THIRD RUGBY TEST—A DRAW—AFTER STERN STRUGGLE

Dominion, Volume 14, Issue 305, 19 September 1921, Page 6

THIRD RUGBY TEST—A DRAW—AFTER STERN STRUGGLE

THE TEAMS. SOUTH AFRICA. Full-back: G. P. Morkel. Three-q uarters: Zeller, Strauss, Meyer, Van Heerden. Haires: Michau and De Kock. Forwards: "Boy” Morkel, Walker. Bllis, Van Rooycn. Mostert, du PlesKoyle Merkel, and Hellish. NEW ZEALAND. Full-back: I Kingston. Three-quarters: Steel, M. Nicholls, Siddells. Five-eiglillis: Ifwerson and Fea. Half-back: Foberts. Forwards: Bellis (wing), West, Fletcher. AlT.ean, Moffitt, Richardson, Fogarty and Duncan.

A GREAT FORWARD BATTLE

AFRICANS SET A LIVELY PACE '

ALL BLACKS FINISH STRONGLY

MATCH PLAYED IN MUD AND KAIN

The conditions that prevailed for the third Test match between South Africa and Naw Zealand were not conducive to spectacular football. Owing to the heavy rain the ground was in parts covered with water, and the greasy nature of the ball made handling difficult, with the result that play developed into a great forward contest. The South Africans showed superiority in the first half, and after the first few minutes of the game took control, and it was only the fine defensive work of the New Zealanders that kept them out. In the latter stages of the second spell the New Zealand team assumed the upper hand, and it took the South Africans all thoir time to prevent them from crossing the line. On the day a draw was a very fair indication of the merits of the teams. The Springboks previous to this match were second only to New Zealand in the Rugby football world, judging by their record in England. Each side having won one Test and drawn the third, South Africa now shares pride of position with New Zealand in leading the world in this particular branch of sport.

The game proved that the South Al ricans are not only fine-weather foot-, fcallers as was popularly supposed. I n the first Test the rain which fell prior to the match was held to have assisted the All Blacks, and it was thought that in the mud they would prove far super* or to the visitors, who in their own coun- ■ try aro used to hard, dry grounds. Thin assumption, however, did not work out in fact, and after the first few minutes of the play it was evident that the ' Springboks would be particularly hard to beat. They judged early that the only way to win was to keep the ball down among the forwards, and, assisted by judi- ■. cious line-kicking by G. Morkel and Moyer, they rapidly accommodated themselves to the prevailing conditions. So great was the interest in the rateib that people from all parts of New Zealand began to arrive in Wellington early on Thursday, and by Saturday morning there were thousands of visitor s. At ten o’clock the spectators began to take up their positions at Athletic Park, and soon some hundreds, of people had assembled. An hour later, though i he weather was very bad, and all cur-,tain-raisers wore declared off, a continuous stream of people set in for tlie playing ground. Armed with waterproof sheets, umbrellas, and a varied assortment ■of equipment to keep themselves dry, th ey took up various pointe of vantage 'around the ground. 'Shortly after noon a band arrived and entertained the crowd, and later the'pipe band braved the elements and marched around the playing area to the delight of the crowd. The match did not start till three o'clock, and despite the wretched conditions something like 30,000 people who h ad come to view the game manifested no ■ impatience. They were a good-tempered crowd, and remained so throughout the imatch, notwithstanding the fact that Tain fell steadily all the time, and at fre- ' quant intervals developed into a torrential downpour, included amen; the visitors i'.wore His Excellency the Governor-General and party and members of Cabinet. .Among the spectators who viewed the game from an exposed position were a .number of patients from tho Trentham Military Hospital, and it was a matter of remark that no provision was made for them in the stand. Consequently, in their enthusiasm they had to view the match under the same disabilities’ as ,tho majority of tho spectators had to do. It is to bp hoped that future invitations extended to sick and wounded soldiers will include protection from such ■.weather as prevailed on Saturday. THE FATEFUL MOMENT. Never in the history of New Zealand Rugby has such a fateful game been j fought out under such adverse conditions. Rain fell on Friday, and con'itinued steadily all day on Saturday, with the result that the ground was in a ■’wretched state, miniature lakes forming long before the game was over. At times the rain camo down in torrents during the progress of tho match, and .matters became decidedly unpleasant for the players as well as the thousands of spectators who had not been fortunate enough to secure accommodation in ithe stand. The first few minutee of the game were in favour of the All Blacks, and , When Bellis, with van Heerden, shot over the South African line for what pro- ; mined to bo a try, tho hopes of the spectators ran high. However, tho referee Ordered a serum five yards out, and after a-force the tables were quickly turn ed, and it was fully ten minittes before the New Zealanders again got back on ■the South Africans’ side of the half-way line. Before long they were forced back to their own quarters, where they were given little respite. There ■was only one bright interlude on the part of the All Blacks, when M'Lean followed up a kick by Fea, end tho South Africans just touched down in time. In all, Now Zealand had to force on seven occasions, and in one instance they ■ Y'ero lucky to saye a try by "Boy” Morkel, who reached the line, and, un- . fortunately for tho South Africans, wag unable to ground the ball. i On the run of the play the South Africans apparently gained some advantage in winning the toss, for, on changing ends for the second spell, after withstanding an attack by South Africa, tho All Blacks in turn began to assume the upper hand, and they went very near scoring on occasions. Nicholls lost a remarkably good chance after receiving from Fea. He ran into the ruck instead of passing out to Stool, who had a comparatively clear field ahead eg him. The tiefence of the South Africans, however, was excellent, and the

