FOOTBALL.

Press, Volume LXIV, Issue 19363, 16 July 1928, Page 13

FOOTBALL.

RANFURLY SHIELD

CANTERBURY'S EASY WIN.

BRIGHT SECOND SPELL

Canterbury easily survived the

season's first challenge match for the Ranfurly Shield on Saturday, defeating South Canterbury by 39 points to

9. In view of the heary list of Shield matches ahead of Canterbury a crowd of about 13,000 people assembled at Lancaster Park anxious to form an opinion as to how the Red and Blacks would perform. The form displayed by the Canterbury men was fair, the Hacks being impressive on attack in the second spell, but the forwards were held throughout by the South Canterbury team. To a considerable extent the play was spoiled by a sou'-wester, the strength of which was of great advantage to the side which had it at its back. It was so strong that on two occasions when Chesley attempted to kick a goal the ball was blown as far back as it was kicked from. In such conditions both sides were able to gain huge stretches of territory by kicking, and the backs who had to play against the wind were called on to take many difficult catches. It is interesting to note that when Canterbury played touth Canterbury last year they beat them by a margin of forty points, the score being 47 points to seven, and on the present, occasion the margin was exactly half. Prior to the game the Ranfurly Shield was taken on to the field and deposited beside the halt-way flag on the stand side of the ground

in case it should have been necessary to present it to the visitors at the conclusion of the match.

In the first spell the scores were even—six all—the home team doing very well to make them so considering the wind they had to play against, but in the second spell the Red and Black rearguard got going to some purpose and delighted the spectators with- some spectacular work, although a good deal ot what they did was far from being perfect. However, every time they started passing the spectators looked for something worth seeing, whereas they soon learned that similar initiated by the visiting backs seldom got far. The speed of the Canterbury three-quarter line was a tremendous asset to them, Ohesley, Oliver, and Hart being all "flyers." There were no players in the South Canterbury side with anything like their speed. Dstermined tackling, the only sure counter to passing rushes, was used advantageously by the visiting rearguard, many promising movements by the Red and Blacks being thuß frustrated. As was expected, the strength of the visiting team lay in the forwards who, a'the ugh apparently not so weighty as the Canterbury men, nevertheless played dashingly throughout the game, both in the tight and the loose. In fact the Red and Black forwards were disappointing and will have to do better on Wednesday, when they turn out to do battle against the Wairarapa pack. The fact that they had to play against the wind in the first spell, however, might have accounted for their showing in the second spell. Montgomery was a willing worker among the Red and Black forwards, the big fellow's form being always conspicuous. Fookes, too, was handy, while the two Maori players, Tom and Toby Robinson, made some good breakaways. The best of the visiting forwards was Manning, another Maori, who showed great dash, and Coxhead, Mcßride, and were worthy wearers of the Green and Black jerseys. . Page was not so effective as usual behind the scrum, but at the same time was always dangerous, and varied his play nicely by remembering to send the ball out occasionally on the blind side. Sometimes his passes from the scrum were too low, but generally they were satisfactory. Hay and Grant handled well, and allowed the ball to get out to the three-quarters. The latter is an improving player, who exploits the "dummy" very effectively. He has a habit of running straight through the defence one or twice in most games he plays, and on Saturday he did the same thing, scoring a pretty try beside the posts. Oliver was brilliant on attack. He possesses great pace and is able to get into his stride in a flash, which makes him a dangerous man on attack. Ohesley, on the wing, was also in good form, and scored two tries, besides doing some splendid kicking. He soon made himself a favourite with the crowd, and at the end of the 'game was carried off the field shoulder high by admirers. : Hart, whose defence is known to be weak, opened badly, dropping passes through over-eagerness, but later showed considerable improvement and scored two great tries. The second try was one of the most spectacular ever seen at the Park, and was scored after a run from beyond halfway, the spectators standing up to watch him race down the touchline and beat two opponents before crossing at the corner. Harris was given quite a Jot of work to do, and did it satisfactorily. He has, however, played many better games. Among the Green and Black rearguard there was practically no combination. Eoper, behind the scrum, played a good game, showing initiative on attack and putting up a stout defence. Priestley and Fairbrother were not ihe equal of the men opposite them, although the former cut in dangerously on a number of occasions, Fairbrother, too, doing some good work individually. Neutze had a busy time watching the elusive Oliver. His defensive work was Quite Jtood, but on attack he failed to rise to the occasion. Scott and Trotter had a big task set them in watching Ohesley and Hart, and had very little opportunity to score owing to the lacK of combination among their supporting backs. The full-back, Connolly, played a fair game. Gate Takings.

