Watford soccer side for N.Z.

Press, 17 March 1982, Page 6

Watford soccer side for N.Z.

PA Auckland The leading English second division soccer side, Watford, would play three matches in New Zealand in May as part of the New Zealand build-up for the World Cup, said the New Zealand World Cup director, Mr Charlie Dempsey, yesterday. Mr Dempsey, and the manager of the New Zealand team, Mr John Adshead, had talks with the chairman of the Watford club, Elton John, when he was in Auckland for a concert last week. Mr John subsequently spoke to the club and has obviously had a part in arranging the visit, which Mr Adshead described as “the one we wanted."

Mr Dempsey, who had confirmation of the visit by telex yesterday, said that the matches would be played on May 22, 26, and 29. The venues would be decided at a meeting of the World Cup committee later this week. Mr Dempsey has also had confirmation of the fourmatch visit by the League of Ireland side. It will plav on May 8, 12, 16, and 19. Again, the venues will be decided later this week although Mr Dempsey said it was likely that Gisborne and Invercargill, which have already expressed interest in hosting an international match this season, might be included.