SURPRISE VICTORY

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31346, 17 April 1967, Page 16

SURPRISE VICTORY

Belfast Beat Merivale

BELFAST 20: G. Burney, D. Burney. K. Cassidy, R. Inwood tries; Inwood four conversions. MERIVALE-PAPANUI 0.

In a typical start-of-the-sea-son match, Belfast surprisingly beat the more favoured Meri-vale-Papanui team, fresh from its Australian tour, 20-nil. The game was marred by poor handling and scrappy forward play. The first half was dominated by the light Belfast pack which carried play big distances only to be spoilt by silly infringements. Belfast’s first points came after K. Cassidy had placed a beautiful tactical kick into the open and the fast-fol-lowing G. Burney scored. Inwood converted.

The second half began with Belfast still well in control up front. D. Burney scored Belfast’s second try after a number of the opposition had fumbled the ball in their twenty-five. Inwood again converted. K. Cassidy, who was the best back on the field, attempted a field goal but miskicked. Following up, he touched down beside the posts, much to the bewilderment of Merivale-Papanui. Inwood converted. The hardworking Inwood, captain for Belfast, put the issue beyond doubt with a try and another conversion. Inwood was the best forward on the ground and he was ably supported by G. Burney, K. Main and B. Odgers. Of the Belfast backs, K. Cassidy and D. Burney both had good games. For Merivale-Papanui, D. S. Pirie played a good game, and it was not until into the second half that he lost a scrum on either the tight or loose head. For the most part, Meri-vale-Papanui lacked cohesion and drive. Referee: Mr D. Sampson.