British League Manager Criticises N.Z. Referees

Press, Volume CX, Issue 32383, 24 August 1970, Page 5

British League Manager Criticises N.Z. Referees

(Special Crspdt. N.Z.P A. f LONDON. Mr J.' Harding, who has criticised the tactics used by the ■Australian Rugby League team •in the recent series against Britain, on Saturday sharply criticised refereeing in New Zealand. •■Some of the refereeing in New Zealand was appalling,” said Mr Harding, who man- . aged the British team to Aus- i tralia and New Zealand. However, he said, he would

jiot report the poor standard- of New Zealand referees to the International Board, as he had threatened to do when on tour. He said that New Zealand’s test referee, J. Percival, was an exception. “I don’t think he did at all badly.” he said. Mr Harding said that poor refereeing detracted from the image of the game. He also said that New Zealand would not win the World Cup. ’ They're not a good enough

side to win, but I expect New Zealand to shape up well if they try to play the skilful football they showed on tour. We.didn’t see that sort of play from Australia,’’ Mr Harding said. ‘‘But I don’t think I will report anyone,” said Mr Harding. “I have made my point in public, and it is up to New Zealand now to improve the general standard of its referees. I want to be helpful—not critical.”