ANOTHER VIEW

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29240, 25 June 1960, Page 14

ANOTHER VIEW

‘Underdogs Could

Bite 9 (From NOEL HOLMES, "Auckland Star" special correspondent, bu arrangement with the N.Z.P.A.) ' JOHANNESBURG, June td. I ain not too happy about the current fashion of making out the Springboks are complete underdogs for the first Rugby test here tomorrow, ’because underdogs have a habit of biting unexpectedly. But 1 , have to say that the most suspicious look at the records suggests New Zealand should win. I have heard it suggested New Zealand can be beaten by the Natal pattern of attack, but frankly I cannot remember any specific subtlety about Natal's approach. They x played vigorous orthodox football and held us well, although New Zealand played in effect with 13 men in the second spell and its luck with kicking was atrocious. However, a rather more important point is that Natal marked the turning point in the tour. Up until then New Zealand had been playing rather loosely, probably as a result of the easy games in 'Australia, and the backs tn particular. had been somewhat a tricky lot. trying to turn on something spectacular every time they saw the ball.

Subsequently the All Blacks have tightened up and have beaten team* which I regard as superior to Natal by reasonable margins. I was Impressed by the ability of the Springbok backs at their fins' trial and acknowledge them readily as an attacking force. But I thought the South African forwards were a trifle lumbering and even had a sneaking suspicion one or two were not completely fit They will hold New Zealand in set scrums, but it is possible the All Blacks will slowly gain mastery up front In all other department*. If this should happen the gsm* might be less tight, at least in the final stages, than has been generally anticipated. Ellis Park has permanent and temporary stands encircling the eround offering accommodation for 74.000 South Africans, some of whom will have paid more than £8 on the black market for their seat*. Th* turf Is dry, sprintty and to New Zealand eyes a trifle shaggy for • first-class fixture.