FOOTBALL

Press, Volume LXIX, Issue 20957, 11 September 1933, Page 15

FOOTBALL

: RANFUKLY SHIELD MATCH CANTERBURY BEATS BULLER - A DISAPPOINTING GAME Canterbury withstood Buller's challenge for the Ranfurly Shield on Saturday, winning by 13 points to 3. , The match was dull and uninteresting. Canterbury, especially in the tacks, played disappointingly, while Puller, although the forwards showed marked ability in hard rucking, at p0 stage showed the polish which would have given it a chance of victory. The day was fine, with a high east wind playing pranks with the flight of the ball. The attendance of approximately 12,000, was the smallest' seen at Lancaster Park since the beginning of the Ranfurly Shield challenge series. Nearly 700 Buller supporters, who had travelled throughout Friday night by special excursion train, were present. • Last year Buller was beaten by Canterbury in a Ranfurly Shield challenge game by 13 points to 0. Buller ■was no more successful this year, being unable to cross Canterbury's line. A penalty from a handy position late in the game gave the visitors their three points. If Canterbury had shown anything like real form in the backs the margin should Jiave been much wider, even taking jnto account the valiant and persistent t defence of the Buller backs, which "was impressive throughout. The Buller backs did not combine in an attacking movement all the afternoon, and solo efforts by one or other of them broke down against solid tackling and fast backing-up. For the spectators the game was scarcely relieved from monotony except by pcoring movements. Good Buller Forwards. Buller strength, as was anticipated, Hay entirely in the forwards. Wellbalanced in the scrum work and competent at ball control in "concerted movements such as wheeling the scrum and bursting from tight rucks in close formation with the ball at toe, the Buller forwards practically held their own. The one department in which they lacked co-ordination and knowledge was short-passing which so often paves the way for tries from positions handy to the goalline. Territorially, the Buller forwards held their own, but they were unable to finish off attacks, although given excellent opportunities. No betK ter pack in tight work has been ' seen at Lancaster Park this year, and its breaking through with the ball at toe from tight scrimmaging was in evidence from start to finish. Such frequent bursting through had Canterbury's half seriously bustled, and his passing and positional play were sufficiently upset to prejudice the chances of Canterbury's speedy back, division. ■■ The pick of Buller's forwards. were W. McNeight, the captain, J. Caldwell, R. Gardner, and R. Gilsenan. McNeight set his colleagues an excellent example, and his leadership was one of .the biggast factors in Buller's brave showing in the forwards. Caldwell was always on tb,e ball, tackled splendidly, and was quick to seize an opportunity offered to break away. He was one of the few Buller forwards who appreciated the value of passing, and who could handle the ball. Gilsenan was a wonderful leader in the tight rucking, and with Gardner and McNeight figured in some spectacular bursts. Robertson, the loose forward, played patchily. Late in the game he showed out in spoiling among Canterbury's backs, and his tackling was good. In the Buller backs there were no stars. E. Holder, the former All Black, played well, but was too well marked by Mortlock to go far. Reid, at half, was sound, and used the line to'-good' advantage when Buller had the assistance of the wind. He served the backs at every opportunity, but Lamont, the first five-eighth, showed poor form. He took passes standing Ktill and showed no speed. His defence was very solid, but his lack of initiative on attack was a big factor in preventing the Buller outside backs having the ball throughout the game. Jones, at centre, showed considerable pace and initiative, and it was a pity that he, and the others of the three-quarter line, were not JJetter served with the ball. Hill and Connelly, on the wings, played resolutely, and their defence very sound. ,W. Greer, at full-back, did all that came his way cleanly and without bustle. His display indicated that he twill develop into a first-class fulltack with big match experience. : Canterbury Backs Poor. The spoiling work of the Buller forwards was not sufficient excuse for the poor display of the Canterbury backs. It was their worst display of the year. Mullan had an off-day at Jialf. He Was continually bustled off the ball, and his passing was slow and inaccurate.. He was against a very virile, rugged pack, and he did not stand up to it as well as he has done to other similar packs in the \iaat. His other general work in the loose and on defence was good, and he showed cleverness in reverse passing , to King for one of Canterbury's tries. Hazelhurst also did not play a good game. His handling was uncertain. His tackling was very safe, however, and he did a lot of rush stopping. Mortlock had no opportunities, but was solid. He marked Holder closely. Oliver was as clever a tactician as ever, and frequently broke through the defence with brilliant bursts at top speed. Only the solid defence of <W; Buller's three-quarter line prevented \ "Oliver's thrusts from paving the way for tries. Dunshea had numerous opportunities, but he lacks finish. He needed a yard or two more pace. Hart did not have one chance. French, substituting at full-back for Nolan who is injured, played a ma:;uirtcent game. He was called upon tiino aad again to save in the face ci hot rushes, and he did not flinch. His kicking was very long and generally well-directed. It was the best game he has played at Lancaster Tin I. this year. In the forwards the best were Manchester, Hartnell. R. K. King, Cottrell, Bowes, and Andrews. Taking . into account all types of \.M\y, the two ' best, forwards on the ground wore in the Canterbury pack—HarlmjU and King. Both played wonderful fames on attack and defence. On form this year King has been most '.i.ilucky not to win South Island honours. There is no better scoring forward in Canterbury. Bowes scored a fine try from a long way out, showing unexpected l?ace. Andrews was not up to his f?st form, but backed up well, md his try was a neat finish to the best movement of the match.

