RANFURLY SHIELD

Press, Volume XCII, Issue 27750, 30 August 1955, Page 9

RANFURLY SHIELD

Sir. —May I, as a parent of an under sst player, express my thanks to the policeman who on Saturday made it possible for the children (the players of the future) to see the match. Most of them had been sitting on the ground in front of the enclosure seats since just after 1 p.m. After 2 o’clock the later-coming adults sat down in front of the children and it was only through the action of the officer in taking them up to the wire that they were able to see the match, and perhaps take in some of the finer points for future play. I do hope the Rugby Union will co-operate and allow this again for big matches, for when these small boys get on the bank (even in front of the score-board) their view is obscured by those sitting and standing in front.—Yours, etc.. .GRATEFUL. August 29, 1955.

Sir, —While I agree with your general remarks and those of “Old-Timer” concerning the unhealthy partisanship of Canterbury crowds I point out that the demonstration provoked by the “Stuart incident” was neither unsportsmanlike nor biased. I, and others near me, had an uninterrupted view of the whole incident and I consider that it was the worst foul I have ever seen in any sport. Although the injury may not have been intended the actions of the forward concerned were deliberately illegal and unquestionably dangerous. Unfortunately the excellent referee was not in a position to see the incident in detail and was thus placed in an awkward position to make a decision leading to an inquiry. The hooting and booing were thoroughly deserved and the adverse

remarks passed were richly merited. For proof I adduce the case of the beribboned Aucklander standing next to me and booing more loudly than I. — Yours, etc., YOUNG EYES. August 29, 1955.