SCRAPPY GAME

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31677, 13 May 1968, Page 17

SCRAPPY GAME

CHRISTCHURCH U; P. Eyles, R. Mahon, tries. D. A. Arnold a dropped goal. G. Waterreus two conversions. BELFAST 5: B. Culhane a try: B Odgers a conversion. play tor the most part was very scrappy and tended to become untidy, with neither side contributing much constructive Rugby. Arnold drew first blood for Christchurch when he was presented with a weak clearing kick, and potted a neat goal. Assisted in the second spell by the wind, Christchurch began to dominate proceedings with tries to Eyles and Mahon, both converted by Waterreus. Belfast threw out a gallant challenge tn the last 20 minutes of the match, but had left its move too late. The Christchurch forwards gained a lot ot line-out possession through W. Risman. E. Mui lariy and G. Fail, but much of it was wasted by the back-line, which tended to run across field. R. Wainohu and H. Cotterell both played very well. B. Watt and Arnold were tn the main only links in the Christchurch backline. The very fast winger. K. Simpson, lost many opportunities when he tended to stop running when challenged. Eyles a former Counties wing, had a good introduction to Canterbury Rugby and proved himself to be a very forceful runner. G. Waterreus was, as usual, a very reliable full-back.

The Belfast forwards, in the main, lacked cohesion, although one or two individuals stand out as premising players—Culhane, who was in everything, and K. Mallau. D. Burnev was by far the best of the backs. Referee: Mr C. J. Taylor.