CANTERBURY’S SOCCER TEAM

Press, Volume XCIII, Issue 27978, 26 May 1956, Page 3

CANTERBURY’S SOCCER TEAM

From the wealth of talent available Mr Gordon Smith has chosen a Canterbury soccer team which should have every chance of success at its Queen’s Birthday fixtures, and the selector will no doubt be guided by the players’ performances then in his selection of the Canterbury team to play Wellington at Wellington for the F.A. Trophy on June 30. All players with the exception of A. Calderwood, P. Cole and C. Steele have represented Canterbury previously. Calderwood, centre half for Rangers, has been playing grand football this season, and his splendid work on defence has earned him his place as full-back, since the centre half position is filled bv the New Zealand representative A. Laffey. Cole has played in the left half position for Western, and should team well with his club mates Laffey and Saunderson. Steele is a newcomer to the Canterbury team, but he will be remembered for his dashing displays on the wing for New Zealand against the visiting Hong Kong team last year, Steele at that time living in Southland. In face of stiff competition, H. Langley has retained his position as goalkeeper and can be relied on in tight corners. F. Haydon, recognised as Canterbury’s outstanding back, was certain of selection. The choice of D. Charlton and Laffey, two former New Zealand representatives was no surprise, as both are showing good form C. Saunderson was favoured or the left wing position, although W. Logan has been prominent in recent games. This player thoroughly deserves his place as the only reserve. J. Price, a prolific goal scorer this season. R. Durant with an abundance of thrust and the clever E. Charlton should make a formidable inside trio.