accurate line-kicking by their backs always seemed to get them out of difficulty. Too hard kicking by the Now Zealanders and over-eagerness, which led to offside play, frequently nullified the efforts of the All Blacks when they were in a handy position. Taking all the circumstances into account, a draw was a. fair indication of the r-.speclivo merits of tho teams, though, if anything, judging the game as a whole, the South Africans were on tho attack for the greater portion of the time. A FORWAR D BATTLE. Seeing that the contest was largely confined to the forwards, it was almost impossible to judge as to the effectiveness of the South Africans’ style of play as compared to that of New Zealand. Both sets of forwards played a very hard game, and never once during the match did their efforts cease. Both sides must have been particularly well trained to have stood up to such a gruelling game under such wretched conditions. Considering the great disadvantages under which they played—a greasy ball and a. swampy ground—both sets of backs did all that could be expected of them. There were occasional small passing rushes, but owing to the wet and heavy ball they did not get very far. However, if the day had been at all a fir/? one, it was quite evident that both rearguards would have treated the spectators to some excellent combined work. In the scrums the South Africans fought with all their weight, and at times pushed clean through the New Zealanders. This was to be expected, seeing that man for man they were heavier than the All Blacks, and had the sepnees of an extra man, as Bellis was out on the wing. In tho circumstances the New Zealanders did well to hold them as they did. As an instance of tho hard pounding nature of the battle among the forwards, the referee could not get out of the. read in time on one occasion, and went right down in the ruck, with the result that he received a slight concussion. This was in. the second spell, but Mr. Neilson pluckily saw the game lo a conclusion, although still feeling tho effects of his injury. The result was that he collapsed after the match, and had to receive medical attention. His refereeing was very good, and gave satisfaction to both sides and the public generally. ■ > THE RUN OF THE GAME. South Africa won the toss and New Zealand defended (ho northern end, Fletcher kicking off. Mellish got. tho ball but was smothered by the New Zealand forwards, and Strauss, coming to the rescue, sent out near tho twentyfive flag. From the line-out Michau speculated, and after loose play a scrum was ordered. The hall eventually went out to Van Heerden, who kicked out at the twenty-five flay. From the throw-in the New Zealand forwards broke through and carried play right up to the lino with a sweeping rush. The hopes o fthe spectators were raised as Bellis made a dash across and he and Van Heerden went down together on tho balk A scrum was ordered five yards out and from the loose play that fallowed If worsen secured and passed to Foberts, who punted across, enabling Ellis to force. The game had only been in progress about three minutes, and tho initial efforts of tho All Black team gave considerable promise of ultimate success. The New Zealand men continued to flatter their supporters, and a passing rush again carried play into tho visitors’, territory. Ifwerson. was prominent in the movement, but a knockon stopped tho T New Zealanders. The scrum was in favour of the All Blacks,

