WATER POLO BEGINS

Press, Volume CVII, Issue 31502, 17 October 1967, Page 18

WATER POLO BEGINS

The competitive water polo season made a confused start at the Centennial Pool last evening and players and officials alike struggled to master the new rules designed to speed the game. Beckenham, the champion for the last four years, began well with a 9-2 win over Christchurch, and two of the strongest challengers to Beckenham’s dominance, University ana Wharenui. fought a dour 1-all draw. Elmwood won against Services rather more comfortably than the 5-3 result would indicate. t Scores: — Beckenham » (L. p. Mclntosh 3, G. McKenile 2, L. Scott), Christchurch 2 (P. K. Hatchwill, G. Baker). University 1 (I. L. Gunthorp), Wharenui 1 (L. Wilson). Elmwood 5 (N. Jay 2, H. J. M. Hay, R. J. Hay, C. Gurr), Services 3 (J. Glddall, G. Hearty, S. Maguire):

Th* University-Wharenui game, expected to be the feature match of the evening, was interesting because of the closeness of the score. The play was tight and if University appeared to have the superior individuals, Wharenui’s close marking and determined defence made the result a fair indication. Beckenham and Christchurch had a hard, fast game. Although Beckenham won easily, too many passes were wasted. Elmwood's win came In an other rather ordinary game with M. J. M. Hay’s missed goal from right in front perhaps the brightest feature. Other results: Senior Reserve.—.lellle Park ■» Sockburn Park 2; Beckenham - University A 1: Spreydon * University C 0: University p Elmwood 6- I church 0; Jeilie Park k £ urn don 1: Wharenui 8. sock | Park 1.