THE REFEREE DIFFICULTY.

Manawatu Herald, 29 September 1904, Page 2

THE REFEREE DIFFICULTY.

IN EXPLANATION. TO HUB SfflffOfl OT 1 THE UANAWATO HEKAIiS. gi R) For the benefit of those in the dark, you may permit space for an explanation as to my withdrawal from refereeing in the Kiwi-Awahou match on Saturday next. The facts are these; The first I knew Of the matter was from Mr Shadbolt (secretary of the Foxton Rugby Union), who asked whether I would act as referee in the match referred to. I consented to do so. The first objection I heard was from Mr George Coley (whom I then believed was a member of the Foxton Union). This gentleman made it his business to call on me and enquire by whom I was appointed, and remarked that 1 had been seen in company with Kiwi Club members, inferring, I presume, that provided I acted, that Club would get all the best of my rulings in the match. Naturally, I immediately announced my intention to withdraw, as I did not wish to have my reputation in football circles generally pending on the result of Saturday’s match. In justice to the Kiwi Club (at whom the imputation was probably aimed), I may explain that none of its members ever suggested to me the matter of refereeing, nor did I offer ray services to them. Without attempt to bear malice, how narrow - minded the sentiments conveyed to me by Mr Coley were, I will leave your readers to judge. My aspirations ‘in the football world are of a higher standard than partiality, and my earnest wish is that Saturday s game will prove an evenly contested event, and that the better team will win. ~ Thanking you for the privilege of using your columns, I am, etc., E. G. SOTHBBLAND.