RUGBY FOOTBALL

Press, Volume LXXII, Issue 21797, 1 June 1936, Page 9

RUGBY FOOTBALL

OLD BOYS STILL IN FINE FORM / MERIVALE BEATEN EASILY ANOTHER BRILLIANT WIN FOR Results at a glance: Old Boys 17, IHerivalc 3. Albion 21. Athletic 14. Linwood 30. Sydenham G. Jimmy; ide IG. University 0. Old Boys showed championship form ;n beating Merivale on the Lancaster Park oval on Saturday, in the second half, especially, attacking with precision a’ every opportunity and •tilling efficiently the determined efforts of the Merivale men to retaliate. As m the match against Christchurch, which was won by Old Boys by a similar score, there did not appear to be a very great disparity between the teams, and Merivale. playing against the w’md, in the first spell had a considerable territorial advantage. But Merivale could not pierce the splendid defence of the 1935 champions, and Old Boys successfully pressed home their attacks on five occasions. The cold and unpleasant weather caused a diminished attendance at Lancaster Park, but those who braved she chilly south-west wind were rewarded by a keen match, which produced some remarkably good football. The game on the south ground between Albion and Athletic also attracted its share of spectators. Albion, who in recent matches, have shown better form than earlier in the season, won a keen game, which was fast and full of interest throughout. At Rugby Park Linwood.. who caused a big surprise by out-playing the Christchurch team on the same ground last week, overwhelmed Sydenham. The forwards played superbly from start to finish, and the backs, combining well, showed plenty of thrust. Sunnyside maintained their place next to Old Boys in the competition table by beating University on its home ground fairly easily. University are still without • many of their best players. Old Boys, who have not been beaten so far this season, and Sunnyside. who have had one loss, will meet next Saturday,

OLD BOYS (17) v. MERIVALE (3) In boating Merivale by such a substantial ..margin as 14 points, Old Boys on Saturday gave a polished display of Rdeoy. The 1935 champions excelled in every phase of the game, and although they were defending tor the greater part of the first spell their line was not often in danger, whereas Merwale were hardpressed whenever the Old Boys back line strung into action. Old Boys had the advantage of the fairly brisk southerly brer-e tn the first half, butt the- inside* t ’tnis far a time tried to malaethe wlnSr do mo much work for them. They needlessly lost possession by kicking, and a sound Merivale defence was usually able to clear quickly and often to make ground from coujrter-a.ttacks.

It was not until late in the first spell that Old Boys established their supremacy, but they led .at half-time by 8 points to 0, the result of two fine tries by the left winger. D. G. Cobden. The second of these was one of the best seen this season. He received at the end of a passing rush when still outside the Merivale twenty-five, and shook off tackier after tackier as he fought his way down the side-line for a very determined score in the corner. His first try was also a determined effort, and after crossing at the corner he beat two opponents in making Nolan's conversion easier. Cobden had to retire early in the second spell ■with an injured arm, but he had, by then, considerably strengthened his claims to inclusion in the representative side. A tendency to tackle high is the only serious fault that can be found in Cobden’s play at the present time. Crisp Sunning by the Backs

The Oid Boys backs as a whole worked with fine precision. Spence, the halfback. and Henry and Mortlock, the fiveeighths. did not often try to break through on their own account, but their passing and running were so crisp and straight that they nearly always left their centre and wmgs with a fair chance of running round their opponents. A. P. Cobden pla>ed another excellent game at centre, and Tweedie and R. Round (who replaced D. C. Cobden) both made many good runs on the wings. At full-back Nolan was always safe and confident.

The Merivale backs were given plenty ®f chances in the first spell, but the attacks did not often get beyond the in-

Mde backs. The fine defence of Henry and Mortlock was largely responsible for this, but in view of their lack of success in efforts to break through, the Merlvale five-eighths, Forbes and Hooper, were at fault in failing to give their outside men more chances, Bouterey, the hard-work-ing Merivale half-back, played an excellent game, and was always where he was most needed in defence. The Merivale three-quarter line had not many chances on attack. Any weaknesses in the Merivaie defence must be laid at the door of the team as a whole rather than to inVdividual- .\s a rule the Merivale men lackled their opponents surely, but too fften Old Boys had a man to spare in teir attacks, and they were adepts at -tanging the direction of their thrust ■then the immediate route to the goalee appeared to be blocked. R. Evans, e full-back, was very sure in his •ndling.

