Lapses from Good Rugby Behaviour Must be Checked

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26479, 5 June 1947, Page 2

Lapses from Good Rugby Behaviour Must be Checked

It is not the purpose of this article to endeavour to apportion the blame for the introduction of such tactics to the game. That is for the authorities, but it should be said that after halftime there were some glaring instances of flagrant rough play which should not have gone unnoticed. Fists and boots were used indiscriminately, and it is remarkable that several players were not seriously injured. It is understood that one player suffered a broken ja w - • , . The most disgraceful incident occurred in mid-field in full view of the crowd, when, after the game had passed further upheld, two opposing pairs of players were observed shaping up to each other and exchanging punches. It is unnecessary to details all the instances of rough play that occurred. but in view of the marked decline that has taken place in the standard of club Rugby this latest trend is most disturbing. It is the union’s bounden duty to

The referee cannot be held altogether blameless for the regrettable lapses from recognised Rugby behaviour which occurred in the match between University A and Kaikorai at Carisbrook on Saturday. Although lacking experience, Mr R. Carter is a keen official, and apparently he was so intent on keeping up with the play that he overlooked the fact that it was his duty also to keep an eye upon the players. It must have, been obvious, even to the casual onlooker, that towards the end of the first half the game was not being played in the spirit that should characterise good Rugby. One player had been observed using his fists and elbows when emerging from the scrums and rucks, and on one occasion such tactics completely doubled up an opponent.

inquire into the causes of such happenings, and if necessary to decide upon firm action in the event of any recurrence. No one expects Rugby to be played with kid gloves, but hard play should be differentiated from deliberately rough play, and action taken accordingly. ’With the present unbalanced competition, spoiling play is creeping into Dunedin Rugby, and the results are seen in the poor attendances in spite of the excellent weather that has been experienced this season. It must be many years since a match between University A and Kaikorai has been witnessed by barely 3000 spectators, and in spite of counter-attractions one cannot help feeling that had the games which preceded it as Carisbrook this season been of a more attractive nature the attendance would have been greater. The situation should give the union cause for serious thought, which should be followed by action.