Edwards blasts WRU

Graham Henry was unfairly criticised, says Edwards

Legendary scrum-half Gareth Edwards has criticised the Welsh Rugby Union general committee for failing to take action against 'maverick' official Les Williams.

Williams launched a personal attack on former Wales coach Graham Henry before the New Zealander quit his post on Wednesday.

But the WRU's general committee declined to take any action against vice-chairman Williams, preferring instead to warn him about his future conduct.

Edwards, who starred for Wales, the British Lions and the Barbarians during his illustrious career, described Williams' actions as 'scandalous'.

Good results

He said: "Although Les went to great lengths to say they were personal feelings, as vice-chairman he has responsibilities.

"I thought his outburst was scandalous and the fact they haven't taken him to task conjours up all kinds of thoughts like whether it was a set-up in the first place.

"I am not saying that people should not have any opinions, but it was the way it was done.

"Results have been poor of late, but we have also had some good results during Graham Henry's reign.

"I am not sure whether changing the coach will alter things. We have seen in the past that it doesn't necessarily happen.

Craving success

"I think we have to look the structure of the game in Wales and start from there."

WRU chairman Glanmor Griffiths has admitted that the structure will be discussed, but the union will not rush into things.

"Graham talked about the number of clubs in Welsh rugby, and any changes need to be considered very carefully," he said.

"We have all suffered criticism in recent times, and all we crave for success in Welsh rugby and that's what we are aiming at."

And Griffiths admitted he had considered his own position following the week of woe in Welsh rugby.

"I am not going to walk away from the problems. I never considered leaving when the Millennium Stadium was under construction - and that was one of the most difficult periods of my life."