Erickson refs by rulebook

By WYNNE GRAY

PARIS - Much of the fervour and anticipation about yesterday's test was blown away by Australian referee Wayne Erickson.

In a sport which demands some lenient advantage, some sympathy from officials, Erickson used every clause he could find in the rulebook.

A former frontrower, he was pedantic at scrum time, and in other areas lacked some warmth for the occasion.

In a Herald preview he was described as officious, and Erickson proved true to his form of recent seasons.

All Black coach Wayne Smith sidestepped comment, claiming it was not his job. But when pressed on his side's fortune to have a try awarded to Christain Cullen from a dubious pass, Smith quipped, "And what about their last try?"

It was clear he felt France's second touchdown was a non-try, a view shared by captain Todd Blackadder, who said he was glad it had not cost them victory.

Even from the grandstand, about 100m away, and without the benefit of a replay, it was apparent Fabien Pelous had not grounded the ball among a group of All Black tacklers.

Erickson will be assessed on his performance in ratings which determine the international roster and ability of referees.

But he did keep a check on some of the volatility in the game. There were a few skirmishes, but he closed down much of the rancour which threatened to develop.

Blackadder vouched for the test being a lot "cleaner" than many expected.

South Africa's Jonathan Kaplan will referee the second test in Marseilles next Sunday.

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