Indoor hockey to University

Press, 14 March 1977, Page 6

Indoor hockey to University

Canterbury University had a ‘deserving win in the first Lion [ national indoor hockey tourua[ment in Christchurch at the ! week-end. In a fast, skilful exhibition, Canterbury beat a strong Auckland XI by three goals, a nan row margin in indoor hockey The week-end produced a grand total of 273 goals in 20 matches an indication of the action to be found in indoor hockey. Canterbury University, Otago. Auckland, and Guthries Invita tion XI were the teams to emerge from pool play and contest the semi-finals. Wellington was unlucky not to qualify, missing on a goal-average recount. Auckland comfortably beat Otago, the 10-goal margin fairly reflecting the difference between the teams. Auckland’s skill exceeded that of its opponent but it expended much energy in an unnecessary pursuit of goals, energy which it could have done with later. Canterbury had a much harder struggle to reach the final. Die invitation side showed a sound appreciation of tiie needs of indoor liockey It was particularly well served by Tony Incson and Baivant Bhana, whose stickwork in close play was, at times.', brilliant. There were eight Olympic gold I medallists in the final and the I match never lacked excitemen,. Auckland scored an early goal and maintained the pressure fori a long time. It was not until 1

late in the half that ( anterbu. ! took a slight edge and a Iwi goal advantage. Auckland began the sacond half strongly and soon levelled the scores. But Canterbury’s superior stamina. skill end greater experience gave the lean, the final say. Selwyn Maister was the kina Pin of the University defence He was ably supported by Niall Coster. Auckland found the close stick work, accurate passing and close support of Barrv Maistei, John Christensen, and Thur Boren difficult to match. But Auckland's own effort was considerable and it often pene tr ?* ed the University defence with swift thrusts on either flank. Had Keith Gorringc had more experience as a striker, his team might well have «on*le missed three open goals Greg Daymen sl owed consider able attacking power as well as a solid defence and there waad7’>r« the elusive dribbling of Arthur Parkin. Keitl Cassin and Brian Mellor. How ever, it was Hamish Patel who was the star for Auckland. Hl' e P«»s>ng. pentratlve dribbling and swift movement ;sorely embarrassed the Univbi Jsitv defence. i Results:— Final.—-Canterbui’ tnr. trait ' Auckland 5 Plaj-oftfe frr I™ 1110 !’ placing.-,: invitation ? 7; "elliMton phfun 14. Mana> atu 10: Old Bo' seventh) 7, Ashburton 0.