being able to play a part in the game as well.”
Flower faces a disciplinary tribunal on Tuesday.
Image via Getty