The takings at the gato amounted to £7BO, no fewer than 11,360 persons paying for admission, including many visitors from the country, who were enabled to be present through the Railway Department running special trains. The teams were as follows:

CANTERBURY. (Red and Black,) J. H. Harris.' C. D. Chesley, C. Oliver, fi. P. • Hart, I). G. Grant, D- Hay, M. L. Page. S. F. Fookes. A Y Montgomery. Tom Robinson. J B Jackson. Toby Robinson, T. Lawson, F. Clark, A. I. Cottrell. SOUTH CANTERBURY. (Green and Black.) L. Connolly. H 4 Scott, W. Neutze, B. Trotter H.M«*W, D. Fairbrother. P. Roper. B. Halstead. ....... j7 Mcßride, 6- Codings. H. Coxhead.

THE PLAY. | When the teams took the field, a fresh southerly was blowing obliquely across the ground, which was in tine fettle. Cheers greeted both teams. South Canterbury appeared to be much lighter than their opponents, who played against the wind, but with the sun on their backs. The first free-kick was to Greens 40 yards out, but Fairbrother sent down a poor attempt. The Canterbury backs were handling nicely, and the ball travelled out to Chesley, who dropped his pass. Then South Canterbury attacked, and Priestley made a fine but unsuccessful dash at the line. The southerners were finding the wind a great help, and once Fookes cleared I finely for Reds. There could be no j doubt about the keenness of the visiting forwards. Fairbrother failed again with a penalty from the 25 line, the ball going just outside. Reds had to force twice, the second time after a long and rather stupid ground punt by Coxliead. At last Canterbury got past half-way through good work by Toby Robinson. Priestley went off for a minute or two, and the ambulance men bandaged his hand. Grant cut through after a scrum, hut Oliver was safely tackled. With a penalty the visitors trained a bis slice of ground. Tom ■Robinson broke through and restored 20 vards of it. Two men tackled Chesley when he had a chance on the_wing and Scott met a simi'nr fate. South were nushing well in the s-rums. Harris fielded a lone nnnt at the line, mid line-kicked prettily. At length Hay picked no cleanly and the hall travelled out to Fart, whose pass infield was unaccepted. Red forwards showed dash in a rush to the line, nnd after a return run by Greens. Oliver gave a per- . feet dummy, but Cheslev was fiercely tackled. A minute later Hart threw | away a great chance when he made a ' poor attempt to gather a pass, dies- ' ' ley shot a transfer in to Grant, and i ' Reds looked very dangerous. Aided by the wind, however, South cleared > once again. Spectators were picking a Green debacle in the second half. There had been little brilliant play so j far, and neither team was impressive. Giddings had an attempt at goal from 40 yards out charged down, and Neutze and Trotter, on the other wing, were dangerous, a forward pass spoiling the movement and giving Reds relief i through a free-kick. Then Greens had every chance with a penalty, Halstead j drawing first blood. I

South Canterbury 3, Canterbury 0. Oliver sent a shrewd kick over the heads of the South forwards, but Connolly saved finely. A well-placed linekick by this player brought applause. The Canterbury backs were cramped for room on Chesley's wing, failing to get clear, and Roper made a good dash along the line. Harris made a mistake near the Red line, and Fairbrother was almost over. The wind was now almost a gale. Hart found himself offside, and Halstead missed narrowly with the kick from an angle. The crowd protested when the visiting wing forward descended on Page at a scrum. Grant. Fookes, and Toby Robinson were associated in bright passing, and Oliver picked up quickly near touch to struggle over wide out. Chesley's kick was blown across field by the powerful wind.

Canterbury 3, South Canterbury 3. High punts forced Canterbury and Fairbrother had no success with an attempted pot from 35 yards away. South Canterbury won a scrum and Eoper made a few yards with a run on his own. Again Page sent his backs off and again Hart made a poor attempt to tako Oliver's pass. Eventually Oliver sped from half-way and whipped to Chesley, who, though pursued, scored very easily. His attempt at goal was overwhelmed by the wind.

Canterbury 6, South Canterbury 3.

"We will make no race of it after half-time," said a Canterbury supporter. Good following up by Koper, Southgate, Scott, and Manning saw South go from outside half-way to .within striking distance. Then the last-named dashed over wide out. Halstead 's kick failed.

South Canterbury 6, Canterbury 6. Hart fended Trotter and his crosskick was marked. For once Chesley failed to take a pass at the half-way flag and the whistle went for the interval.

Canterbury 6, South Canterbury 6.

