Auckland Rugby League Drops Move To Acquire New Zealand Warriors

The Auckland Rugby League's move to acquire National Rugby League side New Zealand Warriors has "come to an abrupt end," according to the NEW ZEALAND HERALD. ARL Chair Cameron McGregor confirmed on Tuesday the deal was off -- "despite reportedly agreeing on an asking price" with current Owner Eric Watson three weeks ago. McGregor said that the ARL's bid to take a majority share in the club through the Carlaw Park Heritage Trust "had ended." McGregor said, "I can confirm the contract is at an end. Quite simply we couldn't agree on terms with the Warriors. Both parties signed a confidentiality agreement, so we can't say more than that at the moment." He added, "We're very, very disappointed. We spent a lot of time and money in our efforts and, yes we are very disappointed at this outcome. It wasn't what we were hoping for. We've indicated to the Warriors that we're open to negotiate with them at any stage [in future]" (NZ HERALD, 11/14).