and Bellis, coming round, took the ball at toe up to the Springboks’ line, where, after <i great struggle between tire opposing vans, G. Morkel cleared. Roberts, picking up in the loose, again gave New Zealand an advantage with a beautiful line-kick, and from (he throw-in. M'Lean knocked it back to him. Ho started a passing rush, but Siddells failed to hold tho greasy ball, and Van Heerden cutting in shot it out at' his own twenty-five flag. From the line-out one of tho South African forwards infringed, and Fletcher had a thirty yards’ kick at goal, which fell short, the heavy leather being quite against accurate handling or successful goal-kicking. Strauss accepted, and returned the ball to Ifwerson wlio just failed to find the line. G. Morkel, the South African full-back, gathered up and found touch near tho All Blacks’ twenty-five. This was the first time that the visitors had cressed the halfway lino, and from now on New Zealand wore almost continuously on the defensive for the remainder of the sp'lL Mellish got- the. Hall .from the throw-in mid centred. The South Africans immediately followed up, .and Kingston was just in time with a fine line-kick which reached the New Zealanders’ twenty-five yards flag. The line-out saw Mellish again in possession, and throwing back to Michau, the New Zealanders were in trouble, but splendid tackling by West and Nicholls stopped the onslaught. The melee resulted in a scrum, but Bellis camo round too quickly and New Zealand were penalised for off-side play. Morkel kicked down the field, and Nicholls gaining possession, shot tho ball into touch near the twenty-five. The throw-in saw Walker pass to Meyer, but Siddells and Richardson slopped the attack, Roberts finding the lino with a nippy kick. THE SCRU M WORK. South Africa were having (ho bettor of the scrums, and the ball was seht out to Van Heerden, who improved the Springboks’ position with a short, lino-kick. The fleet South African wing was playing well, and was prominent in aggressive movements, proving that, the was more than a fine-weather player, as was popularly supposed. The game'was now a tight forward one, and tho New Zealanders were using every effort to keep the visitors at bay. From a scrum at tho twenty-fiyo, Mostort camo through and the ball reached Kingston, who made no mistake in stopping tho attack. Michau then tried to work the blind side of the scrum, but was hold up. Van Heerden, however, camo on the scene and a speculator saw the ball go out a yard from the Now Zealand corner flag. Matters were looking anything but bright for the New Zealanders nt this stage, and a passing rush between Michau. Meyer and Strauss ended in play under tho goal posts. From the loose the ball was kicked back to G. Morkel, who marked at tho twenty-five. His shot at goal was charged down, and the All Black forwards took the bull to mid-field. Do Kock picked up, and a good kick saw Now Zealand again back in their own territory. The New Zealand forwards were playing a tight, close game, in which Fogarty was very prominent. A I if He later Zoller was bustled off the ball and Steel securing, sont out on tho Africa ’’ mdo of tho half-way flag—the first time in ten minutes that the New Zealanders had got past this mark. From tho loose play that ensued the Springboks were penalised, and a high-and-nnder kick resulted in ST. Nicholls failing to fake the ball, and G. Morkel sent back to Kingston, who was forced to kick out well in his own twenty-five. Tho throw-in was followed by a scrum, and Michau further improved tho position with a short line-kick. Michau again got tho ball, and was held up just in time, tho ball going over the lino for Roberts to force. The game bad

