STANDARD OF N.Z. RUGBY

Pahiatua Herald, Volume XXXVI, Issue 10957, 4 October 1928, Page 5

STANDARD OF N.Z. RUGBY

ALLEG ED DETERIORATION. Electric Telegraph—Press Association WELLINGTON, Last Night. A meeting 0 f the management committee of the New Zealand Rugby Union was held to-night. It was stated that if the New Zealand team reaches Wellington on Tuesday, a civic- welcome will be tendered and the New Zealand Rugby Union will entertain the All Blacks at luncheon on the same day. Mr Fletcher brought up the question of the deterioration of the standard of play in New Zealand at the present time. He moved that a committee be set up to make some effort to improve matters. “The New Zealand team this season,” declared Mr Fletcher, “did not even know how to go down in a scrum and it was very evident that it had been badly coached.” Mr Kitto: “The standard of play usually goes in cycles. You get your lean years.” Mr Fletcher: “You- must admit we have seen some very poor Rugby this season.” Mr McKenzie: “The scrums certain I y appear to have developed i»to a rabble.” Mr Kitto: “I think any action along the lines suggested by M r Fletcher should be deferred until after the return of the New Zealand team.” Mr Fletcher: “I am not asking that action should be taken right away but I certainly think’ that we should do something to improve the game. You appear content to sit clown and let things slide.” Air Leith: “Oh! No.” Mr Fletcher: “Well, what is your objection to setting up a committee ?” Mr McKenzie: “The time is not opportune. ’’ Mr Fletcher’s motion lapsed for want of a seconder.