Hurricanes diplomatic over controversy

The Hurricanes were up in arms at the end of their 13-all draw against the Sharks in Wellington, feeling they should have been awarded a match winning penalty try as the hooter sounded.

The Hurricanes were up in arms at the end of their 13-all draw against the Sharks in Wellington, feeling they should have been awarded a match winning penalty try as the hooter sounded.

Hurricanes centre Conrad Smith was tackled without the ball just inches from the line preventing him from possibly taking a pass and breaking the deadlock.

Smith unsuccessfully appealed to the referee, Australian Paul Marks, for a penalty try on the field but the Hurricanes players were diplomatic about the incident when questioned later.

“The ref made his call and you can't change that call so the boys will have to put up with it,” said Hurricanes captain Rodney So'oialo.

Smith, who was very vocal immediately after the incident, was also cool about the disputed tackle.

“We had our chance but we made a lot of mistakes and that's probably what we will look back on rather than the last part of the game,” said Smith.

“I don't know about the last call.

“I'm sure it will be reviewed on talk back non-stop but it's one of those things that happens,” added the outside centre.

Meanwhile, Sharks captain Johann Muller was said his side was saved by their defence.

“We've only conceded six tries in seven games, that's absolutely outstanding,” he noted.

“I think it's quite disappointing to end with a draw but I think our defence was outstanding again,” he added.