Up to this point the South Canterbury forwards had' played utrenuously, but their backs appeared to be decidedly weak, both on attack and defence, showing no semblance of combination. The weakest man in the Canterbury backs was Hart, whose faulty handling had spoiled more than one movement. Perhaps the wind had most to do with this failure, but the other Red backs were finding no difficulty in handling. There would be no doubt whatever that the strong wind had kept the Canterbury score down. Of the Canterbury backs Oliver had been dangerous throughout, showing a great turn of speed. A good understanding among the inside backs was in evidence.

Second Spell. Canterbury were facing a strong Bun when play was resumed. Their forwards carried to inside the twenty-five, where Fairbrother kicked out. A long punt by Pago struck an upright and rebounded infield, .Noutze coming up just in timo. Oliver line-kicked shrewdly and then Chesley was downed in possession. Toby Robinson, who was working like a Trojan, knocked on unluckily when bursting through. Grant made an opening at centre, and Keds carried to the line, Greens being fortunate to force. Page sent his backs off, after receiving from a scrum, but Oliver, who was cracking on speed, was safely grassed by Neutze. So far the visitors had been good on defence thiß spell. Page was penalised for putting his hands into the scrum, some of the crowd giving the decision a hostile reception. After a while South got past half-way, to the crowd'b surprise, Canterbury showing no cohesion. Fookes shone in a dash near half-way and the wind carried a high punt by Chesley over the South Canterbury line. Keds pressed through a line-kick by Hay, but South cleared through the instrumentality of Eoper. The Canterbury backs went off across field and Grant was too clever for two opponents, but was tackled by Scott. Great dash was being shown by tho South forwards. For a minute or two the game was held up through Hay's knee going, but he kept on. Then Reds went from end to end and Page wos decidedly unlucky when the ball rolled out from a charged-down kick by Connolly. Manning dribbled his side out of trouble, meeting with ineffective opposition. Near the South line Page shot to Hart, who wc '. over, but the referee ordered a five yards scrum. From somo pretty play in front of the goal Grant secured through a short pass from Oliver, and threaded his way through the whole opposing team, touching down in an easy position. Chesley converted.

Canterbury 11, South Canterbury 6. Southgate went off with injuries to his leg. Again the visitors forced through a punt that was too hard, this time by Hay. At the twenty-five Page tricked the visitors by working the blind side, and Hay gave to Hart, who, though tackled, dashed over at the corner, Chesley converted with a fine kick. Canterbury 16, South Canterbury 6. D. Stewart went on in place of South-

gate. The Canterbury forwards, among whom Toby Robinson was prominent, carried to the line, and the visitors were lucky to get out of trouble by forcing. Beds were back again at once, with Oliver in the van, after Harris had brought Trotter down. For five minutes play was scratchy and uninteresting. Canterbury were penalised and Fairbrother kicked a great goal from a long way out against the wind

Canterbury 16, South Canterbury 9,

Then the Canterbury backs moved off like a machine, Oliver gaining 25 yards. Chesley, who was next to handle, knocked over the cornor flag in an attempt to score. Neutze and Trotter shone in a counter-attack, which broko down at Harris. For five minutes Reds had to defend, but they eventually reached half-way, where Chesley set out on a raking run. He survived a tackle by Connolly, and sent on to Fookes. who ran in under the posts. Chesley converted.

Canterbury 21, South Canterbury 9. The crowd evinced a tendency to move towards tho gates. South Canterbury repelled an attack with a freo-kick. Chesley fumbled 40 yards out, but Oliver came up and dribbled to within five yards of the line. He and two other men dashed for a try, but Chesley came up fast and registered. He failed with the kick from au angle.

Canterbury 24, South Canterbury 9. For a while the visitors flattered their supporters, Stevenson being prominent. It was not for long, though, as the. Canterbury forwards carried to lialfway. Ovor 60 yards from the Green line Oliver passed to Hart, who, with a speedy, sworving run, beat his opponents along touch and scored near the corner flag. Chesley converted with a magnificent kick.

Canterbury 29, South Canterbury 9. The game waß threatening to develop into a debacle when the final whistle went.

Canterbury 29, South Canterbury 9.

Mr A. Eckhold, of Dunedin, was -re' feree;

As the teams left the field a large number of people surged on to the ground and Chesloy was carried off shoulder high.

TEAM FOR WEDNESDAY. In the team for the match against Wairarapa on Wednesday, N. Dorreon replaces G. F. Hart, who will be first emergency back. The two hookers have not been chosen, but will be selected. from F. Clark, A. I. Cottrell, and J. Kirkland.

All players must attend for practice at the training ground, North Park, this evening at 7.30, wet or fine.