Canterbury's Record. Canterbury In S ?? red * b ? and a * ai ™t

THE PLAY The teams were: DULLER. Full-back—W. Greer. Three-quarters—J. Hill, C. Jones, T. Connelly. Five-eighths—E. Holder, N. Lamont. Half-back—A. Reld. Forwards—C. Robertson, J.Caldwell, R. Gllsenan, C. Jack, W. McNeight, J. Stewart, G. Orman, R. Gardner. CANTERBURY. Full-back—y. T. J. French. Three-quarters—G. F. Hart, C. J. Oliver, N. Dunshea. Five-eighths—K. S. Mortlock, R. Hazelhurst. Half-back—T. F. Mullan. Forwards—A. H. Andrews, R. K. King, A. M. Hartnell, G. J. Howell, J. E. Manchester, A. I. Cottrell, J. Wade, A. Bowes. Buller kicked off, defending the south goal. Buller attacked immediately and Holder broke through after picking up in the ruck, but Mullan dived back to stop him before he was clear away. Canterbury had an anxious moment right under the posts until Mullan again checked a rush and Andrews speculated clear. This brought only momentary relief as Jones and Hill broke through from half-way, the latter kicking. French was beaten by the bounce, and only a great burst of speed by Oliver saved what appeared to be a certain try. Buller battered at the line by the corner flag until Hartnell and King dribbled to half-way. Buller kept up the pressure and Canterbury eventually forced. Canterbury, in its own twenty-five, started passing in the backs and all handled to Dunshea, to whom Oliver gave a great chance. The winger sped half the length of the field, beating Connelly. At Greer he passed to Oliver, Who knocked on slightly, recovered, and crossed at the corner. Oliver was called back for a knock-on. The tussle in the forwards was very even at this stage, both in the set and impromptu scrums, and the Canterbury pack had rallied considerably in reply to Buller's speedy opening. A penalty took Canterbury to inside Buller's twenty-five, where King made a good solo effort from the loose. He dived but a tackle held him a yard from the line. The Buller forwards were bustling clear when Mullan xricked up from their toes, dummied Towards Hazelhurst, and reverse passed to King, who ran diagonally to the posts for a good try. French goaled. Canterbury 5, Buller 0. Using the wind Canterbury kept Buller penned in its own territory. Oliver was nicely taken uy Holder when attempting a cut-in, and Reid cleared with a kick. As McNeight and Jack followed through Mullan beat them to the ball and sent Buller back. Suddenly Hazelhurst speculated to a low pass and the ball ricocheted at a sharp angle to Dunshea's wing. Dunshea picked it up and in-passed to Howell, who dived over the line only to lose the ball. Connelly forced. Aided by a series of penalties Buller drove to Canterburys' twenty-five and only solid defence saved a try when Caldwell made a determined dash from short range. After two scrums five yards from Canterbury's line the Buller forwards lost their chance through overeagerness, and with a penalty French took Canterbury to half-way. Holder gained as much for Buller a moment later, with another penalty. On Canterbury's twenty-five line Buller wheeled a scrum and Gardner was at the head of a dribbling rush which French, by diving on the ball, checked three yards from the goal line. For a quarter of an hour Canterbury had defended in its own twenty-five, only stern defence holding the virile Buller pack at bay. At long last the ball came free of tight play in Canterbury's twentyfive and Mullan sent the backs away. Oliver again outflanked the opposing centre, and Dunshea had a clear field I ahead when he got the ball. Connelly and Holder overhauled him and his wild pass infield fell straight into Lamont's hands, and he found the line. Oliver, speculating through the middle, bustled Greer with the ball, but Connelly took a pass from the full-back to clear to the line for Buller. French, playing confidently, was warmly applauded when he picked up in the face of a hot rush, fooled the attackers, and gained 25 yards with a line kick. Canterbury was attacking at half-time when the score was: Canterbury"s, Buller 0. Buller used the line to press as at the opening of the first half. The Canterbury forwards, working well in the loose, burst to past halfway, where Oliver made a good recovery when Dunshea misjudged a kick and found the line at Buller's twenty-five. The Canterbury backs swung into action, but Mortlock dropped his pass, enabling Reid to clear with a kick. After a short, sharp exchange in the tight at halfway, Manchester dashed round the blind side with the ball. He ran to Buller's twenty-flve before judging perfectly a high in-pass to Habelhurst, who threw a high pass over the heads of two defenders to Andrews, coming up at great speed in the centre of the field. Andrews outstripped Holder to score under the posts. French goaled. Canterbury 10, Buller 0. Buller had a chance of pushing home an attack, when Reid put a line kick out in the corner. The visitors failed to take advantage of the opportunity, a forward kicking hard into the touch-in-goal area. Obviously concentrating on tight forward work, the Buller men were more than holding their own. In Canterbury's twenty-flve and wide out Holder had a shot from a penalty. It swung wide, but from it Buller opened up passing on the blind side. Reid sent to Connelly, who set off for the corner flag at top speed. Dunshea grassed him in time. From a scrum in Canterbury territory, Mullan worked the blind side with Hazelhurst, and Dunshea was sent flying down the side line. He tried to swerve past Greer, was caught, but managed to send a pass in to Bowes. The forward pushed off a tackier and summoned enough speed to force his way across near the corner flag with a defender hanging on to him. French did not goal. Canterbury 13, Buller 0. Five Buller forwards headea a it:sh to Canterbury's goal-line, and Lamont was very near to scoring in the corner after switching \o the blind side Canterbury was some time in clearing. Holder fielded a kick right under the posts and took a snap shot which missed only by a foot. Twice the Canterbury forwards rushed down to Buller's twenty-five. On the second raid Hartnell made a strong run for the line, but was grassed three yards from it. Buller forced a minute later and from the drop-out went down to Canterbury's territory. Holder had a shot at goal from a handy position and put over a neat penalty. Canterbury 13, Buller 3. A Buller back rush broke down and Oliver snapped up the dropped He broke clear away and ran 30 yards before sending out to Hart. He in turn sent in to King, who was pushed out three yards from the line. The whole length of the field was gained by this move. Howell went off injured at this stage, and was replaced by H. Milliken. Time was called two minutes later, with the score Canterbury 13, Buller 3. Referee: Mr E.'A. Empson. .

