Rugby League: Coach gives Maori side rocket over behaviour

GLOUCESTER - New Zealand Maori rugby league coach Cameron Bell has reprimanded his entire squad for their off-the-field behaviour since they arrived in England last week.

Bell was concerned that the players have been too lax and taking touring life for granted off the field.

Team spokesman Kevin Tamati said there had been no major problem, but the young players had to be made aware of their responsibilities as ambassadors of New Zealand and the Maori people.

The Maori squad yesterday prepared for their next game, against Samoa at Workington tomorrow.

Tamati said Bell had made the players sit up and take note of a need to improve their attitude and responsibilities.

"Cameron was disappointed at their ill-discipline and he felt that they were slacking off the field as well. He gave them the birch, telling them they needed to be ambassadors, with better off-the-field behaviour.

"It was not anything in particular, just the way they behave around the hotel. They had became lax, were not being polite and not saying thank you. They had been taking things for granted and the young blokes were told it was important to behave properly for Maori people.

"He was disappointed that he had to take the birch to them. They needed to be told so it is all sorted out. Our team kaumatua, Tutu Ormsby, of Ngati Maniapoto in the Waikato, also had a word. He is the leader of this party in customs, prayers and songs.

"He is the leading light for the team and told the boys they are representing our people in ways that our people will be proud of, not ashamed of."

Bell told the players that if they could do the simple things off the field, then the simple things on the field would not become major problems.

The Maori team to play Samoa has been named, with all the players who did not play in the opening match against Scotland getting a run.

The best 17 will be picked for the final and deciding pool game against Ireland in Dublin on Sunday.

The selection of Paul Whaituria and Boycie Nelson in the backs gives them the opportunity of putting pressure on the places for the game in Dublin.

The Maori team were given a wake-up call against Scotland, who they beat only with a late drop goal, 17-16. They need an impressive performance against Samoa to stand a chance of winning their group.

Meanwhile, Kiwi centre Richie Blackmore could play his last game for New Zealand in their match against the Cook Islands at Reading on Friday.

Blackmore, aged 31, announced yesterday that he was retiring after the cup. He realises that if he does not impress enough against the Cooks it may be his last game in the Kiwi jersey.

The Leeds centre has played 20 tests for New Zealand and was chosen in the World XIII after his outstanding performances in 1995.

Leeds have not signed him for next year yet, but he will stay in the Yorkshire city because he part-owns a restaurant and bar there.

Maori team: Clinton Toopi, Jarred Mills, Paul Whaituira, Boycie Nelson, Steve Matthews, Luke Goodwin, Jeremy Smith, Tawera Nikau (capt), Tyran Smith, Kyle Leuluai, Tahi Reihana, Jamie Cook, Paul Rauihihi. Res: Toa Kohe-Love, Martin Moana, David Kidwell, Terry Hermansson.

- NZPA