27 Oct 2009

Kangaroos don't want neutral referee

7:28 am on 27 October 2009

Australian rugby league officials have refused a neutral referee for their 4-nations clash against England this weekend.

English referee Steve Ganson will now take charge of the game in Wigan.

Australia were given the option of New Zealander Leon Williamson or Frenchman Thierry Alibert but refused after claiming they were not full-time refs.

Ganson officiated Australia's 20-all draw with the Kiwis on Sunday in their opening Four Nations game.

Kangaroos coach Tim Sheens was unhappy with Ganson's performance in that game saying: "Hopefully, we'll understand him a little better next week."

England won their opener beating France 34-12.