AFTER THE MATCH

TEAMS ENTERTAINED AT DINNER After the match the Canterbury team and the Buller team and its officials were guests of the Canterbury Rugby Union at a dinner at Warner's Hotel. Mr A. E. McPhail, president of the Canterbury Rugby Union, and also the New Zealand Rugby Union, presided, and one of the guests was Mr S. S. Dean, chairman of the committee of the New Zealand governing body. Mr H. E. Davis proposed a toast to Mr Dean praising his work for Rugby in New Zealand. In replying, Mr Dean said that he was glad of the opportunity to visit. the South Island, although he had been disappointed by the game. The toast of the Buller team was proposed by Mr McPhail, who said the feeling of good-fellowship was a feature of the relations between South Island unions. The manager of the visiting team, Mr W. Craddock, in replying to the toast, thanked the Canterbury Union for its hospitality. He added that he could see no foundation for criticism of the Canterbury Union made through .some newspapers by correspondents. Buller hoped to make another attempt to lift the shield next year. The captain of the Buller side, Mr W. McNeight, also responded. Mr E. Holder proposed the toast of the Canterbury team and Mr A. I. Cottrell, the Canterbury captain, responded. Other toasts honoured were:—"The Canterbury Rugby Union," proposed by Mr F. Keating; "The Buller Rugby Union," proposed by Dr. W. S. Seed: "The Referee," proposed by Mr V. Goodall and responded to by Mr E. A. Empson; and "The Ambulance Brigade," proposed by Mr J. K. Moloney and responded to by Mr Becconsall. RANFURLY SHIELD RULES SUPPORT FOR APPEAL FOR MINOR UNIONS Support for the appeal made last week by Mr A. A. Adams, a past president of the New Zealand Rugby Union, that the rules of the Ranfurly Shield be not altered to prevent minor unions from playing for that trophy was supported by Mr S. S. Dean, chairman of the committee of the New Zealand Rugby Union, speaking at a dinner given to the teams after the Buller-Canterbury match on Saturday. Mr Dean, said that he would not have been sorry if the Ranfurly Shield had been taken to one of the ,£eddon Shield districts, as it was his Jbpinion that the teams playing for the Seddon Shield should get away from competition for it and play for the Ranfurly Shield, so as to meet the best sides of the A unions in the Dominion. There was no better way to improve the standard of Rugby football. (Applause.) One good result was that the major unions would send teams in return to the minor provincial unions. "I would advise the Buller representatives not to confine their efforts to Seddon Shield matches," Mr Dean continued. "Play outside teams. Advertise yourselves by displaying the goods you have to offer. You have the material and it wants only polish to finish it off. I would advise all minor unions to endeavour to develop the standard of Rugby by competition with the best sides of the Dominion." (Applause.) "QUITE SATISFIED" BIG MATCHES AN EDUCATION FOR DULLER "Wc arc quite satisfied with the result of the game," Mr W. Craddock, manager of the Buller team, said yesterday. "Our players get very few opportunities to play in big matches, and these trips are an education for us —each year we learn a little more." The team realised, he said, that its backs were not good enough for the Canterbury rearguard and did the only possible thing by making the game a tight one. The team was well satisfied with its showing, which proved that its standard of play was not far below that of other representative teams. "We are pleased that Canterbury still holds the Ranfurly Shield because we will be able to come over and challenge again next year, whereas if the shield went to Auckland or Hawke's Bay. we would not be able to do so," said Mr Craddock. R. Gilsenan returned to Buller yesterday via Kaikoura. The rest, of the team will leave to-day by way of fhe West Coast with the exception of E. Holder, who will also go via Kaikoura. WELCOMES TO | VISITORS RUGBY UNION AND THE MAYOR The secretary (Mr J. O. McGillivray) of the Canterbury Rugby Union has written to the Mayor (Mr D. G. Sullivan, M.P.) with reference to the recent discussion between Mr Sullivan and the president of the union, Mr A. E. McPhail, about welcomes being extended to citizens from other cities who travel to Christchurch to attend any of the union's interprovincial matches. The letter stated that the matter had been considered by the committee of the union, and its considered opinion was that its duty was to welcome and entertain only the members of the visiting union's official party. This had always been done by the union and had been carried out in a manner highly satisfactory to those unions that had visited Canterbury. The committee felt that any endeavour to extend the scope of its activities to include citizens from other centres visiting 'Christchurch to witness interprovincial matches would be going beyond the duties of the Rugby Union. I "In this respect," the letter concluded, i "it is not the union's wish to make any attempt to usurp the functions of any other authority." Referring to the letter, Mr Sullivan said, on Saturday, that he was sorry that the union had not seen its way to accept the suggestion he had made, which was that when a Ranfurly Shield match was to be played and intimation was received that a large number of visitors intended visiting Christchurch to see it, the union (should notify the Mayor officially of the fact and offer its co-operation and invite his assistance in extending a formal welcome. The decision of the committee of the union meant that things would remain as at present as regards such visits to the city. TEAM'S TRAINING Members of the Canterbury Rugby football fifteen will train at the King Edward Barracks to-morrow at 5.30. The following have been selected to train with them: —F. J. Foley, P. G. Roberts, A. Bourne, E. Watkins, H. Milliken, J. G. Rankin, C. H. McPhail, J. Hattersley, W. J. Brown, A. N. Bouterey, F. T. J. French, J'. C, Pawson, and A. P. Cobder