p Oeavoll Sadly Missed *fter the first spell Old Boys held such comfortable advantage in the forwards •At Rankin, the brilliant loose forward. JRs able to “wing” to his heart's conJJnt. He was always on the ball, and joined i n the passing rushes backs to give the attackers the rv overlap. Altogether Rankin brilliant exhibition of the wlngS game. Schluter is another Old orward who must by now have the eye of the provincial selector, e, too, excels in the loose, but he is

a fine, hard-working forward in the tight as well—a great asset to a team in both attack and defence. Foley and Geissler were also prominent in a pack which contained no “passengers.” Merlvale sadly missed H. Deavoll, the team’s captain, not only for his fine leadership of the forwards but for his goal-kicking ability. Two reasonably easy kicks were missed before Hooper registered Merivale’s only score from a penalty just outside the twenty-five. Deavoll was unable to play owing to an injury to an arm, and Hooper captained the team for the day. The Merivale forwards, nevertheless, played with fine dash in the first spell. They were outweighted m die scrums, and the uphill battle told I ts tale in the second half. Francis, Clark, and Pedder were hard workers throughout, and Roberts, a light youngster who c ® me ln as emergency owing to Deavoirs absence, was conspicuous for keen folio wing-up. Merivale was unlucky to lose Grant in the second half, A. Bourne taking his place. How the Scores Came The teams were as follows; Old Boys—G. T. Nolan; D. G. Cobden, A. P. Cobden. C. A. Tweedie; K. S. Mortlock, S. G. Henry; A. H. Spence; W. Toy, W. A. Hearn. N. L. Schluter, B. Geiss’.er. N. J. McPhail, F. J. Foley. F. J. Bain, J. G. Rankin. Merivale—R. Evans; B. Rudkin. L. Evans E. Drake; J. A. Hooper, H. Forbes; N Bbuterey; K. Grant, A. Pedder, B Roberts. R. Clark. M. O. Stanley, G. Francis. H. Henry, R. May. Although Merivale pressed Old Boys intc their twenty-five early in the game, neither side looked like scoring until 25 minutes had gone. Tweedie broke away in his own terr’tory, swerved infield beautifully, but kicked when he had forwards in support. D. G. Cobden made a fine effort to battle over at the corner, bul was pushed out. Spence worked the blind side, and this time Cobd°n was rewarded w’th a" excellent try. Nolan converted Again D. G. Cobden received at the end of a passing rush, but he still had h'S vis-a-vis to beat, and very' little room in which to work. He fended Rudkin off and broke through three more tackles before he got over at the corner. The spell ended with the score still: Old Boys 8, Merivale 0. Round replaced D. G. Cobden early in the second spell, and was prominent for a good dash straight away. The movement was interrupted, hut Spence started it off again on the other side. Rankin joined in. and A. P. Cobden gave Tweed'e just enough room to get over in the corner. Rankin was again in the back line when Old Boys’ next try came. Round scored in the opposite corner. Old Boys 14. Merivale 0. Both Forbes and Bouterey missed penalty kicks from just outside the twentyfive line at reasonably easy angles. Another infringement by Old Boys in the same place enabled Hooper to goal. Bain led a good forward rush for Old Boys, and Folev carried on to score by the corner flag. The game ended: Old Boys 17, Merivale 3. Referee; Mr E. A. Empson. | LINWOOD (30) v. SYDENHAM (6) Linwood followed up their surprise defeat of Christchurch in the fifth round by another sterling performance in the sixth round, played on Saturday, in soundly beating Sydenham by 30 points to 6. The match was played at Rugby Park, where Linwood defeated Christchurch the previous Saturday. From start to finish it was an exhibition of fast and clever football in the best club tradition. In spite of Linwood’s fine form against Christchurch, there must have been many who favoured Sydenham. but there was no question of Linwood’s superiority. Every try was deserved, ' Linwood showing outstandingly good team work on attack and defence. Although Sydenham were beaten by such a wide margin, they played with resource and determination. But they had to combat an even more resourceful and keener team.

Only a few games this season have equalled this match for attractiveness of play. Up to half-time it might have

been anyone's match, for then Linwood led by only 8 points to 3. From the kickoff, it had been an even match, both sides playing a fast and open game. But Linwood scored within a minute of the resumption of play with a rush that devastated the Sydenham defence, and within a short period scored three more brilliant tries. There were no prolonged sieges, with hard rucking. Both packs concentrated on getting the ball to their backs, and then coming up in support. Both sets of backs were well served by their forwards, but the Linwood set'was the more fortunate in having a pack that was outstandingly good in open play and could develop attacks that otherwise would have broken down. In this the Linwood pack was much superior to the Sydenham forwards. Linwood’s Sound Defence Sydenham made a good deal of the play, and the score did not do the side justice. Sydenham, however, met a very determined defence, and the brilliant burst of the Linwood men from the start of the second spell shook them badly, so much so that mistakes in fielding were frequent. Of these mistakes the fast and eager Linwood pack took the fullest advantage. and the high score was made possible by the forwards' magnificent play. The Linwood pack was lighter than Sydenham’s, but what the men lacked in weight they more than made up in vigour and determination. At the head of almost every loose rush of the Linwood forwards was G. S. Cooper, who scored four tries. He played a capital game, harrying the Sydenham backs and supporting his own backs in nearly all their moves. Only a little less prominent in loose rushes was B. Bradley. Altogether, it was a triumph for the Linwood pack. To the Linwood backs also great credit must be given. The inside men—Field, Gray, and Robb—were the spearhead of the back attacks. They were fast and elusive, Gray and Robb using short kicks to send their forwards away, and varying their game with swift passing rushes.

