WIN FOR OTAGO

Press, Volume C, Issue 29624, 21 September 1961, Page 8

WIN FOR OTAGO

Counties Go Down, 17*20 (N.Z. Press Association) DUNEDIN, Sept. 20. A try scored in the last minute of play gave Otago a 20-17 win over Counties at Dunedin today. Otago led. 14-8, at halftime. and 17-8 soon after play resumed, but Counties scored two quick tries within as many minutes to draw level after a penalty goal had been kicked a little earlier.

In the 30 minutes of play remaining.. Counties enjoyed a great territorial advantage, but a spirited rally by Otago in the last few minutes was tome ’ to profit. The ground was hard and fast, and the day brillian'ly fine, conditions to suit’ open Rugby.

Both teams tried to ooen uo play as much as possible, but handling errors were common, and at times the match became a ragged affair , Davies Flays Well The star Otago player was the full-back. W A. Davies, who had a great hand in Otago’s first two tries, and also kicked a conversion, two penalty goals, and a field goal. He was injured 10 minutes after the start of the second half, and had to leave the field.

From then on, Otago faced many desperate situations, with Counties launching attack after attack, but good covering by Otago, and handling errors by the visitors. nullified these movements.

The best of the Counties •earn was also the full-back. E. H. Whatarau, who began many attacks, and who frequently opened up play from defensive positions. Otago’s tries were scored by I. S. T. Smith <2) and E. T. Jopson. the ether points coming from kicks bv Davies

For Counties, K Hori (2). O Nepla and M. Cossey scored tries, Whatayau converted one. and kicked a penalty goal.