Soccer clubs quizzed on 2nd division

Press, Volume CXV, Issue 33981, 23 October 1975, Page 30

Soccer clubs quizzed on 2nd division

Soccer clubs throughout the country have been given until November 9 to decide whether they would join a second division of the Rothmans National League. A list of questions has been set down for the clubs to consider and on which to report back to the New Zealand Football Association. One of the most interesting concerns “a possible geographical representation,” in which Auckland, already represented by four clubs in the first division, and Wellington are not included for a second division. The geographical representation suggested is: Northern—Whangarei, Manurewa, Hamilton. Rotorua; central—Palmerston North, New Plymouth, Napier, Porirua, Nelson; southern— Invercargill, Dunedin, Christchurch. The clubs have also been asked to say whether they would prefer a nation-wide second division or one split into northern and southern sections. Initial entry might be made by selection or qualification from the present regional leagues, and clubs are being asked to consider the form promotion and relegation should take. Suggestions are also being sought on whether the competition should start in 1976 or 1977.

Christchurch’s five representatives in the Broadlands Southern League last season —Rangers, Shamrock, Technical, Western, and Woolston W.M.C.—are among those who will obviously give the matter great thought in the next fortnight.

None has yet made a decision. Mr E. Adam, president of Rangers, which is involved in the present play-off series for the national league, now almost certainly won by Wellington-Diamond United, said that his club had grave doubts about a second division being a financial success. “We believe the first division should be increased to 12 teams (turned down by the Rothmans League Committee recently) and not the starting of a second division.” Mr Adam said. “However, we shall have to give the matter deep thought. It is obvious that if a second division is started, it will be the only route in the future into the first division. “And those who want to get into the first division might be forced to enter a competition in which they can see only great financial losses ahead of them. “It might be different for those clubs in areas where there is no national league representative but for the Christchurch clubs it could prove a costly venture. “Probably, their would be more merit in southern and northern divisions to keep these costs down to a minimum.” Rugby.—The touring Waltemata club from New Zealand beat Hertford, 28.16, in a Rugby match at Hertford, England. Rugby.—The Honolulu team, Meraloma, beat the New Zealand side, Frankton, 24-13, in the second Pan Pacific Rugby tournament in Honolulu. Frankton was also beaten, 6-0 by the Sydney side, Gordon.

Tennis.—Chris Evert beat Rosemary Casals, 6-0. 6-1, in the women’s singles semi-finals of the $U5135,000 world Invitation tennis classic at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.