Sydenham’s back play was affected by the loss early in the game of Bedelph, their first five-eighths; and L. Brown, at half-back, and J. Brooks, who moved in from second five-eighths, had to do the bulk of the work. As a unit, Sydenham’s back line was a failure, but Brown and Brooks played clever football and deserved more success. The teams were:—

Llnwood —L. Mason; L. Williams, M. Collett. H. Bunting: D. Robb, M. Gray: C. Field: R. Lilley. J. Brown, B. Bradley, G. Matterson, K. Armour, A. Erickson, G. S. Cooper, A. Brownlee. Sydenham—R. Wallburton; R. Gillespie, J. Hattersley, W. Brown; J. Brooks, W. Bedelph: L. Brown; O. Hattersley, McCammon, W. Dunlop, V. Thomas, W. Fright. T. Vivian, R. Pearce, K. McGrath. Sydenham Begins Well

Sydenham began well, throwing the ball about from the kick-off and working down into Llnwood’s territory, where poor tackling allowed Brooks to break through and give Gillespie a clear run in. Fright missed an easy kick. Sydenham 3, Linwood 0. Linwood soon took the lead. From 35 yards out. Gray went through the defence with the ball at toe. Collett picked it up and shot it out to Cooper, who had just enough length in his dive to ground the ball by the posts. Gray converted. Linwood 5, Sydenham 3. The only other score in this half was by Collett, who struggled across after a back rush. The try was not converted. Linwood 8. Sydenham 3. Fielding from the kick-off. Gray punted up the centre of the field. Wallburton misfielded, and Gray picked up the ball and passed high to Robb. The latter dummied his way into an opening and dived over by the posts. The kick failed. Linwood 11, Sydenham 3, Offside play by Bunting allowed Fright to kick a penalty goal for Sydenham.. Linwood 11, Sydenham 6. Playing fine football Cooper broke through and kicked the ball across the line to score by the posts. Bradley converted. Linwood 16, Sydenham fl. Two minutes later Cooper bustled Wallburton, and Lilley scored a determined try. The try was converted. Linwood 21, Sydenham 6. Another two minutes and Linwood had scored again, half the team handling the ball in a rush that was finished by a 23-yard dash by Cooper, who handed off Wallburton to score in the corner. The kick missed. Linwood 24, Sydenham 6. Alter Linwood had been defending for 10 minutes, Bradley and Cooper went more than half the 1

