Chch Excels In Open Game

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30752, 17 May 1965, Page 16

Chch Excels In Open Game

CHRISTCHURCH 37: W. M. Birtwistle <4), D. A. Arnold. E. R. Conder and G. J. Waterreus. tries; G. J. Waterreus three penalty goals and two conversions, G, T. Barrett a penalty. UNIVERSITY B 12: B. Crisp try; D. G. Gaffikin (2) and D. R. Banks penalties.

Christchurch eventually ran University B ragged in a fast flowing and enjoyable match at Lancaster Park South, but not before University had administered a few shocks.

Although Christchurch won, 37-12, it was 12-all at half-time and at one stage it seemed as if University were going to cause the upset of the season. The students went on to the field with a new half-back and a loose forward at centre, and several other usual players were absent. But it was not until Arnold, who had found G. Nottage more than a handful at second fiveeighths, moved to centre that Christchurch took control. Birtwistle, with several brilliant runs, scored four tries and Waterreus, who was completely astray in the first half, recovered to kick 13 points and score a try.

University began strongly and the game Immediately took the pattern of passing rushes. Arnold late-tackled Nottage and Banks opened the scoring with a penalty right in front. Play was very even in the first half and every time Christchurch scored a try Gaffikin kicked a penalty.

After" half-time University ran out of steam and Christchurch began to score almost at will. Conder, Arnold and Birtwistle made full use of the ball but B. A. Watt was well smothered by the University loose forwards. The Christchurch forwards played much better after halftime, with T. B. Tuhuru and

R. M. Wainohu always prominent. However, Gaffikin was line-out king and the student forwards played vigorously in the loose, with J. Caldwell prominent in defence.

I. Coulter, at half-back, played extremely well in his first senior game and Nottage and P. Black ran well, Nottage also kicking well. Conder played his best game of the season and the Christchurch back line maintained its good reputation. This was probably the most open game of the season so far and was notable for the absence of line-outs. Referee: Mr A. F. Gurnsey.