Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan has eased tensions in one of the NRL's most bitter rivalries with an apology to Melbourne's Test captain for his inflammatory "Referee Smith" remark.
Flanagan's inference that Storm skipper Cameron Smith had a decisive influence on the referees in their 18-13 victory over Cronulla last Thursday night dominated discussion - and the headlines - after the top-of-the-table grand final rematch.
But not only does he regret making the remark, Flanagan wishes the 50-Test hooker was playing for the Sharks.
"I shouldn't have said it," Flanagan said on Fox Sports' NRL 360.
"I respect him. He's one of the best players I've seen in that position.
"The way he controls the game, his career over a long period of time, (he's) the Australian captain.
"I was probably a little but frustrated because he played so well in that game. He set up the first two tries, (kicked) a 40-20 (and then) the kick-off at the end of the game that was really important.
"He's just a quality player. Yeah, he does talk to the referees but he does it in a good manner."
The Storm's ability to control the pace of the game with their infamous wrestling tactics has frustrated many a rival coach, but Flanagan doesn't believe the competition leaders - or Smith with his knack of challenging referees - are exploiting any loopholes.
"In that Storm structure, he's the leader of it," Flanagan said.
"He leads their line speed, we all know the wrestle and the way the Storm defend, but Cameron Smith is the master of all of it.
"The crucial thing with Cameron Smith is, when there is a big play needed and a cool head, he's the one to go to.
"He's a quality player and, as I said in that press conference, I'd love to have him in my team."
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