Overwhelming Possession Gives Marist Win

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 31985, 12 May 1969, Page 20

Overwhelming Possession Gives Marist Win

MARIST 14: O. Stopforth, P. Robertson tries, P. Fraher two penalties ibid a convers-

BELFAST 6: B. Mawson a try, G. Shapland a dropped goal.

Marist had an overwhelming share of possession but put little of it to effective use in its 14-6 win over Belfast al Lancaster Park South.

The Marist forwards, capably led by J. F. Burns, rucked well consistently, and gave the backs many chances, but the progress along the backline was infrequent, and most of the possession was kicked away. The only time the ball was moved quickly the full-back, P. Robertson, scored a fine try from the overlap.

Belfast had few chances, but made the most of each one, jind with a little more luck would have scored twice. Marist had a territorial advantage throughout the match, but had to withstand several quick breaks by Belfast.

The best- player on the field was O. Stopforth, the Marist flanker. Ha was fast to the

loose ball, played intelligently, and generally succeeded in what he tried to clo. He scored one fine try and was a constant help to his side, covering and attacking with skill and speed.

The Belfast backs were sent away on many penetrative runs by swift service from the halfback, B. Mawson. On the- left wing. A. Clark played confidently and made two fine breaks which almost brought him tries. J. Tapalulu, a rugged centre, made several crashing runs, but Belfast had just too few opportunities.

In the Belfast forwards, L. Berghan. a flanker, was quick to a breakdown and frequently stopped Marist rushes with fast backing up.

The forwards constantly kept Marist on attack, but too often individual efforts by forwards went unattended and promising rushes were halted. B. Kelly was a fast, heavy loose forward, and until he left the field K. O’Gorman led several foot rushes. His replacement, K. Cowan, played equally well, and covered his backs impressively.

Refereei Mr B. W. Flfltld.