Nz Push For Team

Illawarra Mercury

Tuesday March 9, 2004

NEW Zealand officials yesterday vowed to keep pushing for a second team in the National Rugby League even if they were overlooked for the mooted 16th franchise.

The New Zealand bid - for a Wellington- based side - is considered a distant third behind the Central Coast and Gold Coast in the race to woo the NRL.

Kiwi officials have the backing of an English-based billionaire, the support of Wellington council, and would boast one of the best grounds in the premiership - WestpacTrust Stadium.

NRL - KNIGHTS

Parsons fit to play

NEWCASTLE prop Matt Parsons was given the green light to play in the Knights' National Rugby League premiership opener against Penrith with a splint on his finger.

Parsons dislocated the ring finger on his left hand last month and was expected to struggle to take his place against the Panthers.

But the towering front rower yesterday declared himself fit to play.

That was the good news for the Knights. The bad news is Ben Kennedy's ongoing struggle with an ankle injury.