THE CURTAIN-RAISER

MALVERN DEFEATED BY CANTERBURY B The curtain-raiser to the Ranfurly Shield game between Canterbury B and Malvern was won by Canterbury by 26 points to 15. It was a fast game with a lot of interesting football. Canterbury's success was due mainly to more speed and better combination in the backs. Twelve tries were scored in the match, eight by Canterbury and four by Malvern, and of these only one was converted. S. Hendry kicked this for Canterbury, and the only other goal kicked was a penalty for Malvern, for which E. Hendry was responsible. There were some good individual players in the Malvern backs, notably Innes, Bishpan, and Mitchell, but they did not have a very good understanding of one another, and the combination was often ragged. Innes is a fiveeighths with a clever cut-in and is a .sure handler. In the forwards Vaughan, Atkinson, and Ferguson were always in the van. Vaughan in particular showed up as a hard-working forward in the tight and loose, and his two tries resulted from fast followingup. Cobdcn showed plenty of initiative at first five-eighths for Canterbury, and took his passes from tsoutciey well. His method, of giving passes, however, is peculiar and slow, and would give splendid opportunities for interception to a fast opposition. McClelland, a promising left wing-threequarter, was right on his game and notched three pretty tries. W. J. Brown put in some determined runs down his wing, and Fookes plaj'ed a cool and sure game at full-back. O. Hattersley, Foley, who scored twice, and Lowry, showed up in a pack of fast and willing forwards. The Teams. The teams were:— MALVERN. Full-back: L. Jenkins. Three-quarters: J. Mitchell, J. Bisphan, E. Hendry. Five-eighths: J. Scarle, C. Innes. Half-back: W. Edge. Forwards: C. Thorne, P. Vaughan, R. Deans. R. Atkinson, R. Ferguson, J. Benny, G. Hardaker, B. Vickery. ■ CANTERBURY. Full-back: E. B. Fookes. Three-quarters: N. McClelland, J. C. Pawson, VV. J. Brown. Five-eighths: A. P. Cobdcn, S. Hendry. Half-back: N. Boutcrey. Forwards: C. M. C. Wilson, P. Roberts, W. Coll, F. Thompson, F. J. Foley, H. Mooney, O. Hattersley, K. Lowry. Malvern'' opened its account soon after the beginning. Canterbury was penalised for scrum infringements twice. Both times E. Hendry had a shot at goal and the second was successful. Malvern 3, Canterbury B 0. W. J. Brown and McClelland both made long runs and on Malvern's goal line Foley picked up in the ruck and dived over. The kick failed. Malvern 3, Canterbury B 3. The speed of Canterbury's backs took Malvern by surprise in the next combined movement, at the end of which McClelland ran over unopposed. The kick missed. Canterbury B 6, Malvern 3. The Canterbury backs attacked quickly again and at the end of a chain passing movement W. J. Brown scrambled over through a high tackle. Fookes missed the kick. Canterbury B 9, Malvern 3. Malvern's first try came soon after when Edge picked up after a loose forward rush and sent his backs away. Searle punted high and Innes followed fast. He secured possession and with the defence out of place ran over unopposed. Hendry's kick missed. Canterbury B 9, Malvern 6. The Canterbury backs combined well to take play deep into Malvern's twenty-five. Here Bouterey worked the blind side and Cobden, taking a high pass well, cut in and sent on to McClelland, who went over wide out. Fookes missed a difficult kick. Canterbury B 12, Malvern 6. The Malvern backs began a passing rush and Innes cut in, stab-kicked and caught the ball again before sending on to Searle. The ball went along the line to Mitchell who caught a long pass on his toe and Bisphan came up fast to catch the ball and run over wide out. The kick missed, making the half-time score: , Canterbury B 12, Malvern !>. The Canterbury forwards rushed play clown to Malvern's twenty-five early in the second half and from a scrum Bouterey worked the blind side. Cobden made a clever run round the Malvern forwards, before sending in to his own pack, and Foley went across for his second try. Fookes missed the kick. Canterbury B 15, Malvern 9. Canterbury was doing all the attacking at this stage and Bouterey made a fine solo effort. He fooled the defence but was held up on the line. From the resulting scrum Canterbury hooked and the ball went through all the Canterbury backs to McClelland, who ran round and scored behind the posts. Fookcs's kick hit the uprights. Canterbury B 18, Malvern 9. The Canterbury backs started a passing rush, but McClelland failed to pick up a pass which was bowled alon-,' the ground. Mitchell picked up and ran down to half-way where he sent in to the forwards. Vaughan took the pass and galloped away to run half the length of the field before scoring under the posts. E. Hendry missed an easy kick. Canterbury B 18. Malvern 12 immediately after the Canterbury backs started a passing rush and the ball went out to W. J. Brown. He cut in and sent to Pawson, to S. Hendry, who scored under the posts. He converted his own try.' Canterbury B li, Malvern 12. , Play was very fast now. The Malvern forwards bustled Bouterey off the ball and rushed down to the corner where Vaughan touched clown. The kick missed. Canterbury B 23, Malvern' 15. _ i "Wilson made the opening for Canterbury's next try, when he cut-in and sent to Mooney. He went over under] the posts with three forwards with him. The kick missed. Time was called two minutes later with the score: Canterbury B 26, Malvern 15. Referee: Mr L. Westwood. THIRD GRADE FINAL. At Lancaster Park, OKI Boys 13 beat Linwood 5. Referee, Mr C. G. Crawford. FOURTH GRADE. (B Section.) Merivale 9, Old Boys 5. Richmond 3, Sumner 0. UNDER Bst 71b GRADE. Sydenham 9, Linwood A 3. Albion 3, Merivale 0. PORTER'S TEAM BEATS MARLBOROUGH (rItESS ASSOCIATtON TF.LEUIUM.) BLENHEIM, September 9. ClifT Porter's Wellington fifteen put up a bright exhibition of Rugby in perfect weather, and defeated the Marloorough representatives by 1,4 points to 8, although a draw would have been a fairer indication of the events of the game. The match was full of excitement, being very fast' and willing. For Marlborough Lane scored and Phillips converted, and Lane also kicked a penalty. Just on the interval, Diedrich scored a penalty for Wellington, making the half-time tally 8 to 3 in Marlborough's favour. In the second half, Ball and Pryde scored unconverted tries, and just on time Diedrich got over for Johnston to convert, making the tally 14 to 8 in Porter's favour.

