Running rugby likely

Press, 19 May 1984, Page 72

Running rugby likely

As an expression of the best aspects of rugby, the under-17 “test” between New Zealand and Australia at Lancaster Park oval this afternoon should take some beating. The youthful Wallabies, who bave won all four matches on their New Zealand tour to date, are hoping for a continuation of the balmy autumn spell so that they can run the ball with a will against the opposition. But there will be no 10man approach by the New Zealand side, for the plan of attack is to involve the whole side. This is not surprising, considering that the coach is Ralph Caulton, one of the most skilful and

imaginative of All Black wings of the early 19605.

New Zealand has won the last two matches against Australian under-17 teams, and has an over-all advantage of two to one since the exchange was started. Mr Caulton is pleased with the progress achieved by the current crop of boys at training in the last few days, and believes that the game will be a boost to blossoming careers. The Australians have been impressed with the calibre of young players encountered on the tour, especially with the forwards of Otago and Southland. But they are fit and confident for the searching test of

their ability this afternoon. The teams are:— Australia. — Stephen Harding; Gary Larson, Dean Ugliati, Andrew Murphy; Stephen Antonelli, Anthony Grigson; Ricky Stuart; Lance Wellington; David Wilson, David Handcock, Matthew Kelly, Evan Jones; Andrew Blades, Peter Power, Anthony Gadsby. New Zealand.— Scott Barclay; Simon Clavis, Richard Tuhou, Stephen Harding; Andrew McCormick, Warren Johnston; James Saker; David Ewe; Tony Macdonald, Neil Alton, Stephen Gordon, John Tisdall; Richard Currie, Derek Nind, Nick Mantell. The referee will be Mr Tom Doocev (Canterbury).