Commonwealth Games: Robertson fires shot at Willis over trip

Kiwi runner Jake Robertson says he will never forget Nick Willis tripping him in the 5000m at the Commonwealth Games.

A clearly emotional Robertson launched an extraordinary tirade after his double failure in Glasgow, airing grievances at a range of targets including his compatriot.

Robertson finished seventh in the men's 10,000m final at Hampden Park this morning, five days after being accidentally tripped by Willis in the 5000m.

Today he was hindered by a string of lapped runners in the 25-lap race, incurring Robertson's ire and provoking a rant aimed at those who he perceived as substandard.

"I really don't believe that these people should be competing," he said. "They do not have the same standards as us and they're really interfering.

"They are the reason I fell in the 5k, including Nick Willis, which I will not forget for four years. And if I'm injured in four years, then the rest of my life maybe.

"That was my chance, in the 5000, so I will not forget that."

It was a change of tune for Robertson from when he spoke post-race on Monday morning, though then a contrite Willis loomed over his shoulder.

"That's the way things go," he said at the time. "It could've been anyone, it could've happened to anyone, and it is what it is."

But a second disappointment clearly proved too much for the Kenyan-based runner, wearing the silver fern for the first time at a Games.

When asked what he could take from Glasgow, Robertson replied: "Nothing. I did nothing. I came here and I got nothing. That's it."

For much of today's race, it looked like Roberston had a chance to earn a much more desirable return, but he struggled once the kick came in the final lap.

"I think everyone could see what went on," he said. "There was a lot of talk from the Kenyans. I consider it foul play. And the lapped runner just completely stopped my rhythm.

"I can't make excuses - there was just a fold in the last lap. That was it."

Earlier, twin brother Zane faded out of contention in the first round of the 1500m, finishing seventh in a heat won by Willis, unable to add to the bronze medal he claimed from the race in which his brother was tripped.