WEST COAST MATCHES. (special to THE PRESS.) GREYMOUTH. July 15. The postponed liugby fixture between Greymouth and Hokitixa was played on Victoria Park yesterday and resulted in a win for Hokitika by 14 points to 3. The attendance was small, owing to wet weather, and the players were handicapped through a sodden ground and greasy ball. Hokitika was superior, both in backs and forwards, and thoroughly deserved the solection of ten of their number for the West Coast representatives to play Buller next Saturday. From the kick-off they attacked strongly, and were in Greymouth territory for practically the whole of the first spell, during which time all of their points were scored. Hahn scored the first try after a few minutes' play, but King's kick failed. Next Houston got across and King again missed the goal, but shortly afterwards he kicked a penalty goal and then scored a try, which he also converted, leaving the half-time score 14—0 in favour of Hokitika.

As indicated by the scores, Greymouth put more heart into their play in the second spell, and with loose rushes and odd passing movements generally raised the hopes of their supporters. Brown scored a try for Greymouth shortly after the interval, and later put in some good runs. Outstanding among the Hokitika forwards were Hahn, Mcintosh, and Freitas, while Pfahlert and King were the pick of the backs, with Nightingale always safe. Rathbnn, Burley, and Caulton were noticeable among the Greymouth pack and Walton and Brown among the backs. Nicholson, at fnll-back, also played very solidly. Mr T. Mcintosh was referee.

United defeated Blaketown in a fifth grndo game by 8 points to 3.

IN OTHER CENTRES. Following are the results of Rugby Union matches in other playing centres:—Wellington—Poneke 16 beat Old Boys 12, Oriental 17 boat Athletic 5, 'Varsity 20 beat Berhampore 0, Wellington 8 heat Marist 0, Eastbourne 19 beat Petone 3. Chamiionship points now are: —Poneke 20, 'Varsity 19, Oriental 18. Old Boys 13, Athletic 13, Petone 10, Eastbourne 9, Marist 8, Berhampore 5, Wellington 5. Auckland—The competitions provided surprises, Ponsonby and University, the two leading teams, being both beaten. They are so far ahead on points, however, that they cannot be displaced, and they will, play off next Saturday week. Manakau 18 beat Ponsonby 13, Grammar School Old Boys 9 heat University 3, College Rifles 14 beat North Shore 3, City 6 Beat Grafton 8, Training College 3 beat Marist 0. Wairarapa—ln the match for the Redmond Oup Gladstone 11 beat Carterton 6. Dunedin —University A 24 heat Pirates 7, Taieri 5 beat Southern O, Kaikorai 17 beat Alhambra 3, Union 8 beat Zingari B, University B 25 beat Dunedin 6. South Taranaki—Okaiawa 35. beat Athletic 3, Hawera 17 beat Kaponga 6, Opunake 14 beat Waimate 3.

AUCKLAND REPRESENTATIVES. (ntSSS ASSOCIATION TELEOBAM.) AUCKLAND, Jaly 15. The following team has been piaked to represent Auckland . against Thames, In Auckland, next Saturday:—Paewai, Minns, L._ Hook, R. Hook, Henkin, Falwnsser, Jeffries, Eeene, Palmer, Plnlayson, Wanoa, Batty, Anderson, Knight, Catheart.

RUGBY LEAGUE.

MARIST 1928 CHAMPIONS.

HORNBY BEATEN IN HARD GAME

Tho largest crowd for a club match seen on Monica Park for tho laßt two seasons gathered on Saturday to see . Marist and Hornby play the deciding match of the season for tho championship honours and possession of the McKeon Cup. Hornby have held the cup for the two previous seasons, .and made a great bid to retain possession, but faulty combination among their backs was too much of a hurdle, and Marist won by 18 points to 15 in as exciting a finish as has ever been seen at the park. The weather was good, but a tricky sou'-west wind caused a number of passing infringements.

The teams were as follows: — Jlarist—T. McKendry; R. Bond, G. Brittenden, H. Pearee; E. Spillono, N. Gillespie; P. Clarkson; D. Ryan, E. Consedlne, P. Hanrahau, G. Drayton, T. Carroll, and P. Burns. Hornby—K. Wilkio; B. Mackie, W. Stuart, G. Woods;, P. Smith, J. Kelly; C. Woods; W. Woodgatc, A. Ward, P". Keid, S. Minards, N. Vivian, and W. Davis. In the first half of the game Slarist were a winning team all the way. Their vanguard hooked the ball in 90 per cent, of the scrums, thereby giving their fast backs plenty of chances. The backs, with .about ten minutes gone, espied a hole in U'e defence at second five-eighths, and concentrated on it. Gillespie and Spillane were breaking through there regularly, and only a very stubborn defence by the Black three-quarters kept them from registering a bigger total than three tries. The ball was flashing through the Green backs in pleasing fashion. Mnrist gaining big stretches of ground, but the Hornby chain could not get going at all, and when they did someone would kick and thus lose possession. In the second half a change came over the Hornby forwards. They went at their task with more determination, and had the Green defence puzzled for most of the spell. Gradually they crept np to the Greens' total, and with the score at 18-10 against them, they were playing all over Marist, and were hailed as winner* by their supporters. Bnt the Greens still had a kick left, and a fast breakawa-v and delightful passing from »

