Pioneer seeks legal advice over ban

Pioneer Rugby Club wants a decision by its parent body to transfer its premier division and senior reserve club games against Martinborough on Saturday from the home grounds at Jeans St in Masterton to Trust House Memorial Park overturned.

The decision was made by the Wairarapa-Bush Rugby Union after the Pioneer v Carterton premier division fixture at Jeans St last weekend when ugly scenes erupted just after the final whistle was sounded, including the referee being allegedly subjected to vocal abuse by at least one player and some spectators.

And it prompted a special meeting of the Pioneer club's executive, the end result of which was a resolution to seek legal representations aimed at having the games returned to the Jeans St venue.

Pioneer spokesman Tere Torea told the Times-Age yesterday his club wanted to emphasise its support for referees. "We understand completely the commitment and contribution they give to the sport and in no way do we condone any acts of violence or abuse directed towards them, no way at all."

Mr Torea said it was important, however, that any incidents which came before the union's judiciary were treated on a case-by-case basis and clubs should not necessarily become the victims of individual acts.

"What happened last Saturday was the fault of individuals, the club itself should not be penalised by having their home games removed. We see the decision as being a knee-jerk reaction and strongly believe it should be overturned."

Mr Torea said it was important to note Pioneer club members had acted quickly and responsibly to defuse the situation, both on and off the field of play.

They had already corresponded with the Wairarapa-Bush Rugby Referees Association to explain their position.

Mr Torea said his executive was keen to hear why Pioneer was being singled out for special treatment when other instances of referee abuse were known to have happened this season at other grounds.

"That is certainly a question we will be asking the union, if we are to lose our home venue then why shouldn't that happen to others as well."

Mr Torea said he could not recall any referee having refused to officiate at matches at Jeans St in the past, or any clubs refusing to play there.

"I think it is fair to say that referees and clubs have enjoyed the hospitality provided to them by our club and our supporters."

Making the transfer of Saturday's matches even more frustrating for Pioneer is that over the years the club has developed a close relationship with the Martinborough club.

"We both enjoy the company of whanau, hapu and iwi ... reciprocal games with Martinborough are invariably held with celebratory hangi festivities," Mr Torea said.

"There is a strong bond between the two clubs, very strong. Hosting them at home is important to us."