Penalty Gives Albion Draw In Last Minute

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31660, 22 April 1968, Page 14

Penalty Gives Albion Draw In Last Minute

ALBION 6: J. Newlove at try, D. C. Leary a penalty. MARIST 6: P. Costello a try, B. McAlister a penalty. On the mud and slush of Lancaster Park South, Albion could do no more than draw with the lowly Marist side. Although most of the play throughout the game was in Marist’s territory, only in the last minutes did Albion draw level with a penalty by Leary. An air of desperation had pervaded the play and all the attacks mounted by Albion had foundered on a stubborn defence. Against the wind, Albion started the game in fine style. The forwards won line-out and rucks cleanly and competently and the backs ran and passed with crisp precision. But the conditions were ' against this style of play, and the only reward was a try late in the spell after a break and kick through by J. Adams. Marist took the few opportunities presented to it but the lead at half-time of six points to three seemed barely enough. The Marist forwards lifted their play in the second spell and gave a fine display of defensive football. Time after time in desperate situations the ball was won and put into touch. Albion, on attack throughout, was denied the ball at crucial moments and at other times mishandling and hesitation in the outside backs cost chances. For Marist, J. Burns was a force in the line-out and B.

Ramsay and K. Cowan stood out for their all-round play. The half-back. C. Frank, gave good support, his quick kicks seldom failing to find touch. D. Warren, M. Eagle and P. Sands were the best of the Albion forwards who started well but faded towards the end. The Albion backs, on a dry day, will be a potent force. The inside trio of G. Woods, D. Condon and Adams show a fine understanding. The three-quarter line lacked penetration and it was only when Leary came in that the defence was breached. In the difficult conditions Leary played well, the only blemish being a rather casual approach to the conversion of Albion’s try. Referee: Mr G. J. Bolton.