scram entf.od la five nor* point! lor Marist, and this won them the game. Marist should not have been allowed to get that try if Hornby had been awake, but it was a great last desperate rally, and exemplified the whole play—Marist were quick to geiie the opportunities given to them, and the others were not. Hornby gave away more chances than they took. On the winner's aid* Brittendon and Spillane were the beat backs. They were tho onea finding tho openings for their teammates and showing them where to go. It was Brittenden'a best game this seaßon. Bond, who went on suffering from influenza, was going well till he collapsed and had to be carried off. Clarkson, behind the scrum, and Gillespie, did the lion's share of stopping the Black van, and caino through with flying colours. In the pack, improving with each game, Consedine and Hanrahan were the pick, though all went very well. Their work in the Bet scrums was excellent.

K. Vivian, in the Black pack, was the best forward on the ground, but his inability to pass lost at least two tries. Reid and Woodgate also showed up in the loose. Davis was in great kicking form. Stuart, Mackic, and Wilkie were most noticeable in the Black backs. Woods and Kelly were erratic in their passing and a long way below form on attack, though their dofence was sound. Smith was the weak link. He fielded and kicked well, but his tackling was deplorable, and made one wonder how he was put into the representative team against Auckland. Right from the Btart, Harist set off in a passing rush, and for a time kept Hornby in the twenty-five. Burns spoiled a good lrovement by dropping a pass when almost clear of the defence. The first try fell to Spillane, who cut in past Smith and dived for the line, just reaching there Brittenden goaled. Smith and Kelly drove back for Hornby, and in a faßt encounter the Greens had to force for relief. Erom some midfield play, Bond secured and set off. Ho pulled up thinking ho had gone out, but as the flag was not up, went on again and handed to Burns for a try in the corner. The Bhot at goal was too long for Brittejiden. Following a long kick, Burns was just a second too slow, tho ball going into touch-in-goal as he reached it. After a Hornby rally, Marist set off from the twenty-five with Clarkson in the lead. He sent on to Brittenden, to Pearce, to Spillane, for a try which Brittenden improved. This left the Greonß a lead of 13 to nil at half-timo.

I Hornby were a lot improved in the second spell. N. Vivian made a burst through on his own, but was held up over the goalline. From playing the ball, the Blacks essayed passing but lost ground. Then with no opposition, Mackie took a forward pass offside and again the Greens cleared. Vivian soon had another charge 'hrough on his own and this time he got there, past half a dozen tacklers. Davis goaled. A few minutes later Davis landed a penalty goal, given against Brittenden for shepherding. Hornby had the advantage for a long spell, and in some hard stuff, Woodgate and G. Woods had to retire to receive attention. Then Davis set off in a good movement, Vivian followed fast to make Brittenden fumble, and Mackie snapped up a*id was over in a flash. Davis converted. The Marist men looked tired, but they rallied when in the Blacks' twenty-five, where C'arkson was very faßt awav from a serum to fiend to Gillespie to Spillane, to Brittenden, who dashed into an ooening for a clover try. Ho also converted. Hornby came auain in the last few minutes and caused McKendry to miss, allowing Mackie to nip in again for another try. Davis converted from the sidp-line. This left the final score: Marist. 18, Hornby 15. Mr E. Jonea was the referee.

The following were the results in the lower grades: JUNIOR GRADE. Linwood 16, Addington 9. Marist 12, Sydenham 5. Hornby 5, ex-West Coast 0. Waimairi 21, "Woolston 0. THIRD GRADE. Marist 18, Templeton 3. FOURTH GRADE. Sydenham 6, Riccarton 3. Addington 18, Hornby 2. FIFTH GRADE. Waitaairi 18, Linwood A 0. Ad kgton 19, Templeton 7. SIXTH GRADE A. Addington 28, Riccarton 3. Marist 39, Hornby 8, SIXTH GRADE C. Addington 6, Marist A 0. Ma/ist D 6, Marist CO. Addington A 3, Linwood A 3. Marist B 11, Waimairi 0. Linwood 8, Ricoarton 7.

WEST COAST FINAL.

(special to thx peess.)

