Rough Rugby

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31091, 21 June 1966, Page 14

Rough Rugby

The first three matches of the British Isles Rugby team’s tour of New Zealand produced deplorable displays of ill-temper and rough play. At Invercargill and Timaru, our Rugby writer reported that the Lions were provoked, and retaliated. At Dunedin on Saturday they started the trouble, apparently—possibly in the belief that, if New Zealand Rugby permits such violence, there is wisdom in being first to the punch. On earlier visits British Isles teams won high regard for their sportsmanship. There is every reason to believe the present team could win a similar reputation, if opposing sides would permit. Unfortunately, the incidents reported from the opening matches of the tour are not new. They are too often part of the pattern of New Zealand Rugby. The dangers of punching, and particularly of kicking, need no elaboration. But they are often seen in club and provincial games; when a touring team arrives, it is obviously regarded as an occasion for local teams, before local crowds, to show how fearless they are. But fearlessness has not been shown by the referees. If they were assured of the full backing of Rugby administrators, they could put a stop to rough and dangerous play quicker than a hulking forward can kick a prostrate opponent in the back. There is, sadly, evidence that such support is seldom forthcoming. The Lions play their fourth match in Christchurch tomorrow. If the referee could visit both dressing-rooms before the match and announce that the first man to resort to thuggery would be sent from the field, it would be a pleasant match. And it still could be pleasant, if sense and sportsmanship can prevail over unhealthy fanaticism.