University A, Christchurch look strong

Press, 19 August 1978, Page 56

University A, Christchurch look strong

By

JOHN BROOKS

i University A and Christ-, ■ church have the brightest i chances of emerging as ■ rugby championship con-] (tenders from the final games in the play-off series this afternoon.

The C.S.B. Trophy holder,, University, will have only i John Black missing from its regular line-up for the game against its first 'round conqueror, Linwood, at Lancaster Park. Christchurch, beaten last week, has the ability to bounce back against New Brighton. In spite of its trials and tribulations a few weeks ago, University A appears to have hit its best form at the right time. It played extremely well in disposing of the Christchurch challenge last week. Linwood will have to reduce its errors behind the scrum if it is to have a chance holding University. It has the forwards to offer a bold challenge, and the midfield has been strengthened with the return of Shane Gibbons. But if he is to be effective, he will need a much more reliable service than that offered last week. New Brighton is a tidy, efficient side, but its inability to command much line out possession was ruthlessly exposed by Linwood last week. A marked improvement in ball-winning would give it a chance, and the competition’s leading scorer, Dave Bowick, is certain to back up tries with goals. But the speed and guile present in the Christchurch back-line and the resilience of the pack argues that the red and blacks should advance to the final.

University has three I points, and Linwood and Christchurch two each, with New Brighton tailing the field with one. The two sides with the best records after today’s games will go forward to the grand final at Lancaster Park on August 27.