N.Z. needs good wins over Canada in hockey test

Press, Volume CXV, Issue 33941, 6 September 1975, Page 48

N.Z. needs good wins over Canada in hockey test

(By

KEVIN TUTTY

The New Zealand forward line will hold the key to the team’s success in the first hockey test against Canada at Porritt Pari; today.

The line is probably the most accomplished New Zealand has had for several years and it should balance any deficiencies in the defence.

The five forwards — Arthur Parkin, John Christensen, Barry Maister, Ramesh Patel, and Jeff Archibald — were all at the last Olympics in Munich, Patel and Parking as fledgling internationals. All five are now well versed in the rigours of test hockey and will form a line that would be equal to most in the world. If New Zealand has any weakness it will be in its leftside defence. Stewart Mills, the only new cap in the team, will be at left-back, and Alan Chesney, who was out of

i form during most of the I Rothmans national tournament in Hamilton last week, will be at left half. The strength of the Canadian attack is unknown, but it is sure to rely a great deal on speed, and if it rightflank attack has control to any reasonable degree it

Icould prove trying for the [New Zealand left-side de- ! fence. Arthur Borren. who has nlayed very well for Canterbury at inside-left this season, has been placed at right-half where he can play almost as well. However, it would not be unexpected if he found it difficult to make the transition from forward to half which requires a lot less dribbling than he is accustomed too. The New Zealand centrehalf, Selwyn Maister, has been at his best this season, and the forwards are sure to get an excellent supply of bril from him that will make life for the Canadians very trying. New Zealand will be looking for two satisfying results todav — and tomorrow when it meets Canada in the second test at Timaru. If it does not achieve them it will not be able to look forward with much confidence to the five tests against India next month. Ground firm Porritt Park, the venue for the test today, was in excellent condition yesterday. The ground was firm, and the oval colourful with its surround of advertising hoardings. The official opening of the park by the GovernorGeneral (Sir Dennis Blundell) will precede the test.