SHIRLEY NOT AT BEST

Press, Volume CVII, Issue 31381, 29 May 1967, Page 16

SHIRLEY NOT AT BEST

SHIRLEY Hi B. Gosney a try, I. Behrnes two penalty goals and a conversion. SYDENHAM 3: A. J. Howard a penalty goal. Although it scored its fifth successive win, Shirley was singularly unimpressive in beating Sydenham at Rugby Park. The performances of both teams were riddled with errors. The reluctance of the Sydenham players, in particular, to go down on the ball persuaded the Shirley backs to kick regularly, and Sydenham was of like mind. There were more than enough marks to pass a school certificate examination. Shirley, stronger than Sydenham in the forwards, showed reasonable form only in the last 20 minutes and in this period Gosney, a flanker, scored the only try of the match. Gosney was one player who improved his reputation. Fast, lively and intelligent, he played spendidly. After a bad start, A. Dunlop, Sydenham’s full-back, made some fine saves and ran strongly, but lack of possession and handling errors drew the teeth of T. Tongatule and G. Hay, three-quarters of more than average ability. Howard applied himself diligently in a pack which was below its best. The Shirley backs did little of note, but the forward, when they finally found form, looked well-drilled and competent. Referee: Mr J. Luke.