League: Tri-Nations organisers 'arrogant'

New Zealand has accused the English organisers of the Tri-Nations rugby league competition of arrogance for failing to book a hotel for the Kiwis ahead of the final.

New Zealand Rugby League vice chairman Selwyn Bennett said there was reserved accommodation only for Australia and Great Britain in the lead-up to the November 26 final in Leeds. The Kiwis had been scheduled to fly home after this Sunday's match against Great Britain at Huddersfield.

But with Australia beating the host nation 20-6, New Zealand are now all but guaranteed a place in the November 26 final.

Great Britain must beat the Kiwis and Kangaroos in their remaining two games and overcome a massive for-and-against deficit against both countries.

"It was the same last year," NZRL vice-chairman Selwyn Bennett said of the booking oversight.

"Obviously they've banked on an Australia-Great Britain final and us coming stone motherless last.

"We've been booked to leave after our next match and now have to find somewhere to stay. We'll be OK but what amazes me is the sheer arrogance of it all."

- NZPA