N.Z. TEAM LEAVES

Press, Volume CVII, Issue 31519, 6 November 1967, Page 15

N.Z. TEAM LEAVES

Playing In Noumea (N.Z. Press Association) AUCKLAND. The New Zealand second soccer side flew from Auckland on Saturday for Noumea, where it will play New Caledonia on Wednesday and an Australian under-23 side on Friday. “The New Caledonians upset Auckland with their body checking and jersey pulling in Noumea last winter, but I believe this New Zealand side has enough experienced players to cope with a similar situation,” said the team coach, Mr R. C. Carter, of Canterbury. “It’s no good letting these type of players dominate you. You’ve got to give them back as much . as you get, without getting dirty,” he said. “We will go out to play clean open soccer, but if they start body checking, then I will tell my players to do the same.” Mr Carter said the New Zealand side will be at an advantage because New Caledonia s drawn to play Australia in the first match of the series and this would give his players a chance to watch their oppon ents’ every move. “I will tell each member of the New Zealand side to watch the man he will be marking, assess his strength and weaknesses and then report back to me at the end of the match. “We will be striving not to lose a game, and a win against New Caledonia and a draw against the Australians would be a most satisfying result,” ne said. The New Zealand side will return next Saturday.