Spark cops more flak

Spark was under fire again last night after some fans fumed over viewing issues during the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals.

The company insisted there were no issues with its streaming service, despite several customers reporting frozen screens, buffering problems and disrupted commentary.

The problems started during the England v Australia clash.

Many posted their complaints to Spark’s Facebook page, with some demanding a refund.

During the All Blacks v Ireland match some subscribers began pleading with Spark to broadcast the game free-to-air.

One fan claimed Spark had “ruined the most Kiwi thing, watching an All Blacks game, LIVE, as a nation”.

Another said problems began before kick-off.

“We are only at the national anthem and it keeps cutting out. So frustrating. Thought you would of had it sorted by now,” the fan wrote.

Angela Louise posted: “Spark you can give me a full refund. I gave you the benefit of the doubt but you’ve stuffed this up big time.”

Spark Sport spokeswoman Althea Lovell said the England v Australia game reached a new record for Spark Sport and, while it wasn’t creating any capacity issues, “we are seeing a corresponding increase in customers with individual issues”.

“There are some customers having problems relating to their in-home connectivity, tech or devices.”

Last month, Spark Sport offered full and partial refunds after some customers experienced severe disruptions during the streaming of the All Blacks’ World Cup opener against South Africa.

The match was moved to TVNZ channel Duke at half-time on September 21 after the service cut out.