SENIOR B GAMES.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 144, 20 June 1929, Page 14

SENIOR B GAMES.

OTAHUHU BEAT POINT CHEVALIER

PARNELL DOWN TO NORTHCOTE,

The Hag of Rugby League was unfurled at Papatoetoe on Saturday, when Point Chevalier played Otahuhu. About one thousand spectators turned up to see the match, which w\s the first of any consequence played in the district. The crowd were not disappointed, for Otahuhu were successful in winning, the Joss being Point's first reverse this season. It was a hard battle between two well-matched scrums, with occasional flashes of bright back play. The result will undoubtedly make a more interesting competition, as both teams are now level for championship honours. The crowd was very and, with the exception of- an occasional encroachment on the playing field, all enjoyed the match. It was a wise move to play a senior match at Papatoetoe, and it is to be hoped that the Auckland League will send teams more often to the district.

A penalty goal by Eustace for Otahuhu brought the opening points, and a few minutes later Monaghan equalised. Lane, for Point, potted a field goal,.and the town team led four points to two at half-time. In the. second half, Ota,huhu's backs threw the ball about in good style, and two nice tries were registered, Matson and Harris scoring, while Eustace kicked another goal. Tlie

game ended 10—6 in favour of Otahuhu. For the winners, Phillips, at full-hack, gave a brilliant display. He fielded well and kicked with great judgment. Eustace and Matson played splendid football in the three-quarter line. The latter's try was a beautiful effort. McDonald was much below form," being uncertain in handling and weak on defence. Conway was the outstanding forward, while Levy ■ and Harris were prominent' among a hard-wqrking set. Point Chevalier were unfortunate to lose Cronin, their half-back, who was playing a great game until he retired, minus several teeth. Duncan played a fine game, easily his best this season. Lane was conspicuous on defence, and was a little unlucky not to be awarded a try. McLaren was a disappointment on the wing. Monaglian got through a tremendous amount of work ably. The forwards did well in the scrum, but in the open the set' failed as a team. Seldom did they give support in the loose. Kindley, Morrow and Goodwin played well, as did McMillan. NORTHCOTE GET POINTS. A strong sun was to Parnell's disadvantage in their game against Northcote, and the marine suburb team held its lead, established in the first half.

In fact, Northcote scored ' two . simple tries owing to Kerr's failure to see the hall froih. the fiill-back -position. However, Northcote showed improved form, and it will occasion 110 surprise sto see both Otahuhu . and Point: Chevalier extended. The first spell , needs little description. Northcote pressed hard with high kicks, and Parnell were continually on the defensive. In the second half Parnell's backs gave, a pleasing display. For Parnell, Anderson gave a fine display at five-eighths. He made some clever openings, and , did good work on attack. Campney was dangerous on the wing, and did well with .limited opportunities. Hosking, .played soundly at centre. Kelly spoiled a' good game "by weak handling in the open.' Behind the scrum Little ■ hung on . too much, but otherwise played ably. . Among the forwards Ritchie and Brockliss were prominent. Sloman and Watson ; also did good work.