Chase: No problems with Marshall

Rangi Chase
12 April 2012

Half-back Rangi Chase left Hull's KC Stadium clutching the shirt of best friend Benji Marshall, but he admitted their relationship had been put to the test during England's 28-6 win over New Zealand.

Chase played arguably the best of his four games for England since choosing them over his homeland last month, as the Red Rose secured a Gillette Four Nations Final spot with a comprehensive victory over the defending champions.

"We're still mates, no matter what happens on the field," said Chase.

It marked a successful end to Chase's first appearance against his former compatriots, and saw him get the better of Kiwi captain Marshall, who in the build-up to the tournament had referred to the Castleford playmaker as his "brother".

The pair were so close they lived together during their formative years and Marshall stated how proud he was of Chase before the game.

They did their best to prove otherwise during it, though, squaring-up in two first-half fracases, and Chase confessed afterwards Marshall had been more upset about his defection than he had initially indicated.

The 25-year-old added: "We had a bit of a dust-up there, a couple of run-ins at times. But he's upset because I'm not playing for for them and am on the other side. I fully understand how the boys feel, but I have my reasons why I'm here. I've said them all along from the start."

One of the main flashpoints came when the fiery New Zealand hooker Isaac Luke was put on report for twisting Chase's legs during a tackle just before half-time. That prompted a minor skirmish, with Chase and Marshall trading verbal blows for a second time.

"I expected that they would (try and intimidate him). They're passionate and I will step up to the challenge any time," added Chase, who did spend time in the New Zealand dressing room after the final whistle.

"There are no ill feelings. What happens on the field has to stay there, I knew it was going to come. I just have to rise to the challenge and raise my game. It was expected."

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