GREYMOUTH, July 15. The senior fixture between Greymouth and Rnnanga was played at the Greymouth Recreation Ground yesterday and resulted in an easy victory tor Greymouth by "points to 8. The weather was showery, militating against a large attendance, and the ground was in a very sloppy condition. The game was fairly even in the first spell, neither side having registered any score when the half-time whistle sounded. In the second half Grey outclassed their opponents, and for the last twenty minutes of play baa things pretty well their own way. . Trios were scored for Grey by Matthews (converted by Wright), Sherlock, Petrie, Lynch, and Leach. O'Neill seored Runansa's only try. Mr A. Fielding was referee. Playing at Cobden this afternoon, in beautiful weather and before a large attendance of the publio, Marist seniors met and defeated Kelson Creek in the Cup final by 10 points to 8. The ground was heavy from the recent The game was strenuously contested and provided plenty of excitement throughout. Kelson Creek had Marist on the defensive during the greater part of the game, which was hard and fast. „ . . <*nnn after the commencement Marist wofked play to the Creek line, and O'Malley placed the ball into the hands of Robins, who dived over to score, concerting his own try. Creek retaliated and set up a hot attack, their forwards sweeping downfteld in a rush which ended in Calder scoring in a good position. Kennedy converted with a nice kick. Even play followed until H. Brown, Marist wing-three-quarter, secured at half-way to race upflold and score under the postsT Robins converted. The half-time score was: Marist 10, Nelson Creek 5, In the second half Greek attacked most of the time, ovor-eagerneas spoiling several good chances of scoring. Towards the end of the game OaMer (Nelson Creek) gathered in from five yards out and bustled over the line t« score carrying two of his opponents with him Greer missed the kick. During the remainder of the game Creek kept the Greens hemmed in their own territory, but the™ was no further score, the game end.ng: Marist 10, Nelson Creek 8. A number of minor casualties occurred during the game, the most serious accident befn° ff s «t.iSed by Griffen, Marist forward, who had to retire half-way through the second spell with a leg injury, Marist playing during the remainder of the game with ?weyf men. Mr h. Hunter was. referee The junior game between Marist and Nelson Creek resulted in favour of Marist by 10 At°BlackbaU this afternoon Marist third grade defeated Blackball by 18 pomts to nil.

ENGLAND'S GOOD WIN.

PLAY IN SECOND TEST.

(UHITBD PEESS ASSOCIATION—Bt ELECTBIO TMJBDEAPH—COrJBIOHT.) (Received July 15th, p.m.k SYDNEY, July 15.

Tn wet, oold weather, on a muddy ground, and in the presence of 44,000 spectators, England defeated Australia in the second Rugby League Test by 8 points to nil.

The teams were: — England—Sullivan, Ellaby, Oliver, Brongh, Askin, Rees, Parkin, Horton, Sloman, Fildes, Burgess, Thompson, and Bentham. Australia —Hardy, Byrne, Gorman, Craig, Maher, Weissell, Busch, Steinohrt, Treweeke, Armbruster, Yorkc, Justice, and Dempsey. Weather conditions favoured the visitors, and from the commencement they showed a greater command in handling the greasy ball, giving an exhibition of control hetter than any other seen in recent years. The Englishmen's footwork was also wonderful, and the Australians appeared outclassed. England's score was made up of two tries scored by Ellaby and Parkin, one being converted by Sullivan. The game was played in steady rain, Australia throughout being on the defensive and

never able to carry the attack Into English territory. Play on the day left no doubt that the visitors are a better team, and will return with their well-merited ashes, having won two out of three Tests. —Australian Press Association.

OTHER MATCHES. Following are the results of matches in other League centres: — Auckland—Richmond 16 beat Devonport 14, Ponsonby 11 drew with Harist 11, Newtown 5 beat EUerslie 2. Dunedin—Christian Brothers 29 beat Athletic 0, Pacific 13 drew with Kaikorai 18.

ASSOCIATION.

CHATHAM CUP TIES.

WESTERN BEATEN.

New Zealand Chatham Cup ties claimed tho attention of the Canterbury contestants on Saturday last, when the semi-finals were played off at English Park, A keen southerly wind was in evidence during the whole of the afternoon, but this did not deter a large crowd attending to witness the matches. In the early game Westers (the Hurley championship shield winners) were opposed to St Albans, who this season barely escaped relegation to the Senior B division,.By reason of their inconsistent form the Saints have always been recognised as something of a surprise packet in senior grade football. This was strikingly emphasised on Saturday, when, chiefly on account of their splendid., defensive ploy, they defeated Western by the only goal scored. By comparison with the first contest, the match between Thistle and New Brighton was a very tame affair. The seaside team took the lead early in the game, but the Scots finally wore them down to win bv 3 goals to 1. Thißtle and St. Albans will now contest the final of the Canterbury section in the New Zealand Chatham Cup ties.

