"PUBLIC MAY BE DENIED GAME"

Press, Volume LXXXII, Issue 24906, 20 June 1946, Page 6

"PUBLIC MAY BE DENIED GAME"

COMMENT BY LEAGUE PRESIDENT “It is regrettable that the attitude of the Rugby Union has been maintained. It was thought that perhaps we had progressed a little further in tolerance, patriotism and sportsmanship,” said Mr L. G. 2\mos, president of the Canterbury Rugby League, commenting on the Canterbury Rugby Union’s statement about Lancaster Park. “The difficulties are realised, but we suggest they are not insurmountable. Could we not, even at this late Stage, suggest to the union second thoughts. “The pros and cons oi professionalism did not concern us when applying for the park. Our thoughts were „as to whom we could approach to give us the necessary accommodation. The Rugby Union holds Lancaster Park, Rugby Park, and the Show Grounds, all charge grounds, so it is not as if we could approach anyone else. “It is a poor state of affairs that prevents a courteous reception of exservicemen footballers. It would appear that if the present attitude of the Rugby Union is maintained the public will be denied the chance of seeing the game.’’ Mr Amos said a meeting oi the Canterbury Rugby League would be held this evening to consider the matter