PONSONBY IN TRIM.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 172, 23 July 1929, Page 13

PONSONBY IN TRIM.

Ellerslie spectators were treated to a vigorous game between Ponsonby and the suburban side, under conditions not conducive to ideal team cohesion, though the match did not lack some glimpses of concerted -work, particularly on the part of the visitors whose'form suggests a serious preparation for higher honours. It was this training and better understanding among the players that contributed to a good win. However, no opposition gains easy victory over Ellerslie and the leading B grade challengers of the near future will have a tough job to displace the tricolours when the test comes, especially if Ellerslie acquire that "get together" habit. While rugged defence and spoiling tactics arc commendable, combined attack is the greater factor for success. It was the effective exploitation of this that enabled Ponsonby to emerge victorious. To a man, the forwards produced the goods. Payne offered a taste of real rep. dash, well supported by Pagan and Skelton. The latter was outstanding in the loose with a happy sense of quick anticipation. Gardiner also was in the wake, and, though he petered out towards the end, made amends by landing a good try. Peckham betrayed 'an unnecessary petulance at time'sl The forwards packed well, but in the second half the suburban hooker. Quirk', collared the ball in many of the set scrums. He (with Dance) played creditably, With Hobbs always prominent as the best forward on the ground. A fast, keen and tireless exponent, he is worth watching at any time. The cxFranktonite, McLaughlin, is a useful acquisition. Ellerslie'scvumming was a force to be reckoned with, and it is a pity the backs were unable to put this to better account. As usual that nimble little chap, Olliff, bristled in every movement, passing out well and often getting away on his' own. He needs hi)'-, proved support, for the five-eighths line was all at sea, chiefly because P. Crewther persisted in hanging to the ball too long. Hemingway did not play with a will. He did not seem.to be fit, and.the same applied to Stringer, for ■ whom there was excuse seeing that he was making his debut. He shaped better in the second half, though inclined to get out of position. Both wingers— Grogan and fine on defence. The former has shown much development since the season started. He has the speed and takes some stopping. Tooman also reveals promise and will be heard of one of these days in big football. Dufty was a tower of strength and his advent as rear-liner for Ellerslie has considerably assisted the team. AVhito again performed satisfactorily for Ponsonby, but, of course his kicking was not up to that of his international vis-a-vis. He is fortunate in the protection of a snappy three-quarter line. The trend of play did not call for a great deal from either Winters or Schofield, much to the credit of the defence. Riley featured in the first half at centre, but knocked his knee, Kimberley going on in the scrum and W. Skelton joining the rearguard. The ex-Grammar player, P. Skelton, linked up in promising style with Delgrosso and his try in the concluding stages was a gem, indicating the possibilities of this recruit once he masters the intriguing art of inside back play. Moore got through a busy day at half, opening the scoring and contributing a solo effort later. Without any apology it must be admitted that the standard of rcferceing was below par, subsequent inquiry revealing that the I control was not in the hands of a senior 'man. It is only fair to the teams, the public and to the senior referees to state this.