SOUTH ISLAND TEAM

SELECTORS' CHOICE ANNOUNCED SIX FROM CANTERBURY The following South Island team has been selected by Messrs P. Harvey j (Chrislchurch) and A. A. Adams (Greymouth) to play the North Island, at Wellington, on September 23: Full-back—J. Grainger (North Otago). Three-quarters—G. V. Hart (Cantorbury), H. Smith (Otago), W. T. Dunne (Otago). Five-eighths—C. J. Oliver (Canterbury), R. Hazelhurst (Canterbury). Half-back—B. Scandrctt (West Coast). Forwards—Back vow: T. Metcalfe middle row. J. E. Manchester (Canterbury), D. Max (Nelson). G. Purdue (Southland), A. H. Andrews (Canterbury); front row, A. I. Coltrell (Canterbury). J. Horc (Otago), C. George (Southland). Emergencies—Back: E. Holder (Buller); forward, R. R. King (West Coast). Many will be disappointed at the selection of the South Island team in certain respects. The full-back, J. Grainger, makes no appeal. He has been playing for North Otago for a number of years, and, except for an occasional brilliant exhibition during that period, he has done little to indicate that he is up to inter-island class. Nor does it appear that the selectors lacked material for the full-back position if they desired to experiment, with one eye on possibilities for the 1936 New Zealand team to visit England, as is suggested by Mr S. S. Dean, chairman of the committee of the New Zealand Rugby Union. It appeared that Gilbert, of the West Coast, and Nolan, of Canterbury, as promising young players, had much stronger claims to selection. If the selectors simply sought a solid full-back worthy of his place for this year's matchwithout regard to 1930—then Taylor, of Otago. should have had a slight advantage over Porter, of Southland. The arrangement of the backs is just as surprising. Oliver, of Canterbury, should have been easily first choice for the position of centre. He is not a second,five-eighths, although he has been tried in that position frequently. Smith, of Otago, who shows promise, is quite an efficient second five-eighths, and undoubtedly has no prior claim to be centre-three-quar-ter. Hart has the ability for the position on the right wing, but is not the Hart of last year. On form, he should not be selected ahead of at least two other South Island threeauarters. On reputation he outclasses them, and on that he has been selected no doubt, in the hope that he will regain his best form. Hazelhurst was the only first five-eighths nominated, and he deserves his place. Scandrett, selected as half, his never shown anything but sound but rather slow football on this side of *he ranges. Of the halves seen in Ranfurly Shield matches this season, he would not rank near the top. Scandrctt is 25 years of age and has had years of experience in the West coast team. , ~ The forwards do not appear wellbalanced, and reputation appears to have been taken into account with them also. The front rank is solid, and each of the three earned a place. Purdue and Metcalfe, of Southland, are rather fortunate. There is a wealth of younger talent available, showing better form. . King, of Canterbury, must be considered unlucky not to find a place, and so Gibson, of Otago. Holder will be a viceable emergency for the backs, as he can Dlav well in many positions. Apart frSm that, he has no better form than many other less versatile backs. PROSPECTS FOR 1936 COMMENT BY MR S. S. DEAN That the South Island team was selected on Saturday with one eye on the tour of Great Britain by New Zealand in 193(5 was the statement made by Mr S. S. Dean, chairman of the committee of the New Zealand Rugby Union, speaking at a dinner to the Buller and Canterbury teams after Saturday's challenge match for the Ranfurly Shield. Mr Dean was manager of the 1924 All Blacks during their tour of Great Britain and France. Mr Dean came from the North Island to be present when the two South Island selectors, Messrs A. A. Adams (West Coast) and P. Harvey (Canterbury), made their final choice, i In case of there being any difference of opinion between them Mr Dean would have been the final arbitrator. In his speech Mr Dean said that j he was pleased to be able to state that | there had been no difficulties necessitating his interference. He appealed j to those not chosen not to despair, as selections were being made with an rye on possibilities for the trip to 1 Great Britain in 1930. 11. was essential I hat representation at that time be adequate. He considered that in l!)3fi New Zealand will acinic a team equally as good as that of 1924, and | added that 'if Ihere was the same feeling of good-fellowship among n.s members as there was among the 'members of the 1924 side* then New Zealand would have nothing to fear. I I TARANAKI BEATEN SOUTHLAND FORWARDS j DOMINATE PLAY (r-HESM Association telessau.) INVERCARGILL, September 9. lk A representative Rugby match between Southland and Taranaki was played here to-day in warm sunshine, and was won by Southland by 23 points to 11. The game was a bright one, played on a fast ground, and there was an attendance of nearly 4000. It soon became evident that both teams intended to take advantage of the conditions, and make the game an open one. The difference was that Taranaki's main strength was in the pace of the backs, whereas the forwards were the spearhead of Southland's attack. During the early stages of the game, Thomas (the Southland half-back) was given the ball consistently from the scrums, but the handling out to the three-quarters was anything but good. Halfway through the first half the home forwards began to shake off their sluggishness, and then the visitors were forced into playing Southland at its own game. The visitors could not hold their own in the tight work, and were completely out scrummaged. For a while they took the ball in the line-outs and started passing from this channel, but it was not long before they were being shaded in this department also. Once the Southland backs had play swinging their way they began io break out in powerful bursts of passing, and at this game they were in their element. Taranaki had two or three very fine loose forwards, S. Fookes being outstanding, but practically all the Southland forwards joined in passing, and they wore down the opposition by ruggedness and weight of numbers. For Southland Donnelly, Mitchell, McKay, Purdue, and George scored tries. Sharp converted one and kicked a penalty goal, and Mitchell kicked a goal from a mark. For Taranaki tries were scored by Edwards, Rutherford, and Hill, Ross converting one. Southland's record of only two defeats in two seasons, is the best in its history.

