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Imagine losing a game in front of 50,000 spectators. Imagine then being asked, within minutes, before the sweat has dried on your brow, to pass comment on your loss. Now compare Richie McCaw and Paul Gallen. Two different sports, of course. But that is not really relevant.
The same principle applies in all, not just the rugby codes.
The principle to be gracious in defeat.
In the Reds versus Crusaders match recently, McCaw had just been penalised in the last minute, contentiously, to lose the game. He did not blame the referee for the loss despite the fact it was open to him, rightly or wrongly.
In last night’s Origin, New South Wales lost the game in the first 30 minutes.
What did Gallen do? You guessed it: blame the referee.
What tiny-mindedness. How mean-spirited. McCaw congratulated Queensland on the win. Gallen blamed the referee for his loss.
In the words of a Wallaby coach, “I don’t blame you, son. I blame the selectors.”
Ricky Stuart has form for the same thing, when Australia lost the Rugby League World Cup. He chose Gallen as captain.
Robbie Deans and Todd Blackadder chose McCaw.
I blame Stuart. Gallen should never have been placed in that position. The coach should have recognised him for what he is. A whinger.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.