St. Albans (1) V. Wostern (0): To win the Hurley championship shield with but one defeat against them and then in the Hew Zealand championships to go down to a team which had never won a match this season wits the humiliating experience of Western at English Park on Saturday. St. Albans' victory by the only goal scored was a tribute to thou splendid defensive play once they had assumed the lead. The teams were:— St. Albans (Blue and White)—D. Williameon, L. Bunt, R. Maynard, L. Lindley, J. Dryden, E. Mahan. D. Donaldson. G. Cullen, J. Tennant, N. Donovan, L. Gordon. Western (Black)—G. Colville, W. Wiok, E. Colville, W. Whittingtbn. G. Roberto, A. Ellis, L. Biirwell, G. Clements, J. Fallooa, W. Kennedy, G. Thompson. St. Albans kicked off against the wind and towards the town-end goal. Almost immediately Saints attacked. Gordon slung over' from the left for" "Cullen to miss a great opening with only Colville in goal W beat, A moment later Cullen again went through and he sent in a low shot,'which Colville turned out 1 for a corner, which was resultless. Fast exchanges featured following play, and from a corner- to Western Williamson made a good save at olose range. Western again attacked, and from a pass by Clements Kennedy shot wildly when well placed. At the other end Mahan narrowly missed with a low shot, and a moment later Gordon rapped the upright from a difficult angle. Western came again on the left, with Thompson and Kennedy prominent. Prom.a centre Williamson saved brill'mitly right on the goal-line frcm Falloon. Following p'ty sparkled with incident, the opposing custodians being almost constantly in action. From a concerted Western attack there followed a desperate melee right in the Saints' goal, but a keen defence averted danger. A moment later St. Albans broke away. Donovan placed to Donaldson, who «ent in a great shot which nearly got post Colville at the.foot of tie upright. Western had the better of following rJlay, but the Saints' keeper, Williamson, was brilliant in fending shots from Kennedy and Falloon. Half-time was called on an even game with no score. On the resumption, Western were first dangerous with a corner. The kick wae cleared. A moment later Ellis dropped in a beautiful shot which extended the Saints' defence to clear. Good play by Lindley and Bunt repulsed a further Western attack. A moment later Maynard cleared brilliantly right on the St. Albans goal-line. For a period Western besieged the St. Albans goal, but Williamson was unbeatable in goal. Then, in a flash, St. Albans broke away Cullen went down and placed to Tennent, _ who drove in a eorew shot which beat Colville all the way. St. Albans 1, Western 0. This success put St. Albans on their mettle, and a brilliant piece of combined play between Lindley, Donaldson, and Cullen culminated in the latter player sending in a shot which Colvillo diverted for a corner, which was abortive. Play swung to the other end, and for a period Western swarmed round the St. Albans goal. Twice Wil-

liameon effected wonderful saves, and then Barwell Bent in a cross-ehot which missed by inches. The Blacks had luck against them at this stage. St. Albans took a hand, with Cnllen in the lead. Prom » pase to the win?, Gordon centred for Tennant to drive in a hot shot right into the hands of Colville in seal. Western played all out for the equaliser, but the Sa:nts' defence held, and time was called with the score: St. Albans 1, Western 0. Boferce: Mr A. Hesketh.

Thistle (3) v. New Brighton (1). The match between Thistle and New Brighton, as representatives of the Senior A and B divisions respectively, aroused some interest insofar as the relativo merits of the two grades were concerned. As an exhibition of football the match was a yery mediocre effair throughout. The teams were: — Thistle (Blue and. White)—L. Gwillam, H. Johnston, D. Sutherland, G. Bristow, A. Sutherland, R. Arbuthnott, G. Cummins, D. Sutherland, J. Wood, J. Dick, J. Spiers. New Brighton (Gold and Black) —L. Andrews, H. Johnston, L. J. Anstey, C. Ward, A. Tanner, G. Altkenson, L .Graham, W. Waddell, R. Sharr, J. Cruikshank, P. Knight. Thistle kicked off, and the opening exchanges were even. An offensive by (bo

