Whiteley: Attempt to cover up failed drugs test is slur on Hull FC
RUGBY legend Johnny Whiteley said attempts to cover up a failed drugs test at Hull FC are a slur on the club's reputation.
On Thursday, the Mail revealed James Rule tried to cover up a failed drugs test by Martin Gleeson, who gave false evidence to a doping tribunal, along with conditioning coach Ben Cooper.
Rule has been banned for two years, Gleeson will serve an 18-month ban and Cooper was given a two-year ban, with half suspended.
Former FC star Mr Whiteley said: "Players go around schools inviting youngsters into what is supposed to be a safe, healthy environment.
"To think they did this behind everyone's back is a slur on the club.
"But people survive hurricanes and earthquakes, so Hull can certainly survive this."
He said Hull FC, its staff, players and supporters would bounce back from the scandal engulfing the previous administration.
Mr Whiteley said: "The world doesn't stop because of three silly people.
"It doesn't do FC any favours, but we are a close-knit community.
"We have been let down, but it has been nipped in the bud now.
"It festered, but it wasn't prevalent. A lot of the lads didn't know this had gone on. There is always going to be bad fruit in the basket, but they have gone now."
He said the takeover of the club by Adam Pearson was a new start for Hull FC.
He said: "It will stick for a while, but people will have common sense and get back to reality.
"There is a refreshing new start at Hull FC and there is already a vast difference in the approach and attitude in the new regime.
"Everything isn't all doom and gloom – the future is very positive."
Hull will host two teams in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup. There will also be fixtures at Craven Park and the KC Stadium.
The city is still waiting to hear whether it will also be hosting a semi-final game.
Councillor Terry Geraghty, portfolio holder for leisure and culture at Hull City Council, said: "I don't think this news will have an effect on the cup.
"We have been judged on our excellent bid, not these individuals.
"They haven't done themselves proud, but they certainly haven't managed to put a cloud over the city.
"This won't have an effect on future sport in Hull."
180 Comments
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by GMX35
Saturday, January 07 2012, 4:41PM
“A slur on the clubs reputation? I don't see how this could possibly damage their reputation as a team of hooligans, yobs and petty criminals.”
by hullkr117
Saturday, January 07 2012, 12:44PM
“Tis i Tezza of OZ ,DEXTER time to be QUITE”
by bridrobin
Saturday, January 07 2012, 12:37PM
“Yes they will have to change the dates on the plaque.
I have already informed the Grand Lodges of the Orange Order in England, Scotland Wales and N. Ireland they just laughed. Good job I gave my name as Dexter - just in case ... lol”
by oxyelitecheat
Saturday, January 07 2012, 10:17AM
“Bridrob
You will have to inform the HCC council that the plaque on
the King Billy statue is wrong.
According to Dipster
Bless him”
by dextertexter
Saturday, January 07 2012, 9:22AM
“what an idiot ive been conversing with your right im an idiot for doing so.just a bluffer”
by bridrobin
Friday, January 06 2012, 6:45PM
“1066 and all that - Dixter rewrites the History of England. He should be an MP .... lol”
by bridrobin
Friday, January 06 2012, 5:31PM
“Dexter, you are a lone voice in the wilderness making an utter fool of yourself.”
by oxyelitecheet
Friday, January 06 2012, 3:54PM
“Poor DipsteR
He does get himself into such a flap after he makes yet another gaff.
Mind you he must be used to it by now. lol”
by dextertexter
Friday, January 06 2012, 3:53PM
“cant be if you say they are not ,lol”
by dextertexter
Friday, January 06 2012, 3:51PM
“bridrobin,this is how the bbc put it,the last invasion of britain was in 1066 leader WILLIAM OF ORANGE,lol cant be bothered with you cause your stupid,you dont think they were one and the same do you lol.”