Roach stands down after ref abuse
July 03, 2008http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,23963721-23214,00.html
FORMER Australia prop Steve Roach has stood down from his role with the NSW Origin side after swearing at referee Tony Archer in the aftermath of Wednesday night's series deciding loss.
Roach was forced to apologise to the veteran whistleblower after delivering the tirade as Archer made his way up the tunnel at the conclusion of Queensland's 16-10 win.
The ex-Blues enforcer also apologised to referee's coach Robert Finch for his behaviour, before informing the NSWRL of his intention to stand down from any further roles within representative teams.
"They both accepted my apology and I am thankful they were so understanding of the situation, but it still doesn't excuse what I did," Roach said in a statement.
"I would hate to think my actions would ever be repeated by junior players.
"It's not the kind of example I've tried to set during my career."
Emotions were running hot after the game, with several controversial calls throughout the match upsetting NSW officials, including Archer's decision not to send Nate Myles from the field for a nasty dangerous throw on Blues prop Ben Cross.
But NSWRL general manager Geoff Carr said there was no excuse for Roach's actions.
"Steve is aware his behaviour in relation to this incident was unacceptable and he's taken responsibility for that," Carr said.
AAP
