Aust.’s attitude ‘disappointing’

Press, 27 September 1988, Page 44

Aust.’s attitude ‘disappointing’

By

SRI KRISHNAMURTHI

of NZPA in Wellington The Wellington Invitational XIII rugby league coach, Howie Tamati, is disappointed with suggestions that his team might try to soften up the visiting Australians only a week before the World Cup final. Australia plays the Invitational XIII at the Basin Reserve in its final buildup match before it goes to Auckland for the World Cup final against the Kiwis. The Australian coach, Don Furner, suggested at the week-end that the referee for the build-up match would need to keep a tight rein on things in order to protect his players. “I’m a bit disappointed with him even suggesting that we might play dirty,” Mr Tamati said yesterday. “I don’t know what he’s talking about or what brought on such suggestions. “I think he’s trying to put pressure on the referee to protect his players and look after them," he said. Mr Tamati said that the T

Australians need not be worried too much about rough tactics from his team. “Certainly it has been suggested to me in a joking manner but there is no way I’d allow it. “I don’t play football like that, I never have,” he said. His ambition to coach the Kiwis is a big reason why Mr Tamati will not allow the Invitational team to go in with the intent to injure the Australians. “My players will be out there to play football, not to fight. “We’re looking forward to a clean game and the boys are well aware that this match gives them an opportunity to play one of the best teams in the world.” The Wellington Invitational XIII comprises mainly youngsters with the exception of the former test player, Marty Crequer. Tony Tuimavave who played a sterling game for Auckland in its match against Canterbury-Banks-town recently is another the Australians are likely to keep an eye on come Sunday at the Basin Reserve.