length of the field. Bradley drawing Wallburton and passing to Cooper, who scored as he was brought down by W. Brown. It was a clever try. The kick missed. Linwood 27, Sydenham 6. Bunting broke away in a speedy dash down the lme, and the ball came infield for Robb to score near the corner. Again the kick missed, the game ending with the score. Linwood 30, Sydenham 6. Referee: Mr C. G. Crawford. ALBION (24) v. ATHLETIC (14) Albion proved a decidedly stronger team than Athletic on Saturday when these two sides met in a fast, open game on the south ground at Lancaster Park. The match, although always fast, and at times spectacular, was, however, marked by little concerted play among the backs and forwards of either side, although occasionally the Albion backs combined well on attack. Much aimless speculating on either side kept the game open and for the greater part of the match play swung regularly from one end of the field to the other. One disappointing feature of the play was the comparative scarcity of players who showed any real willingness to tackle low. High tackles, pushes, and headlocks were all too common; and it was unusual to see a player brought down until he had evaded several half-hearted opponents. In the second spell this phase of play improved considerably, and the efficacy of a well-made tackle was proved severs! times. The Albion players, both back and forward, kept the game very open for the greater part of the match. Their backs, of whom Clark, Preston, and Garrett were outstanding, played well as individuals, and combined on occasions to form a dangerous attacking unit. In this they contrasted strongly with the Athletic backs, who with few exceptions, appeared to lack any penetrating ability. Eathorne and Wickham, in the Albion three-quar-ter line, and Thompson, the five-eighth, handled cleanly and ran strongly, and were always up with the play in any of the attacking movements. The Albion forwards were better than their opponents in the open play, but were forced to share the honours in the tight. They broke quickly from the scrums, and on occasions combined well with the backs in short passing. Wilson, Sweeney, and Smith were usually prominent. Athletic had some hard workers among the forwards, especially when they struggled for possessor in the tight rucks. Coll and Whillans were the best of a very even lot —a pack that played hard from beginning to end in the type of game which sorely tests the fitness of the forwards. These forwards rallied time and again, and although often beaten in the loose by their opponents, played an excellent all-round game. They supported their backs tirelessly. At times the Athletic backs were within an ace of scoring, but appeared to lack the necessary finish to their movements. Although they were not given the same opportunities for combined play as their opponents, they failed to take complete advantage of those chances which they did receive. The inside backs appeared to be troubled by the fast-breaking Albion forwards, and many movements broke down before the ball had gone past the second fiveeighths. Flattery, the full-back, defended well and found the line with kicks of an excellent length. The Teams The teams were:— Albion—-T. Preston; E. Wickham, G. B. Eathorne, D. Scott: W. Thompson, R. Garrett; C. Clark; S. Smith. J. Wilson, H. Mooney, E. Wiilman, W. Sweeney, J. Weatherhead. P. Dasier, H. Evans. Athletic —C. Flattery; J. Small, J. Gillespie, O. Scully; J. Burton, D. White; R. Dunne: W. Aitken, R. Organ. J, B. Daly, D. Whillans, W. Coll, E. Kingston. P. Noonan, M. McKendry. From the kick-off Albion carried play into Athletic’s territory, where the opposing forwards struggled hard to gain possession. The ball travelled swiftly along a chain of backs to Wickham, on the right wing, who drew the defence before passing in-field to Mooney, who scrambled over in the corner. The kick at goal missed. Albion 3, Athletic 0. A moment later Albion were again on the attack. Wickham scoring in the corner after a strong run. The kick did not rise more than a few feet above the ground. Albion 6, Athletic 0. An infringement by an Albion player gave Athletic the first of its many chances to profit from penalty kicks, a good effort by D. White, from a position in front of the posts several yards outside the Albon twenty-five, being successful. Albion 6. Athletic 3. After a long spell of indecisive play among the backs and forwards of both teams, the Albion forwards, playing strongly, carried play into tite opposing twenty-five. The ball travelled out to Eathorne, who ran round the opposing wing threo-quar-ter to score a good try. His attempt to convert his own try failed. Half-time was called shortly after with the score: Albion 9, Athletic 3.

Athletic attacked strongly after the resumption of play, but a combined movement among the Albion backs and forwards. in which several men handled, brought play back to the Athletic territory. From a ruck the ball came back to Garrett, the Albion first five-eighth, who cut in nicely before passing to Wickham, who scored in the corner. Thompson failed to convert. Albion 12, Athletic 3. Burton secured from a scrum in Albion's territory, and dashed over for a fine try which he converted. Albion 12, Athletic 3. After some loose play in the centre of the field Wickham received the ball near halfway and ran strongly to score near the corner. The kick missed. Albion 15, Athletic 8. From an infringement in front of the posts Burton increased Athletic’s total with an easy kick. Albion 15. Athletic 11. An Albion forward rush next carried the ball into Athletic territory where Sweeney dived over for a try. A minute later Clark scored, making the total Ablion 21, Athletic 11. The Albion team was playing excellent football at this stage, and repeatedly tore the Athletic defence to ribbons. Clark, the Albion half-back, received the ball at the end of a spectacular rush and touched down behind the posts. The kick missed. Albion 24, Athletic 11. Athletic rallied, however, and Coll bullocked his way over in the corner after a ragged bout of passing. The kick missed and the game ended shortly after with the scores: Albion. 24, Athletic 14. Referee: Mr K. H. Perrin.

SUNNYSIDE (16) v. UNIVERSITY (0)

Sunnyside secured a well-merited win against University at Sunnyside on Saturday, the score of four tries, two of which were converted, fairly representing the difference between the two teams. In a fast, open game, the backs on both sides threw the ball about smartly, and there were some very fine dribbling rushes by the forwards.

Although considerably lighter than the Sunnyside pack, the University forwards worked hard to secure possession of the ball for their backs, and they succeeded in obtaining a good share of the ball from the set scrums. Sunnyside were definitely superior in the line-outs, Hartland, Ellis, Pablecheque. and Milliken being prominent. Both packs were scrumming well, particularly in the loose scrums, when the forwards lost no time in packing round so that the ball might be hooked out quickly. The tackling by the University forwards was a weak feature of the play until near the concluding stages of the game, when, with a large margin of points against them, they showed defensive qualities which, if they had been employed earlier, might have considerably affected the final result.

