Recovery By Shirley

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31755, 12 August 1968, Page 16

Recovery By Shirley

SHIRLEY 17: C. Johnston. F. Jack. R. M. Gearry tries; I Behms two penalty goals and a conversion.

SYDENHAM 10: R. Higgs, K. Tucker tries; A. Dunlop two conversions.

Sydenham’s bid for the D.C.L. Shield was halted by a spirited Shirley team which converted a seven-point deficit at the interval into a convincing victory.

For most of the first half. Sydenham held the upper hand, largely because its forwards were quicker to and more effective in the rucks. A better service from the half-back, M. Pepper, might well have led to Sydenham building up an even more substantial lead. The Sydenham pack was again led splendidly by D. McKenzie, whose football this season has been of a consistently high standard. Resolute on defence and a strong runner in the loose, he was a constant thorn in Shirley’s side.

It was a different story in the second spell. Shirley’s forwards, an even and conscientious eight, achieved parity with Shirley, and the backs began to run with telling effect. Gearry gave fine service from line-outs and scrums and kicked effectively. At second fiveeighths F. Jack made a good impression with his deceptive running, and Behms, at fullback, played another sound game and contributed vital points with his goal-kicking. Referee: Mr G. J. Bolton.