Two jerseys for All Black hero

By CHRIS RATTUE

Bruce Robertson, one of Counties Manukau's favourite sons, will return to the province as head NPC coach in a unique sharing deal with the Auckland union.

Robertson, one of the great All Blacks, remains on the Auckland payroll as the Blues' technical adviser during the Super 12 season.

But during the NPC, he will coach the union with which he made his name as an elegant centre.

The arrangment is for two years, meaning he will still coach Counties Manukau if they win promotion this year and become a first-division rival for Auckland.

Robertson, who turns 50 today, will be assisted by longtime Ponsonby hooker Mike Turner, the former Thames Valley coach, who was to have assisted John Boe before Boe quit the Counties Manukau job last month.

Robertson, who is with the Blues in South Africa, said last night that he retained coaching links despite being an administrator with Auckland.

After retiring as a player and a couple of other jobs, he joined Auckland in 1987.

Robertson found a taste for coaching when he and Wayne Shelford led a Blues under-21 side. He has been a New Zealand resource coach, assisted Peter Sloane with the champion New Zealand Colts, and guided the Blues under-23s to last year's title.

"I found I got positive vibes and really enjoyed the team environment. I've had more and more coaching jobs over the past four years," he said.

"It was pretty unfortunate for Counties last year, and they've lost some players, which leaves a bit of a hole. It's a challenge but one I'm looking forward to."

Auckland Rugby Union chief executive David White sees no conflict with Robertson coaching another union, and one that is in the Chiefs' franchise. White knew Robertson wanted to advance his coaching career and informed Counties Manukau.

"It is good for the Blues and it is good for Auckland rugby. It will add to our coaching depth," said White.

The Steelers were relegated after finishing last in the 11-team first division, and would have to win a promotion/relegation game to climb back up.

Steelers chief executive Daniel Clifford said: "Bruce is a Counties resident and has enormous respect."