SENIOR MATCHES.

Press, Volume XLVI, Issue 7350, 1 July 1889, Page 6

SENIOR MATCHES.

The principal matches on Saturday were between the Sydenham and Addington, and Merivale and Christchurcb. In the former Sydenham won by 4 points to nothing, and in the latter Merivale were successful by a similar number of points. SYDENHAM v ADDINGTON. The return match between took place on Addington ground ou Saturday, in. the presence of a fair number of spectators. The field of play was in very bad condition, and the game suffered. Hepburn kickedon ior Addington, whoput Sydenham on the defence, and kept them so for the greater part of the tirst spell. The Addington forwards repeatedly carried the scrums, and Sydenham, by occasional abort dashes and kicking, succeeded in preventing the home team from scoring. The visitors, however, were twice forced down. Towards the finish oi this spell the Sydenham forwards warmed to their work, aud carried the play into Addiugton territory. AlcGourt rushed the ball over the Hue, but the smartness of an opponent prevented anything but a forcedown resulting. After the kick-out the ball was again carried to the Addiugton goal line. Several of the players mulled the ball, and some Oad passing was also noticeable. AlcLeau caught the ball and passed to Allardyce, wao doubled well, and toached down behind the posts. Allardyce took the kick and piaced a. goal. At the coininducement oi the secoud sptfil Sydenham were compelled to play a defensive game. Larcomu, Scriuigeour, the Hepburn;*, and Knight, were conspicuous for their piay for Audington, while Aliarciyce, Donnelly, Cochrane, Pender, and Weekes tought well for the visitors. Itielly made a good dash ou one occasion, but he was stopped before becoming very dangerous. Flay for a while was very uuinteresting. Moir from a loose scrum passed the ball with his foot to McLean, who took the ball well aud obtained a try. Weeks took the kick, but no goal was made. The game thus ended in a win for Sydenham by 4 points to nothing.