Jordan Watson, better known as ‘How to Dad’, has called out 1News for giving the Black Ferns little to no airtime ahead of their Rugby World Cup quarter-final clash with South Africa this weekend.
In a Facebook post yesterday, Watson made his stance clear, writing: “The mighty Black Ferns are currently gearing up for a mammoth quarter-final clash against South Africa! It’s the knockout stages of the women’s Rugby World Cup, a tournament that happens once every 4 years!”
He added: “Yes, they play THIS weekend, and YES, it’s Thursday today, just a few days before the big game! And here you are getting your Black Ferns news from a washed-up influencer! Kick off 12:00am Sunday NZT - GO THE BLACK FERNS!”
In the clip that has gained over 175,000 views and over 1,000 comments, Watson took aim at 6pm news coverage, specifically singling out 1News’ sport section.
“1NEWS are taking the pi$$. I got ya @blackferns ✊🏼," he began. "Three days in a row, no mention of the Black Ferns. My three girls are sitting behind me on the couch, thinking, ‘Hey, we’re gonna see a Black Ferns story… No story. No mention. Another All Blacks story.’”
He added: “I love watching the sports news, but it’s a World Cup, guys. Once every four years, the women’s team have made it to the quarter finals… Surely, SURELY, we can scrape together a story about it.”
You feel for them, and it boils my blood.
Commenters agree, with one writing: “Absolutely 💯 the BLACK FERNS deserve more (media) attention than what they currently get. They consistently 'produce the goods' and are consistently NOT recognised or rewarded appropriately.”
They continued: “Thank goodness they continue to play with passion and their genuine love of the game, which shines through with integrity and humbleness. Kia kaha wàhine toa! 🏉💕”
Another said: “Louder for the people in the back!”
A third added: “I'm really glad you're taking a stance on this. The Black Ferns are doing so well.”
Our girls are gearing up for the clash against the South African side, with 2024 Player of the Year Kaipo Olsen back in the squad after an ankle injury that took her out in her World Cup debut against Spain on August 25th.
The wāhine smashed Ireland 40-0 on Monday, and with a win like that, we’re heading in confident to this quarter final.
Let’s go gals! It's a massive weekend for NZ sport.