Among the backs, Fooks, the University full-back, was given plenty to do, and was very safe. He certainly took several chances, but his neat side-step enabled him on many occasions to make a good deal of ground before kicking for the line. He was also quick to see any opportunity of running up to initiate a passing movement. Mahoney, who replaced Behrns as full-back for Sunnyside, was good on defence, but was inclined to kick too far down the field, necessitating an unduly long run to place his forwards on side. On attack Sunnyside showed by far the better combination. The inside backs, Masters. Moran, Hart, and Greer, showed a fine understanding and worried the University defence practically throughout the game. Moran was outstanding on the day. His handling was very sure, and by cutting In to beat two University men, he often left the field open for his outside supporters. Greer played his usual sound game, and Masters, the half-back, showed a great deal of enterprise, being rewarded with a brilliant try scored right under the posts.

The University backs were very uneven, which probably accounted for their failure to score. Reardon, the half-back, and Parsons, at first five-eighths, played a very sound game, but they were' very poorly supported in attacking movements. With a stronger three-quarter line. University should be able to develop a very effective attack, but there are many weaknesses in tackling which should be removed before the rearguard could be considered first class.

Among the University forwards, Stace, Bridges. Williams, and Roberts worked well. They were the fittest of the pack, and kept well up on the ball. They were frequently associated in dribbling rushes which carried play almost the length of the field, but these movements almost invariably collapsed after the ball had been picked up and sent out to the backs. The teams were:—

Sunnyside—L. Mahoney, R. Chinnery, W. Greer, W. Oliver. P. Hart, L. Moran, J. Masters, R. Burke, J. McLeod, J. Hartland, W. Ellis, H. Milliken, S. Pablecheque, G. Asher, B. Newton.

University—E. B. Fooks. J. D. Carmichael, B. Overton, M. Heenan, E. Malley. G. A. Parsons, P. Reardon, I. O. Stace, P. Bridges, A. Monoghan. E. Kalaupher, C. Williams, C. Weston, P. Roberts. L. Martin. From the kick-off Sunnyside pressed hard, and for a period held University well within their own twenty-five. Both sides were working hard for an advantage

and the play was very open. Greer made an opening for Sunnyside and sent the ball on to Hart, who was tackled a few feet short of the line, and University relieved the pressure. Shortly afterwards Greer broke away again, and sent the ball out to Chinnery, who scored fairly well out. Hart’s kick failed. Sunnyside 3, University 0. For the remainder of the spell play was very even. Sunnyside were several times within a short distance of scoring, but Chinnery was inclined to rely too much upon his side-step, and was caught in possession, enabling the University backs to break clear. Offside play by Sunnyside gave University a shot at goal, but Stace’s kick failed. In the second spell play was even faster, both sides striving hard to score tries. The first came through a strong attack by the Sunnyside forwards, who held University practically on their goal line, and Milliken went over for a smart try. Greer converted. Sunnyside 8, University 0. Shortly afterwards Moran gathered up a deep throw-in by Oliver to make a brilliant run, scoring under the posts. Greer converted. After another spell of even play Masters whipped the ball up from a scrum, and cutting through the University defence scored neatly by the posts. Greer’s kick struck the upright and rebounded. 'The game ended without further score: Sunnyside IC, University 0. Mr W. Blazey refereed. SECOND GRADE Albion 6 beat Merivale 3. Referee, Mr L. W. Clarkson. High School Old Boys 24 beat University 9. Referee, Mr C. R. McCallum. Linwood 16 beat Kaiapoi 9. Referee, Mr T. H. Wiggs. Christchurch 14 beat West Old Boys 3. Referee, Mr A. E. Empson. Athletic 18 beat New Brighton 0. Referee, Mr D. F. Johnston. Training College 41 beat Sydenham 0. Referee. Mr E. Osmers. Technical Old Boys 15 beat Old Collegians 3. Referee, Mr J. R. Hampton. THIRD GRADE Section A St. Andrew’s Old Boys 21 beat Christchurch 9. n Sunnyside 17 beat Technical Old Boys 0. Albion 6 beat Sydenham 3. Training College 12 beat R.N.V.R. «. Merivale 22 beat Beckenham 0. Linwood 9 drew with High School Old Boys 9. Section B St. Andrew’s College 9 beat University 0. Albion 8 beat St. Bede's College 6. Christ’s College 23 beat West Old Boys 6. Boys’ High School 34 beat Athletic 0. FOURTH GRADE High School Old Boys 26 beat Kaiapoi 3. Sydenham 19 beat Beckenham It. Merivale 9 beat Ninth Battery 3. Bromley 27 beat Linwood 0. Richmond 8 beat Christchurch 3. Old Collegians 14 beat Technical Old Boys 13. FIFTH GRADE Linwood 14 beat Boys’ High School 3. West Christchurch Old Boys 47 beat Templeton 0. Albion 8 beat West Christchurch High School 3. Athletic 23 beat Christchurch 0. Sydenham 37 beat Merivale 0. SIXTH GRADE High School Old Boys 47 beat Christ’s College 3. Belfast 10 beat Linwood 3. UNDER 18 GRADE Linwood 13 beat Technical Old Boys 6. Athletic 12 beat High School Old Boys 8. Christchurch 23 beat Merivale 0. Sydenham 11 beat Beckenham 8. UNDER 9 STONE Linwood 20 beat Technical Old Boys A 0. Merivale 8 beat Technical Old Boys B 0. Boys' High School 13 beat Albion 0. UNDER 8 STONE Papanui 17 beat Merivale 0. UNDER 7 STONE Sydenham 9 beat Linwood 5. Richmond 6 beat Athletic 0. I Technical Old Boys 31 beat Beckenham 0. north canterbury subunion There were several interesting matches in the North Canterbury Rugby Football Sub-Union’s competitions on Saturday afternoon. Matches in the lower grades marked the beginning of the official competition for these teams. Results were as follows; — Senior Grade—North Canterbury 20, Cust 3; Kowai 8, Tuahiwi 3; Glenmark 3, Oxford 0. Junior Grade—Amberley 15, Glenmark 7; Loburn 16. North Canterbury 0. Third Grade —Rangiora High School 14, Oxford 4. Fourth Grade—Loburn 18, Rangiora High School 3. Positions of senior teams after the first three matches are as follows: —Glenmark, 3 points, Kowai, 2. North Canterbury 2, Cust li, Tuahiwi J, Oxford 0. Draw for Next Saturday

