Rugby award to Davis

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33655, 3 October 1974, Page 28

Rugby award to Davis

L. J. Davis has suffered more than most from the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune in Rugby. His nickname, “Sealey,” proclaims the fact

But last evening the disap-' pointments of the past melted into insignificance when the courageous little half-back was named as the province’s “Rugby player of the year” at the Canterbury’ Supporters’ Club’s annual dinner in the Winter Garden. * The award met spontaneous: approval from Davis’s fellow players, for he is perhaps the most popular member of the representative squad. DISAPPOINTMENTS As one of the smallest members of the side — he is sft Bin — Davis has been

the target for much good-natured horse-play. But he has borne it all with a grin. The same fortitude enabled him to rise above the disappointment of missing All Black selection. On 12 occasions he has been a test reserve, without once making the final step to full All Black status. He is widely recognised as one of the best footballers not to have gained the distinction. LED JUNIORS

He has. however, captained the New Zealand Juniors against both the Lions and the Springboks, and also led the South Island. At present he is Canterbury’s vice-captain. In a first-class career which started in 1964, Davis has made 139 appearances for Canterbury — which makes him second equal, with D. Young, to W. F. McCormick among the province’s “centurions.” DESERVED WINNER Few half-backs in recent times have matched Davis for reliability in clearing the ball. For years he has been the mainspring of the team’s attack, and this season he has been up to his best standard. In fact, it is difficult to remember Davis playing poorly for the province. This makes his selection as the award winner all the more deserved. The Suburbs and Canterbury half-back is the fifth winner of the trophy. Previous winners were I. H. Penrose, R. W. Norton. A. J. Wyllie and McCormick.