WOMENS HOCKEY AT TIMARU

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28992, 5 September 1959, Page 7

WOMENS HOCKEY AT TIMARU

Canterbury To Meet Wellington For Cup

(From Our Own Reporter) TIMARU, September 4. After an exciting exhibition of fast, clever hockey by both teams, Canterbury redeemed its earlier reputation as hot favourites to reach the final of the K Cup, by beating Eastern-Southland by two goals to one at the Dominion women’s hockey tournament in Timaru. Upsets in the minor competition led to three teams being equal. Southland drew the bye In the play-off. Central Otago and Ashburton met in the morning. After having a lead of two goals, Central forced the pace, but at full time the score was even. Extra time was required and Ashburton emerged the victors, 4-3. Southland Was expected to have the edge on what must have been a tired team when the afternoon section final was played, but the stamina and fitness of Ashburton was exceptional. With no score in the first half, Ashburton took the upper hand decisively in the second, beating Southland by three goals to nil. Canterbury and Eastern-Southland started off at the same fast pace which has been typical of every match Canterbury has played. MeCaw immediately sped towards Eastern’s goal, but just failed to open the score. Early attacking movements by Canterbury almost led to goals, but Eastern switched to the other end and scored in the 27th minute.

The score remained at one-nil until 12 minutes into the second halt when, from a corner, Donnelly received from Turner, centred from left to right, and a well-timed fol-low-in by M. Thomson equalised. Five minutes later a free hit was pushed by Comer to Turner, and a flashing shot completely beat the packed circle. Holding the upper hand by one goal, Canterbury remained on top with a territorial advantage which relieved the pressure until the final whistle. McCaw was right on her game, repeatedly intercepting and initiating attacks. M. Thomson cut out her half, culminating in thrilling right wing attacks. J. Thomson, slow to start, settled down in the second half, both attacking and backtackling. Turner was still nursing her injuries and was slower than usual to the ball, but her goal was a classic. Donnelly did not see as much of he ball as usual, making good runs and centres when the opportunity arose. Fleet was the pick of the halves. Comer being repeatedly penalised. Nevertheless, she still started off many attacking movements. and Powell kept Eastern's right wing under control. Lennie's anticipation and positional

play was exceptional, and her long reach was a menace to Eastern. She switched play when a change of direction was warranted. Hall never let up and used her speed and stickwork to advantage. Mackinson, after a bad day against Hawke’s Bay, was right on top again and saved .repeatedly, appearing to have plenty of time in spite of bustling opponents. The final between Canterbury and Wellington will be played today.