Following is the draw for next Saturday:

Senior Grade—Glcnmark v. Tuahiwi. at Glenmark; Kowai v. Oust, at Kowai; Oxford v. North Canterbury, at Oxford. Junior Grade—Cust v. Loburn, at Cust; Glenmark v. North Canterbury, at Glcnmark; Ohoka v. Amberley, at Ohoka; Woodend, a bye. Third Grade—North Canterbury x. Oxford, at Rangiora; Cust v. Rangiora High School, at Cust. Fourth Grade —Loburn v. North Canterbury, at Loburn; Rangiora High School, a bye. IN OTHER CENTRES U’HESS ASSOCIATION TELEGRAMS.) AUCKLAND, May 31. Ponsonby 27, Grammar 20; Marist 54, North Shore 3; College Rifles 9, Manukau 8; Otahuhu 22, University 8. WELLINGTON, May 31. College Old Boys 13, Eastbourne 6; Athletic 10, Wellington 8; Poneke 11. Marist 3; Petone 3, Hutt 0. WANGANUI, May 31. Although their forwards dominated play for three parts of the match, the Wanganui Rugby representatives were beaten by Taranaki on Saturday by 17 points (four tries, one penalty, and a conversion) to 9 (two penalties and one try). Lack of purpose in the backs was mainly responsible for presenting Taranaki with the win. NEW PLYMOUTH, May 31. The Wanganui B Rugby representatives were defeated by Taranaki B by 18 points to 6. MASTERTON, May 31. Red Star 12, Old Boys 5; Greytown 3, Featherston 0; Martinborough 14, Gladstone 12; Carterton 14, Dalefleld 3. DUNEDIN, May 31. Pirates 12, University A 8; Kaikorai 17, Alhambra (5; Southern 41, University B 0; Union 22, Taieri 14; Zingari 11. Dunedin 8. NEW SOUTH WALES BEATS QUEENSLAND (UNITED PRESS ASSOC! ATIOX— CO PIRIGIIT.) BRISBANE, May 31 In a return Rugby match. New South Wales beat Queensland by 20 points to RUGBY LEAGUE HORNBY’S CHANCE OF CHAMPIONSHIP LINWOOD FAILS AGAINST STRONG ATTACK Results:— Hornby 31, Linwood 3. Sydenham 14, Waimairi 5. Addington a bye.

