Players not talking

It's understood that Bulldogs players are not answering direct questions from Police over the alleged sexual assault of a young woman at Coffs Harbour last month.

Unconfirmed reports suggest eleven players have given DNA samples but have not answered questions put to them by investigators, with all answers coming through the club's lawyers.

More players are to be interviewed today by police.

The continuation of interviews follows a Bulldogs board meeting last night in which it was decided not to take any action against players until police investigations over last month's alleged sexual assault concluded.

Yesterday, with the exception of Braith Anasta, players arrived at the Sydney Police Centre wearing casual gear, including T-shirts that featured the words "we play dirty". The dress sense has caused much discussion on talkback radio this morning.

NRL Chief Executive David Gallop says fans need to focus on the positives of the game despite the negative press it has received over recent weeks.

"The importance that the game plays in people’s lives is also a patent reminder of the responsibilities that we all share," Mr Gallop said at last night's NRL season launch.

"When we are lucky enough to be part of the professional level of rugby league, more than ever it is the job of the people in this room to keep reminding of the strengths of rugby league and the skill and excitement and joy it brings to people week after week.

"We need to learn from each and every situation, we need to have the strength to change where change is required, I'll give you a commitment tonight that rugby league will do all those things in 2004."

The NRL are expected to get results of their own investigation into recent allegations against the Bulldogs and their players today.