Storm delayed reaction
Monday, April 14, 2008
Source: mX (Melbourne)
Melbourne Storm has urged the NRL to take Channel 9 to task, alleging the rugby league broadcaster has breached its agreement twice by failing to show Storm games in Melbourne before midnight.
Last Friday week's clash with the Brisbane Broncos didn't air until 12.15am and last Friday's night's grand final re-match against Manly was scheduled to be aired at 12.10am on Melbourne screens.
An NRL spokesman confirmed to mX that although there were provisions for the game to be aired after 12pm if shows ran late. Nine is obliged to schedule matches before midnight.
Waldron said it was a clear breach of the agreement and if the league cared about spreading the NRL gospel in Melbourne, it was bound to hold Channel 9 accountable.
"I've spoken to the NRL and they are well and truly aware of this situation and as the people responsible for looking after the future of the game I would hope they did act," Waldron told mX.
"I'm disappointed, really disappointed, after all the inroads we have made for the game down here that we can't get appropriate coverage.
"But it's not for us to do anything, it is the NRL's deal so our hands are tied. But they really should do everything in their power to make sure the deal is upheld."
Waldron said he had made NRL boss David Gallop aware of his concerns as early as last year.
Nine was investigating the situation last Friday and would not comment on whether the broadcast agreement had been breached.