NORTH OTAGO BEATEN WIN FOR SOUTH CANTERBURY In a match which was characterised by a good deal of scrambling and patchy play, in which the backs of neither side showed to advantage on attack, South Canterbury defeated North Otago, at Fraser Park, Timaru, in the return home and home representative match, by 13 points to 9. The teams were:— North Otago—J. Granger, G. McKenzie, I. Cameron, G. Murray, A. Frame, H. Tempero, E. Knight, H. Carrington, J. Easton, L. Park, A. Newlands, L. Dougherty, H. Carrodus, A. Grant, W. Laird. South Canterbury—L. Connolly, B. Trotter, N. Halstead, E. RyarL A. Provan, R. Lundy, K. Blyth, R. Seaton, G. Adkins, I. Caird. G. Giddings, J. Callanan, D. Callanan, W. Alexander, W. Duke. A good kick by Blyth put South Canterbury on attack, but from ensuing passing rushes" little if any progress was made due to lack of incisiveness, and fast breaking up by the visitors' forwards. Play went up and downfleld without much advantage to either side until, McKenzie failing to field the ball with which Connolly had attempted to pot a goal, D. Calnanan snapped up but lost possession on the line, Seaton picking up and scoring. Duke converted. South Canterbury 5, North Otago 0. The visiting forwards pressed the local backs but Provan came to the rescue with a good run and an equally good kick. A moment later Newlands intercepted brilliantly, and ran straight down the field, but when he had only Connolly to pass he kicked, and the full-back saved. Continuing to press, the North Otago forwards took play to a position from which Granger was able to pot a pretty goal. South Canterbury 5, North Otago 4. Good play by the South Canterbury pack threw the visitors back on defence again, and ij, was only good tackling that kept South Canterbury from scoring. At length, however, the ball came out to Halstead, who swerved past three opponents, and crossed near the posts for Duke to convert. South Canterbury 10, North Otago 4. Once more the North Otago forwards took play to the home side's quarter, and from a penalty Granger took a kick at goal, which missed. Provan fielded, but before he could get in his' kick he was collared on the line. A period of hot play followed, but the defence was sound. Ryan made a fine run down the field and a try seemed certain with three men supporting him. His pass to D. Callanan, however, was knocked on. Immediately before the interval Boys made a good opening and passed to D. Callanan, who crossed near the posts, Duke failing with an easy kick. The scores at half-time were: South Canterbury 13, North Otago 4. In the second spell the visitors' forwards started off with a dashing attack and threw the ball out to their backs on all occasions. Murray made a fine run down the touch-line, and he was looking dangerous when Provan got him with a flying tackle. The North Otago forwards gained applause by a number of dribbling rushes, and for some time Connolly was called on to defend solidly. Mistakes on the part of the South Canterbury backs gave the visitors a chance, but it was not accepted. . m A few moments later, however, Tempero, passing from the blind side of a ruck, the ball went to Cameron, to Murray, who went across for a try, which Park converted. South Canterbury 13, North Otago 9. Bright play by the visitors had the home team bottled up for some time, Carrodus, on one occasion, being tackled right under the posts. On another occasion Knight had an unsuccessful pot at goal. The visitors at this stage were showing up well, but the defence was equal to all demands made upon it. In the closing stages of the game. North Otago nearly got another try McKenzie, on being tackled, dropping the ball at the corner. The game ended: South Canterbury 13, North Otago 9. Mr A. B. Rowlands "was referee. Junior Representatives. In a junior representative game South Canterbury defeated North Otago by 17 to 3. For the winners tries were scored by Howey, Matthews, Hurst, and Cameron, the last try being converted by Taylor. A penalty goal was kicked by Murchison. The visitors' score consisted of a try scored by Hunter. Mr A. Simmers was referee.

DITTMAN SHIELD HOKITIKA BEATS GREYMOUTH lapzciAi* to Tint ruEsa.) HOKITIKA, September 9. Hokitika retained possession of the Dittman Shield at Cass Square, Hokitika, on Saturday, staving off a challenge from Greymouth by 5 points to 3. The game lacked interest, and the score did not flatter Hokitika's superiority. The Greymouth backs did not see much of the ball, and both sets of forwards kept the play tight, although the weather was fine and the ground dry. A Hokitika forward movement, with Muir taking the ball at his feet, appeared likely to result m a try, Lindbom, at full-back for Greymouth, failing to stop the rush. Gilbert, Greymouth's captain, saved nicely, picking up near his own line and saving with a good kick. The Hokitika forwards continued to press, keeping play in the Greymouth half, but the Greymouth backs, Gilbert, Beban, and Lindbom especially prominent, put up a very strong defence. A penalty kick taken by Davidson for Hokitika fell short. Greymouth finally cleared, and a headlong forward rush, with Jamieson, Keith, and Ogier handling, cleared right through the Hokitika defence for Ogier finally to score. Martyn missed the kick. Greymouth 3, Hokitika 0. , ■ Immediately afterwards, when the Hokitika forwards had again taken the initiative, Schroder gained possession and put in a tricky run to score a fine try in the corner. L. Hughes converted from the side-line. Hokitika 5, Greymouth 3. Play was very fast, alternating from end to end of the field, with both sets of forwards showing to advantage m the loose. A promising Hokitika movement was spoilt when Kelly sent- out a weak pass a few yards from the line. 1 Half-time came with the score: Hokitika 5, Greymouth 3. I Hokitika attacked strongly from She comimencement of the second spell, and the forwards kept play penned within a few yards of the Greymouth line. A determined run by Kirkland j saw Hokitika almost score, but Lindbom just saved for Greymouth. The Greymouth backs at length managed to retrieve the position, and for a time play centred in midfield, with the forwards striving for possession. The Hokitika backs were seeing far more of the hall than were the Greymouth men, but effective tackling kept them off the line. A free-kick taken by Davidson for Hokitika in a good position was charged down. Lindbom, at full-back, was responsible for some fine defensive work, saving his side time and again. Greymouth was pressing towards the closing stages, but the game ended with the score: Hokitika 5, Greymouth 3. MATCH AT CARTERTON \ WELLINGTON AND WAIRARAPA JUNIORS (PBESB ASSOCIATION TELEGKUI.) CARTERTON, September 9. The Wairarapa and Wellington junior representatives gave a very poor exposition of the Rugby code at Carterton to-day. The first half was fairly even, Wairarapa playing with the advantage of the wind. The first score came from Bacon, who cut through the opposition and made a nice swerving run and touched down in the corner. Burns failed to convert. Wairarapa immediately retaliated, and a forward rush saw Williams touch down in the corner. Brooks failed to convert. After a good back movement Bacon centred in front of the Wairarapa goal. Butler fumbled and Dickie scored under the posts. Burns goaled. Again Wairarapa retaliated, J. Quinn putting in a fine run down the line, and selling a dummy to the Wellington full back. He finished in the corner. Brooks failed to goal. Half-time came with the score Wellington 8, Wairarapa 6. From the kick-off Tietjens followed up and touched down in the corner, Burns goaling. Then Piatt raced almost the length of the field to score

