Toki Stars In Last Game

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31785, 16 September 1968, Page 17

Toki Stars In Last Game

Three tries by J. M. Toki, playing his last game of Rugby league before transferring to Central Otago, assisted the Canterbury Maoris to beat Pakehas, 19-16, and become the first holders of the Pomare Challenge Cup.

The Maoris led 11-8 at halftime and extended the advantage to 16-8 before resisting a strong Pakeha challenge towards the end of the match. Although K. R. Blackler gave the Pakehas a 25-16 scrum advantage, the Maoris Shared possession by making fewer handling errors and capitalising on any loose ball. The two teams attempted to move the ball at all times, several passing movements extending for more than 50

yards before the coverdefence, or a lack of supporting players, halted the attack. The Maori centres, Toki and

B. Williams, penetrated the Pakeha defence on a number of occasions and Toki was no less effective when moved to the wing in the second

half. He beat two or three defenders to score his first try, dived over from dummy half for his next, and capitalised on a fine break by Williams for his third.

M. H. Mohi had a particularly successful first half, using his weight and strength to push off tacklers. He surged over the line to score the Maoris’ two other tries and received good support from A. Ratu, R. S. Cotter and P. Tainui.

G. R. Cooksley scored a fine try for Pakehas In the second half and D. Martin backed up well to score twice. R. K. Haffenden was sound at full-back. Blackler, G. J. Rosanowski and R. S. Walker were the most impressive forwards. Toki (three) and Mohl (two) scored tries for the Maoris, and L. H. Tehuia and C. R. Schwass kicked goals. Martin (two), J. Watts and Cooksley scored tries for the Pakehas and Rosanowski kicked two goals. The refetee (Mr K. Carter) awarded the Maoris seven of the 13 penalties.