Rugby Reports

Dominion, Volume 25, Issue 266, 5 August 1932, Page 13

Rugby Reports

Sir, —Your correspondent “Fair Play” in reply to my letter appearing in your issue ol July asks the tollowing question: “Now did 'Clean Sport’ see the Poneke piayer kick the ban out of play before the Eastbourne player attempted to tackle him?” Yes, certainly 1 did, and 1 would like to mention that had the Eastbourne player tackled the Poneke man and dumped him hard after he had got rid of the ball, that even would not justify the punching, although perhaps his temper would be rather frayed. It would certainly be a case for the referee to deal with the illegal tackler.

“Fair Play” states that “the Eastbourne player attempted to tackle him,’’ and 1 would like to point out to “Fair Play” that an attempt to tackle does not constitute a tackle that justifies a punch on the chin in return. Your correspondent also states that I had forgotten the incident when the Poneke man was obstructed and a free kick awarded to that team. No, I bad not forgotten, but it recalls to mind the incident in front of the Poueke goal when a forward dashed out of the scrum and obstructed the opposing half-back long before the ball reached him. For this incident a free kick was awarded, and Fuller kicked a goal. Dore “Fair Play” remember that? He suggests that I attend Athletic Park each Saturday to eee how many marks I can award to the Poneke team for sharp practices. Had he read my letter carefully he would see that I mentioned the following: “Not only those teams seen on Athletic Park recently, but many others,” and therefore I did not confine my remarks to the Poneke team. I merely mentioned incidents that have happened on the park this season and have been town talk. If “Fair Play” thinks the cap fits the Poneke team let them wear it by all means. I go to the park for a comfortable seat and to see a sparkling display, but as mentioned in my previous letter I have been very disappointed. I also wrote my letter supporting "The Dominion” reporter’s fair and unbiased reports, and pointed out that had they wished many incidents of illegal tactics could have been printed, and for.this omission , somebody must be very grateful.—l am, etc., “CLEAN SPORT." Wellington, August 2,