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Rugby Union: Llandudno chairman calls for end to autumn break

Nov 4 2010

ONE of North Wales rugby’s most respected figures is calling for the controversial six-week autumn break from league action to be scrapped.

Llandudno chairman Howie Roberts (pictured above) is a staunch opponent of the WRU’s policy of suspending league matches from late October until early December to make way for autumn internationals and domestic cup fixtures.

Roberts, whose team moved up to fourth in WRU Division One North on October 23 after celebrating their first win over champions Nant Conwy in many years, believes the break upsets the progress and momentum of clubs.

"The North Wales clubs’ committee believe the time is right to change this rule and I will be recommending it is," he said.

"Their argument is there are no referees available, but I think there should be a referees rota set up to cover North Wales games during this period.

"The WRU argue the referees want to attend internationals, but I question whether many of them do."

Roberts, who has served 50 years with Llandudno RFC, added: "Our first team are playing well and having a good season, but a six-week break now will disrupt things and it’s a case of if you can pick up where you left off in December.

"For North Wales rugby to move forward clubs have got to play more regularly."