ELLERSLIE NEED PRACTICE.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 119, 22 May 1928, Page 14

ELLERSLIE NEED PRACTICE.

Although Newton deserved their win on Saturday, Ellcrslie, with a little more good fortune would have reduced the final margin of points to two—and possibly the game might have ended in a draw, 13 points each. It was a case of inexperience up against experience, and the team, knowing the finer points of the game, won. With more practice together, and by paying strict attention to training, the "babies" of this year's senior competition will do much better as the season advances. They started off well by defeating Ponsonby in the first match on Carlaw Park. Then they played City on the Domain, and looked like holding their own; but here again want of knowledge of ..the finer points of the game beat them. On Saturday Newton turned out a fit team, which appeared to be trained to the minute, whilst on the other hand the Ellerslie players appeared as if they were in "want of a gallop." Despite this fact it was easy to see that they were holding their opponents. It was a very even game, however, the better combined play of the Newton team carrying them to victory. Taking it on the whole, it was a real good go from start to finish, characterised by clean hard football. The tackling of both sides was sure, and defence was quickly turned into attack.

On Newton's side Herewini at full-back did not play up to standard, and on occasion nearly let his side down badly. Ho was far too lackadaisical in endeavouring to appear to be playing ft "cool game." Dufty was the Dufty of i played in the three-quarter line, »nq opened up the play on several H »*^« r *ves also did his share, ■nUnriu V * n ,*h« *econd half was a WlL P sft 0, / rork - Somer9 * nd Hall In J of * he 'orwards. * little half Wv u l6 havc unearthcd hi MnioT^^vTn 0 « will niako his football for 4 played junior

team. When he gains the necessary confidence required for such a position, he will have to be well watched by the opposition. Davies, the ex-Otago player, who hits been in the three-quarter line, was given a game as breakaway on Saturday, and filled the position with to his team and himself. Percy at full-buck was safe enough, but he was incluinde to take risks. As usual S. Crewthor played League football as it should be played.