near the corner. Burns goaled. Dickie next scored an unconverted, try, and Tietj ens scored his second try for Burns to goal, making the final scarce Wellington 26, Wainrspa ft. WELLINGTON COLTS WIM FOURTH GAME (PEESS ASSQCIATIOX TKJKJttJtJI PAHIATUA, September f. Speed, fitness, and combination, particularly among the backs, eaabtai the Wellington colts to score their fourth successive victory in the last match of the tour against Stash,-the score being 17 points to 9. Conditions: were ideal except for a stiff breeze, The attendance -was fairly good cmsidcring that the milking muem i* tst full swing. Many of the visitor* were showing signs of soreness after the hard game at Wairoa on Wednesday. Playing with the advantage of the wind in the first half, the costs test by 14 to 3 at half-time. Bush mere than held its own in the second half. Tries for Wellington were secsred toy Bali, Jolly, Thompson C2>, and Watson. Atkins converted one. Tries foe Bush were scored by Reeves and Mahoney, and Lett kicked a penaHy. WALLABIES IN SOUTH AFRICA WESTERN PROVINCES WIS (mnriD press msocmttoji—ar nacrass TSUS9HAM—tOfWO«KTJ (Received September 10, 7.31 pjnJ CAPE TOWN, September *. Western Provinces beat the WaB»» bies by 4 points to 0. Fifteen thornand were present The Western Provinces side included several Springboks. There was no score in 13ms sssscwl half, but it was marred by a detiMftstration against the Wallabies, ©wiofi to an injury to van Kysten. ■who va» carried off but resumed later. Be was clearly looking for trouble and jpa* it. At the end of the game the huse crowd surrounded the teams, the ncnt« bers of which joined hands and saaft "Auld Lang Syne." SPRINGBOK TOUR OF N.Z. IN mi RECOMMENDATION OF SPECIAL CONFERENCE * LESS INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL IN FUTURE (Received September 10. JL3I posJ CAPE TOWN. September 9. A special Rugby football conference decided to recommend the Rugby Board to accept an invitation ta tour New Zealand and Australia in ISC'. after which South Africa would participate in international tours, either at home or abroad, only at five-year intervals. The feclinu of the cwafierence was that South Africa should concentrate on developing domestic foolbail and not encourage international lours, which disorganised the Same local!v. Nevertheless, in to assist football in Australia, it was felt that this invitation should be accepted.

{WELLINGTON'S UNBEATEN RECORD LAST MINUTE VICTORY AGAINST O.TAGO (PKESS ASSOCIATION TELEGRAM.) WELLINGTON, September 10. In beating Otago by 20 points to 17, before 10,000 spectators at Athletic Park on Saturday, "Wellington was hard pushed to maintain its unbeaten representative record for this season. Ten minutes before time Otago was leading by three points, when Wellington drew level with a brilliant try. In the last three minutes Otago was attacking hotly, when Page Initiated a brilliant movement from his own goal line for Lilburne and Killeen to gain ground, and send Robins away for a 50, yards run and the winning try. The game ended almost immediately afterwards. The weather was excellent, with a hard ground and a slight southerly and no sun. Playing with the advantage of the wind, Otago outplayed the Wellington forwards in the tight and loose, -while the backs broke evenly. Taylor dropped a magnificent field goal in the first two minutes, and halfway through the first half he added a penalty from well out. Wellington attacked, and from a ruck Kilby opened up a blind side movement for Eobins to score an unconverted try. Bust before the interval H. McSkimtning made a brilliant opening for W. Allan to score after a 40 yards run. At half-time the score was: Otago 10, Wellington 3. An alteration was made to the Wellington back line, when, Lilburne joined Page, Killeen came to centre, and Pollock went to full-back, and Griffiths to Killeen's wing. There was an immediate improvement in the Wellington attack. Page made a brilliant opening to send Lilburne over, Lilburne converting. Then Lilburne put Wellington in front with a penalty, only to see R. McSkimming regain the lead for Otago with a spectacular field goal. Lilburne again evened with a penalty. Then Taylor once again put Otago ahead with a penalty goal. In the last 10 minutes Killeen and Robins scored tries to give Wellington a last minute ■win, the final score being: Wellington 20, Otago 17. Taylor played a magnificent fullback game for Otago, ranking as the best custodian seen at Athletic Park this season. ABHBURTON BEATS ELLESMERE The annual match between the Ashburton and Ellesmere senior representative teams was played on the Ashburton Show Grounds on Saturday, and resulted in a win for Ashburton by 24 points to 10 after a meiuocre display on the part of both teams. There was a fair attendance of the (public to witness the. game. The teams were as follows: Ellesmere—J. Bennett; M. Cox, G. Macartney, J. Jordan; J. Loader, H. Sanders; T. Morten; J. Greaves, ASFincham, R. Nairn, A. Miller, C. Watskins, G. Thompson, R. Blatchford, W. Bowden. Ashburton—J. Betteridge; C. DaviBon, H. McLaughlan, J. Lawler; I. Behrnes, J. McKendry; G. Dalton; E. Burgess, B. Doig, A. Doig, J. Mulhern, <A Dolan, R. Rose, A. Young, K. Doig. During the first 10 minutes of the jgaine there was no advantage territorially on either side. Ashburton infringed frequently, and Sanders missed .with a kick at goal from a handy position. Ashburton took a turn at the g Mtack, Dalton, Mulhem, B. Doig, and irgess forcing the issue. Following quickly, McKendry got possession fend dived over. From a forward rush ifUPPorted by the backs, Lawler took : 19 gpva and scored m the wsiwU

