Maori Tactics Were Fair, Legal
SYDNEY,. Tue.—The manager of the New Zealand Maori Rugby team (Mr D. S. B. Heather) defended the hard-rucking forward play of the team against New South Wales on Saturday. He claimed that the tactics, although vigorous, were perfectly legal and fair.
“We are used to playing that type of football and . will continue to play it,” Mr Heather said. . “That is what forwards are for. In 1937, the Springboks played the same type of football as ours.” The referee, Mr L. C. Tomalin, said: “It was hard, vigorous rucking. If the ball is there, the players are entitled to go for it. , “The Maoris were not like our fellows, who were half-hearted with their raking.” Mr Tomalin spoke to only one Maori during the game. He also cautioned one New South Wales forward.
In the Sydney Sun, the Rugby writer, E. W. Kahn, said he supported the view of Mr Heather and Mr Tomalin that the Maori tactics were legal and that the "squeal” from the New South Wales camp was unjustified.
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Northern Advocate, 31 May 1949, Page 7
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177Maori Tactics Were Fair, Legal Northern Advocate, 31 May 1949, Page 7
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