Kiwi Players Push for New Zealand Anthem At National Rugby League's Anzac Day Clash

The "hefty contingent" of Kiwis among the National Rugby League's Sydney Roosters and St. George Dragons "want the New Zealand national anthem played along with Advance Australia Fair before the clubs’ annual Anzac Day match," according to Chris Barrett of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. There will be 10 New Zealanders in action in Friday’s meeting between the teams at Allianz Stadium. The pre-match ceremony at Moore Park "includes a performance of the Last Post, as well as the Australian national anthem by a singer from the Australian Navy Band, but unlike the other annual Anzac Day clash between the Storm and the Warriors in Melbourne is missing a rendition of New Zealand’s anthem." Kiwis internationals Kenny-Dowall and Nightingale believe "God Defend New Zealand" should also "be performed before kick-off." Kenny-Dowall: ‘‘We remember Australia and New Zealand soldiers on that day. Going forward definitely it should be done. I’d love to see it out there on that special day" (SMH, 4/23).