Club Protests At Change In Draw

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30487, 8 July 1964, Page 18

Club Protests At Change In Draw

The changing of the senior Rugby League competition draw for July 18, the day that Canterbury plays Wellington at Wellington, was the subject of a strong protest by the Linwood Club received at a meeting of the management committee of the Canterbury Rugby League. "Although there are seven other clubs in the competition it appears only one is being considered, Under the proposed change Papanui is being asked to play the team which Hornby apparently wishes to be relieved of on that day,” said the club’s letter.

The alteration to the draw was made last week when it was found that the co-leaders, Hornby and Christchurch, were drawn to play on July 18. It was thought it would be best for these teams to meet when at full strength so that the best team could go forward to the Rothman’s tournament. More Importance Linwood’s letter added that it seemed that more importance was being attached to the Rothman's tournament, which had been in operation only for three years, than to the senior championship. “Although this club's championship aspirations

have been dashed other teams are affected by the change in the draw, particularly Papanui which on previous representative selection was likely to be affected as much, or more than Hornby. “This club feels that when the draw is published ahead it should be followed. The committee decided to take na action on the letter. Mr E. G. Blazey said that the committee had made its decision and should keep to it. “It would be stupid for us to stop our best team from taking part in the Rothman’s tournament.

Mr R. L. Huston said there was no intention of favouring any one club—that should be made clear to the Linwood club and any other club that might protest. A full-strength Canterbury will play Wellington at Wellington on July 18, the meeting decided.

Asked for suggestions as to the composition of the team, Mr E. G. Blazey said that if it was a representative fixture the strongest team available had to be chosen.

Fifteen players would be chosen for the team and Mr D. C. Wilson would be the manager and Mr E. Butts 'the coach, it was decided.