The last matches in the first round of the Canterbury Rugby League’s senior competition were played on Saturday on firm grounds. Hornby met Linwood at Sydenham Park, and by strong running and clever passing made Linwood. quite a good. side, look almost second rate. Hornby was by far superior in every move and is already looked on as the champion team of the year. The team to beat it will have to be very good. Waimairi led at the interval in its match against Sydenham, but in the second half Sydenham had most of the play and was definitely better, at times showing some excellent passing rushes. The following table gives the positions of the teams:—

HORNBY (31) V. LINWOOD (3) Within 10 minutes of the beginning Linwood made such a determined series of attacks, well executed and with strong support, that it seemed as if it was going to make a bold bid to defeat Hornby. But this success was short-lived, and gradually Homby took the upper hand. Linwood defended for almost all the rest of the game. Three out of four scrums were won by Hornby, and as McCarthy and Garrett were at the top of their form, and the green five-eighths were weak, it was comparatively easy for the speedy Hornby three-quarter line to race in for tries. It was more than a case of the Linwood defence being beaten—it was overwhelmed. The only members of the losing side up to form were Fairman, at half-back, who played splendidly, and Smith, who worked desperately to rally his forwards. In such a well-balanced team as Hornby no-one stands out. Many of the team’s passing rushes were flawless, and all the players have speed. Hendry’s three tries, one of which was in the highest class, mark him as an ideal three-quarter, and Garrett was always watching his chance. He cut in stylishly and “sold the dummy” almost as he wished.

The teams were as follows; Hornby—M. H. Standeven; R. Hendry, R, Timms J. Stuart; C. Taylor, J. Garrett: J- McCarthy; W. Vivian, J. Airey, W, Woodgate, W. Dunn, H. Standeven, N, Vivian.

Linwood—F. J. Stevens; R. Whitley, F. Ayres, C. H. Priest; F. Logie, F. Allan; C. H. Fairman; H. Lawrence, H. Stevens, M. Smith, V. Reid, T. Wesley, L. A. Stuart. An energetic opening promised a bright game. Hornby's first dash was countered smartly and Hornby was very quick to turn back a thrust by the Linwood backs, iurst points came when M. Standeven sent oyer a penalty goal. Hornby 2, Linwood 0. btrong running by Whitley had Hornby in trouble. He came from the wing into the centre and gave to Barnard, who made further ground before sending to Priest tor a try. Logie missed at goal. Linwood 3, Hornby 2.

An easy penalty goal to M. Standeven gave Hornby the lead again. Hornby 4, Larwood 3. An excellent loose rush led by Woodgate, a smart pick up, and transter to McCarthy saw the half-back over. The kick failed. Hornby 7, Linwood 3. A Penalty against Falrman was sent over by M. Standeven. Hornby 9, Linwood 3. From a scrum McCarthy was fast and Garrett passed the defence easily with a cut-in before giving to Stuart. who raced over wide out. Hornby 12. Linwood

Hornby was winning a big majority ot the scrums, thus making McCarthy’s' job comparatively easy. A fast transfer from McCarthy to Garrett, and a brilliant cut-in brought another try. M. Standeven converted. Hornby 17, Linwood 3. A long kick was fielded by M. Standeven, who ran up and gave to Garrett, to Dunn, who crossed. Hendry missed, leaving the halftime scores: Hornby 20, Linwood 3. With the wind, Linwood made the play for a time, but soon Hornby were back, A clearing kick by Stevens was taken by Stuart, who sent across to Garrett, to Hendry, who changed direction three times in a thrilling diagonal run which ended over the line. Hendry missed at goal. Hornby 23, Linwood 3. The next try was almost solely from work by Hendry. He shot from the loose, ball at toe, picked up when clear, and raced across. M. Standeven goaled. Hornby 28, Linwood 3. The speed of McCarthy and Garrett from a scrum left Linwood at a standstill, and when the ball reached Hendry he crossed fairly easily in a corner. Linwood spurted in the last minute but to no purpose, the game ending;

Hornby 31, Linwood 3 Referee, Mr H. A. King.

