David Lemi apologises for celebration

David Lemi has apologised for the manner of his celebrations after Wasps' Guinness Premiership victory at Bath last Saturday.

The Samoan international wing scored a try in Wasps' 17-15 win, with the visitors then surviving 20 minutes of second-half injury time and relentless Bath pressure to emerge triumphant.

Wasps also had their England and Lions prop Tim Payne sent off during the fraught Recreation Ground finale.

Lemi, who is now sidelined for up to six weeks because of a wrist injury, said: "I really regret any gestures that may have caused any supporters or players offence at the game on Saturday.

"The game was extremely tense and very emotional for me personally. I lost myself in the emotion of the win at the final whistle.

"It was not my intention to offend or make any gesture that would upset anyone in the ground, and I would like to apologise for my actions. The game was very tight and passionate, and I lost myself in that moment.

"I have let myself and my team-mates down, and I would like to offer my sincere apology for this. The game of rugby is one I love, and I would never wish to offend any spectator or player through my actions."

Wasps rugby director Tony Hanks revealed that Lemi's formal apology followed an internal review at the club yesterday.

"Having been treated for an injury sustained in the game, which now rules him out for six weeks, this was the first opportunity to look into the game and David was extremely upset that he may have caused anyone any offence at The Rec," said Hanks.

"Actions of this nature are extremely out of character for David, and although this game was hugely intense and full of drama in the final stages, we do not excuse any action that could bring the game into disrepute or cause any player or spectator any offence.

"We are all aware of the nature of the sport and how easy it can be to lose yourself in the highs and lows of the game, but for David and for London Wasps it is not the way we want to express ourselves.

"We therefore hope this apology is received in good faith by all."

Lemi, who joined Wasps from Bristol earlier this summer, is now set to miss four Premiership games and his new club's opening two European Challenge Cup pool matches.