THE ALL BLACKS

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 55, Issue 285, 14 September 1935, Page 6

THE ALL BLACKS

OPENING OF THE TOUR TO-DAY.

TEAM CONFIDENT OF VICTORY

OPINION OF THE CRITICS

(United Press Association —Copyright) LONDON, Sept. 13.

The All Blacks are confident of victory against Devon and Cornwall at Devonport to-morrow. The match is regarded as a curtain-raiser to the season, and is one in which the All Blacks are not likely to be extended. The newspapers consider the team very strong. Mr V. R. Meredith (manager) declined to say how the forwards would pack. The “News-Chronicle” considers that whatever plan the All Blacks adopt they will be formidable, and they should be supreme at least in the line-outs >

The team practised strenuously on the velvety turf at Paignton. Oliver played with bare feet and showed a rare turn of speed. Some critics were unimpressed with the forwards, and they declare that some attempts at wheeling missed the fundamental principles. The newspapers expect the All Blacks to play on traditional lines. They are expected to keep the ball moving with sharp hand-to-hand passing, to be capable of sudden bursts of extra pace, and to run straight. West Country people have taken the team to their hearts, and the practices have been largely attended.