Blues culminated in Wood gaining possession, and ho rapped the upright with a shot which went outside. From half-way Brighton opened a brisk offensive. Tanner placed down the centre, and with the Thistle full-backs spreadeagled, Sharr meed through to register with a low shot. New Brighton 1, Thistle 0. End to end play ruled for a period, with Brighton the more dangerous. From a Thistle attack Anstey relieved for Brighton, and sent play down the left. Knight snapped up from Orulkshank and sent'in a cross shot, which missed by inches. A moment later Owillam was extended in clearing from Sharr. Thistle retaliated on the right. Cummins tested Andrews with a long shot, and a moment later the Brighton keeper gathered well from A. Sutherland. From half-way A. Sutherland initiated a further Thistle raid.' D. Sutherland placed nicely to Wood, who booted high over the cross-bar at close range. Good play by Ward repnlsed a Thistle left flank attack, but play at this stage was ragged. Johnston blocked a dangerous Thistle movement down the centre. Front a free kick on the right Bristow placed well to goal. Andrews punched clear, but the Scots held their ground, and from n scramble Arbuthnott found the net. Halftime was called immediately afterwards with the scorei New Brighton 1, Thistle 1. Play reopened quickly, with Thistle showing the more enterprise in attack. Two corners to Thistle were abortive, and following play was contested almost entirely in New Brighton territory. Andrews cleared well from Dick, but a moment later ha badly misjudged a long shot from A. Sutherland. Thistle 2, New Brighton 1. A break by New Brighton let Knight, away, but Gwillam easily held the winger's shot. Play went back, and froni a free kick Cummins sent in a dropping shot, which Andrews pulled .down" to clear. - Thistle continued to press, and from a melee Johnston and Andrews again filled the.breach for the Blacks. A Brighton raid lacked clinching effect and Thistle came back. From close in Wood placed out to Spiers, who shot high over the cross-bar, with only Andrews in goal to beat. Play continued to bo contested in Brighton territory.. Andrews punched en* a shot from Gnmmins, and Spiers followed with a cross whloh landed on the cross-bar and went out. Brighton took • hand, bnt the forwards failed when within shooting range. From half-way Thistle went down the Tight. Cummins centred for Wood to head through.at close range. Time was called almost immediately, wtlh the score: Thistle 8, New Brighton 1. Referee, Mr W. Campbell.

BBNIOB B OBADB. Playing at Hagley Park, Stunner defeated Mariste by two goals to one. Referee, Mr J. Jennings.

JTOIOB A OBADB. Playing at Richmond Park, Y.M.C.A. defeated Excelsior by 6 goals to 2. Referee, Mr Thompson. Thistle B defeated Bproydon at Spreydon Park by 5 goals to 3. Referee, Mr Jenkinson. JTOIOB B OBADB. The match between Western and St. Albans, played at Richmond Park, wu drawn, no score. Mr F. Ensor was referee. Playing at New Brighton, Nomads drew with New Brighton with a mots ot J goals all. THXBD OBADB. At Hagloy Park, Y.M.C.A. defeated Westcm by 3 goals to nil. Mr Cawtheray *»• referee. FIFTH OBADB. Spreydon defeated Y.M.C.A. at Spreydon , Park by one goal to nil. Mr MoLeod wae Playing at Richmond Park, Technical ware defeated by Bt. Albans by 4 goals to 1. Referee, Mr W. Smyth. Playing at Hsjgley Park, Western defeated Marists by 8 goals to nil. Referee, Mr Yates. SIXTH OBADB. At Richmond Park, Spreydon defeated St. Albans by 3 goala to nil. Mr P. O'Cellaghan Was referee. . Playing at Enenr's load, Technical A. defeated Marists by 13 goal* to nil. Mr Merritt was referee; New Brighton A '.defeated New Brighton B at Bexley by 6 goals, to nil. Referee, Mr Gudge; Playing at Hagley Park, Nomads defeated Technical B by 7 goals to 1. Referee, Mr Smyth.

MATCHES ELSEWHERE. • Following are the rosulU of matches elsewhere:— Wellington—ln tbe Chatham Cup final Petone 8 beat Marist 3. In tfie First A Challenge Cup Diamonds S beat Thistle I, Institute i beat Scatown 8, Y.M.C.A. 4 beat Hospital 1. _ ~ -. , Auckland—ln the Chatham Cup, Y.M.C.A. 4 beaf Ponsonby 1. In the first round of the Falcon Cup, North Shore 4 beat Onehunga 2, Tramwnys 2 drew with selmont 2. Northcote 8 beat Glen Eden 1, Mtnurewe 8 beat Tamaki 1, Metropolitan 5 boat Swanson 3, Corinthians 4 beat Bangers 2. Dunedin—Northern 0 beat •Technical Old Bovs 8, Hiph School Old Boys 8 beat Y.M.C.A. 0, Maori Hill 2 beat Mornlngton 1.

AUSTRALIA BEATS "GO AHEADB" (CTTITED PBEBS ASBOCIATIOB BT BLSOTHIC TTXEOBiPH—COPTBIOHT.) (Received July 15th, 5.5 p.m.) WEI/TEVREDEN. July 14. Australia beat the Samaranff champion team, the "Go Aheads," by 5 goals to B. Australian Press Association.