Rugby Without Rancour

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31150, 29 August 1966, Page 10

Rugby Without Rancour

It was Rugby without rancour and without regrets at Lancaster Park on Saturday. The third test between the British Isles and New Zealand demonstrated vividly that Rugby football, even at this highest level of endeavour, can still be enjoyed wholeheartedly by players and spectators. It was a refreshing display by both teams, free of the unpleasant incidents which marked several of the earlier matches of the tour and which have also occurred far too often in New Zealand’s domestic Rugby. The test match could hardly have been more keenly or cleanly fought; but it was without the grim attrition of many international games. The play flowed exhilaratingly, both sides prepared to take risks. If a little less spectacular than their opponents, the All Blacks played with skill, purpose, and efficiency. The victory, which gave them the test series, was thoroughly deserved; it was a performance which brought much credit to the players and to the game. But there must be genuine sympathy for the Lions. The margin of 13 points by which they lost was no true measure of the abilities of the teams on the day. The Lions often showed a distinctive brilliance. Several times they beat the All Blacks’ defence, only to lose tries through handling errors. This must have been bitterly disappointing to a team which has had more than its share of frustrations, disappointments, and difficulties. Yet in defeat there was honour—honour for the team, and for the game.