THE ALL BLACKS

Hokitika Guardian, 24 December 1931, Page 5

THE ALL BLACKS

ALLEGATIONS DENIED. MEMBER GIVES LIE DIRECT. (By Telegraph—Per Press Association) AUCKLAND, December 23. 1 = Mr F., W. Lucas, a member of the 1924 Ai'l Blacks, referring to the allegations of unsportsmanlike methods of match winning adopted by the team, made yesterday by Mr W, R. Jenkins who has just returned from England, said that there were some disgruntled people in the Old Country did not like rbe visiting All Black side carrying all before it. «

He would like to hear what Mr C. Wray (N.Z. representative oh the Rugby Union) would say when such statement as that attributed to Mr Jenkins was brought to his notice.

It was absurd to raise such a question at this stage, when there was no controversy seven years ago, while New Zealanders were pursuing their victorious career. Before the team left England, th\?.y were guests of one of the most representative gatherings of British sportsmen, on behaff of whom the Prince of Wales presented a loving cup, While the 1924 All Blacks certainly did always play to win, 'they did not endeavour to maintain an unbeaten record at all costs, nor at the expense of the true spirit of sportsmanship. In few matches 'there were regrettable in* eidents, but the New Zealanders had not started the rough play,