SYDENHAM (14) v. WAIMAIHI (5) Through the late arrival of the Waimairi team, the game between Sydenham and Waimairi was delayed a quarter of an hour. The first spell was fairly even, but the Waimairi forwards were prominent and were mainly responsible for the slight margin at the interval. However, the Sydenham team revived in the second spell and overwhelmed Waimairi in both backs and forwards. There is no doubt that Sydenham is developing into a good team, and it will be a hard proposition I for the leading teams from now on. R. i Scott, for Sydenham, was the best back. He made some good openings and backed up well throughout the match. The following were the teams:— Sydenham—N. Pettitt; P. Morrissey, I. Wilson, R. Chaston; R. Scott. W. Raistrick; L. Messervey; E. Grimes, E. Hamberger, C. Blackler, T. Carey, J. Clancy, S. Goussemett. Waimairi—H. Davis; F. Steer, M. Davis. C. Brimble; D. Broad, P. Smith; E. Nee; F. Warren, R. Sneddon, F. Lang, L. Sneddon, H. Shirley. After a period of even play, in which the Waimairi forwards looked dangerous. Messervey sent on to Scott, who put in a good run and then passed to Morrissey. who was grassed near the ling. Soon after. M. Davis ran right through from half-way to score the first try for Waimairi. H. Davis converted. Play followed in Waimairi territory, and from a scrum near the line Carey went over for an unconverted try. At halftime the score was: Waimairi 5, Sydenham 3. In the second spell Sydenham attacked from the start, but the Waimairi defence was solid. However. Hembergcr threw out a long pass and Chaston potted a goal. Sydenham 5, Waimairi 5. Sydenham continued to hold the advantage, and after a neat passing rush Clancy went over for an unconverted try. Sydenham 8. Waimairi 5. Sydenham continued to attack, but free kicks relieved Waimairi. Then from a loose rush T. Carey scored, but the kick missed. Sydenham maintained the pressure, and towards the end Hamberger scored a well-earned try. which was not converted. Sydenham was still attacking when the final whistle sounded with the score: Sydenham 14. Waimairi 5. Referee: Mr P. O’Connor. Lower grade matches resulted;— JUNIOR GRADE Riccarton 10, Addington 5. THIRD GRADE Linwood 13, Sydenham 8 Whitcombes 39. St. Joseph s 0. Woolston 20, Addington 10. FOURTH GRADE Waimairi A 25, Waimairi B 16. Riccarton 33, Linwood 3. FIFTH GRADE Sydenham A 87. Linwood 0. SIXTH GRADE Sydenham 6, Waimairi 5. St. Joseph’s 10, Hornby 0. SEVEN-A-SIDE St. Joseph’s 32. Addington 8. Linwood A 6, Linwood B 3. IN OTHER CENTRES (PRESS association telegrams.) AUCKLAND, May 31. Mount Albert 23. Manukau 18; Devonport 29, City 15; Marist 14, Ponsonby 11, Richmond 19, Newton 14. ENGLAND BEATS SYDNEY MARGIN OF TWO POINTS VISITING TEAM SHOWS PROMISE (EXITED PRESS ASSOCIATION—COPYRIGHT.) SYDNEY, May 30. The English team defeated Sydney at Rugby League by 15 points to 13. Though the margin was small, the Englishmen were rich in promise, considering that they played the majority of the test probables in the opening match of the tour. The attendance was 52,489, and the gate £4541 11s 6d.

The game was mainly a keen and robust struggle between the forwards. The outside backs had few opportunities because of the excellent cover of the defence. The exchanges were often hectic, and Hodgson was cautioned three times and Atkinson once.

England’s weakness was in the halfback, McCue’s breaks from the scrum being generally lateral. The half-time score was Sydney 5, England 4. After securing from 30 per cent, of the scrums, England rallied, dominating most of the second half, but tired towards the end. Hodgson was the outstanding forward, and initiated the best collaborative move from the loose, Brogden, Ellerington, Risman, and Morley handling in succession. The winger, a former British Rugby Union player, crossed the line to score. McKinnon and Brown were well watched, and Ridley was often out of position.

Silcock and Armitt were the toughest ruckers. Ellerlngton was speedy in the loose. McCue was subdued, and failed to give Brogden the necessary service. Morley and Smith had few chances, but were impressive wingers, and Brough was an enterprising full-back. Re outranged Beaton in punting. There was an exciting finish, through the desperate efforts of the Englishmen, who persisted in playing; the Australian type of open football. Hodgson missed a field goal by

inches a few minutes before tire bell. The teams were:— England—J. Brough, J. Morley, A. Atkinson, A. Risman, S. Smith, S. Brogden, T. McCue, H. EUerington, M. Hodgson, G. H. Exley, N. Silcock, T. Armitt, A. Wood. Sydney-Beaton, Ridley, Brown, McKinnon, Hurley, Norman, Mork, Johnston, Pearce. Lewis, Pdrter, Fairhall, Stehr. The scorers for England were Morley, a try, Hodgson and Risman each three goals. For Sydney, Hurley, Brown, and McKinnon tries; Brown and McKinnon goals.

Points for the Championship Championship points are now as fol* it»ws; — P. W. L. D, . F. A. Pts. *Old Boys . . 5 5 0 0 64 18 5 Sunnysidc 6 5 1 0 68 33 5 Albion 6 4 2 0 66 62 4 •Christchurch 5 3 2 0 70 42 3 Merivaie 6 o 3 1 84 59 2-V ' Linwood 5 2 3 0 59 60 2 ‘Athletic 5 0 3 2 46 71 1 •Sydenham 5 1 4 0 37 84 1 •University ., 5 0 4 1 37 102 i •Have had their bye.

P. W. L. F. A. Pts. Hornby .. 4 4 — 86 30 8 Addington .. 4 3 1 99 45 6 Llnwood .. 4 2 2 36 68 4 Sydenham .. 4 1 3 38 58 2 Waimalri .. 4 — 4 33 88