Behrnes failed with the kick at goal. Ashburton 6, Ellesmere 0. Play hovered round midfield for some time, until Sanders lifted the ball near the halfway line, and, after a splendid solo effort in which he outpaced four of the opposition, he scored between the posts. Bennett converted. Ashburton 6, Ellesmere 5. B. Doig, Dolan, and Burgess initiated a forward rush which took the ball to within striking distance. The defence was sound, but Behrnes took a neat pass and drop-kicked a goal from play. Ashburton 10, Ellesmere 5. Bowden, Miller, and Watkins were conspicuous in a forward rush which gave Ellesmere an advantage territorially. When play was resumed after halftime, Ashburton broke away, and McKendry drop-kicked a goal from play. Ashburton 14, Ellesmere 5. Morten (Ellesmere) sent his backs away in the best passing rush to date, Sanders, Loader, Macartney, and Jordan taking part. The latter was pushed out by Lawler when on the point of scoring. A. Miller (Ellesmere) retired injured, and was replaced by T. Millar. McLauchlan gathered in the ball at the toes of the Ellesmere pack and cut in before letting out to Behrnes, who scored, for Dalton to convert. Ashburton 19, Ellesmere 5. From the kick-off the Ellesmere forwards followed up quickly, carrying all' opposition before them. Good work was done by Fincham, Bowden, Greaves, Blackford, and Thompson, the latter being responsible for a wellearned try. Bennett converted. Ashburton 19, Ellesmere 10. Ashburton came again, and a combined effort among forwards and backs i transferred the game to within 10 • yards of the line, where the ball went , out. McLauchlan got possession from the throw-in and passed to Behrnes, ; who cut in nicely to score behind the . posts. Dalton goaled. Ashburton 24, [ Ellesmere 10. Mr E. S. Chambers was i the referee. JUNIOR GAME. In a rather one-sided contest, dur- . ing which Ellesmere showed weakness , in the back division, the Ashburton ; junior representative team defeated Ellesmere by 25 points to 0. I. Scott obtained two tries, R. Keeley, B. Jordan; N. Aitken, H. Hood, and H. Boucher one each. Two tries were ; converted by R. Beckley. Mr J. Mc- - Millan was the referee. i ! WELLINGTON TEAM FOR \ AUCKLAND MATCH (TRESS ASSOCIATION TELEGRAM.) \ WELLINGTON, September 10. [ The following 13 Rugby players will [ leave Wellington by Thursday night's I Limited express for Auckland, where I Wellington and Auckland will meet : next Saturday:—Pollock, Fuller, Killeen, Robins, Lilburne, Page, Griffiths, Kilby, Bydder, Lambourn, Dellabarca, Peck, Barry, McLean, Reid, Lamason, Butler, and Quaid. IN OTHER CENTRES (PRKSS ASSOCIATION TBLIGBAM».) AUCKLAND, September 10. Surprise results characterised the . senior Rugby, championship games. . The leading teams, University and . Ponsonby, were defeated by Grammar and Manukau respectively ' Three teams, Ponsonby, University, and Marist, are now level in the lead • for the championship. Results:— Grammar 8, University 5; Training College 8, Technical Old Boys 8; Manukau 13, Ponsonby 12; College Rifles 17. Grafton }2; Marist 19, Otahuhu 0. SYDNEY PREMIERSHIP NORTHERN SUBURBS WIN (UHITED PRESS ASSOCIATION— BI ELECTItIO TELEGRAPH— COPVBIGUT.) (Received September 10, 7.5 p.m.) SYDNEY, September 9. Northern Suburbs beat Randwick by 15 points to 9 for the premiership. Woods' Great Peppermint Cure. First ail for Coughs, Colds, Influenza. ' —- — z&\-

Points V$~Z' W * llin Ston, won .. i aU~ v - 9 ta 2°- won For. Agst. 8 6 17 « 1932—v. South Canterbury won }BZ~ V - Auckland,' won *.! ioor~ v - West c °ast, won .. 11 14 5 5 0 3 1932-v. Wellington, won .. 1932—v. Buller, won 9 13 17 8 0 6 i2o2~ v - won V. ?r v. Ashburton, won .. 31 7 1933—v. Southland, won .. 21 3 l9Jd—v. Otago, won 8 5 West Coast, won 23 14 1933~-v. Buller, won .. 13 3 Totals 190 66