been in progress a quarter of an houf, and the South Africans now seemed ta m A n’ l w°" l tr - 0 i Of -P le P - 1 ? 1 ' 0 ,’, 11 the k>ek-out G. Morkel found the line in the All Blacks territory. 1 he ball w ent bsck to Merer. who kicked, and, Kingston failing to gather up, had the visitors’ forwards on him. From a scrum that followed, rho ball went out t o Michau, but Bellis charged through, and lea, picking up, sent out to the half. W ay lino. A free kick to New Zealand s aw the ball return to Steel, Who found the line at tho visitors’ twenty-five with a t airty yards’ kick. Michau was ,' n possession a little, later, and sent to Zeller, who kicked across th? field to Siddells, but the. latter made a. weak punt when challenged by Van Heerden, and play still remained at tho visitors’ twenty-five. !■ rain the line-out Now Zealand wer» penalised, and G. Morkel found touch ten yards past th- half-way flag. Siddells again got possession, and -attempted to kick, but the .ball wa s charged down, and du Plessis and. Van Heerden earned play to New Zealand ? twenty-five, where Kingston saved with a mark. The visitors continued to press, ond were soon back again, a scrum being ordered five yards from tho All B) nc k line. Strauss got the’ball, but ran right into the ruck, and Steel brought off a fi 1)0 save j n [} le teeth of stern, opposition. THE RAIN INCREASES. Tt had been raining continuously throughout the match, and at this stage it increased in intensity, while the playingarea, contained miniature lakes, which made accurate 'handling of the ball almost impossible. Strauss and Van Heerden were responsible for another attack by the South Africans, Nicholls being forced to kick out well in his own quarters. Almost immediately the New Zealanders were penalised for obstruction, but G. Morkel’s kick was charged down by Richardson,and Roberts sent out in midfield. Ellis headed another rush, but faulty play by Siddells, who was standing too close up to his forwards, saw the All Blacks again on the defensive. From the throw-in, Ifwerson speculated across the goal in a clearing effort, and G. Morkel, gathering up, shot the ball out at the corner-flag, a mark to Roberts eventually saving the situation. G. Morkel took the ball, and had a pot at goal, which went wide of the mark, and Roberts forced. The Springboks were having much the hotter of the game, and were attacking solidly, Fea saving a few minutes later with a strong k’ck. Du Plessis and Van Rooyen were frequently breaking through, and the New Zealanders were again forced hack, but good work by Richardson returned play to midfield, where Roberts was penalised for trying to play the ball on the ground. G. Morkel kicked over the line, and New Zealand again forced. From a kick by Siddells. Strauss gained possession, but Bellis had him before - ha could get rid of the ball. Fletcher picked up, and sent on to Ifwerson, who missed, and the South .Africans were enabled to repulse tho attack. Steel collared de Kock in South Africa’s twenty-five a little later, but a penalty relieved. Steel gathered up shortly afterwards, and sent to Fea, who kicked. M'Lean followed up fast, and rallying his forwards carried the ball over the line. South Africa, just forcing in time —it was touch and go. With seven' minutes to go- the South Africans set. up a determined attack, and play wa» right on t'he New Zealand line. From a throw-in Boy Morkel got tho ball, and was tackled while endeavouring to force his way over the line. It was an exciting moment The big South African fell on his back, and was unable to ground the ball, and in a flash Roberts snatched it out of his ‘hands and forced. G. Morkel. who had been doing some beautiful line-kicking, later secured, .and sent out ' at Now Zealand’s corner flag, but a lucky speculator by one of the New Zealand backs extricated his side from another very dangerous position. Fletcher camo through and carried tho ball to midfield. where New Zealand were awarded a free-kick. Meyer accepted and returned to Steel, who failed to find the lino, and G. Morkel, making no mistake with a forty yards kick, had New Zealand well back in their own territory. Eventu-. ally from the loose piny that ensued the ball was kicked across the line, and Kingston forced. G. Morkel got in another fine line-kick almost immediately, and good work by du Plessis and de Kock saw tho latter stopped five yards from New Zealand’s goal. From a scrum, F'etcher camo through, and the ball was. sent out at the twenty-five yards flag. Beady play by du. Plessis saw New Zealand again on the defensive, and G. Morkel further improved the position with a i fine line-kick, and the game again settled at New Zealand’s corner flag. The ball was sent to Michau from the line-out, and on to Meyer, who kicked over Hid line. Now Zealand forcing'. Tho visitors, as the result of another superb kick by G. Morkel, returned, and after strenuous play on the line Ifwerson gathered, up and saved brilliantly iust. ns half-time sounded, with no scare to either side, though tho game so far,bad .boon decidedly in favour of the visitors. THE SECOND SPELL. Rain fell very heavily during the interval, the new uniforms provided for tho teams being in the same state as those they had discarded a few minutes after the game resumed. From the kick-off Fea sent out at the centre, and from the throw-in tight forward work followed, the South African van throwing their whole weight into the game with the idea of breaking through. They succeeded to a large extent, and forced the opposing forwards back into their own twenty-five. The ball was sent to Kingston, who was badly bustled by the South African forwards, but Siddells saved with a mark. South Africa continued, to press, and play was right on the New Zealand line. Meyer gained possessiou, but lost the ball. De Kock, however, recovered it. and passed to Zeller, who was pushed out a few yards from the corner. Again using their weight from the tlirow-in, the South Africans carried the ball over the line, and Kingston saved by forcing. From tho kick-out Morkel, with a typical line-kick, again enabled the visitors to invade their opponents’ Du Plessis came through, but was held up on the line. Meyer gained possession and passed to Zeller, who made a great dash, but was well tackled by Roberts, thus preventing what appeared to be an almost certain score. The ball did not go into touch, and. after a strenuous struggle within a couple of feet of the line it wont out at tho corner. South Africa were attacking in great style, and play was near New Zealand’s line for almost five minutes. Eventually Steel gained possession and found the line at the twenty-five flag, bringing welcome relief. The South Africans were making tho gtame much more open than in the first spell, and they were soon back again. Roberts, however, picked up and passed to Fea, who kicked, only to see G. Morkel again find touch in New Zealand's twenty-five. Siddells, who was now showing to belter advantage than in the first half, .gained possession and kicked to G. Morkel. The latter was rather slow in gathering up the ball, and was collared befo”e be could get in his kick, but Boy Morkel camo to tho rescue and sent out at the half-way mark. From the loose the ball was sent back to Steel, who punted well down the field and followed up. G. Morkel side-stepped him, and with a good kick kept play in neutral territory. Du

Plessis and van Rooyen carried the line, headed by Van Hooven, Boyle Morkel, forward work bv the South Africans-out, but Steel repulsed them. Good Mellish and Ellis, carried the ball up to Naw Zealand's line, and Fea was com|>elled to force. From. tho kick-out Meyer returned tho ball to the twenty-five flag, and a little later a kick by G. Morkel was charged clown. McLean, I*lotchbr and Richardson got on to it, and swept it to South Africa’s quarter. From the line-out Roylo Morkel had the South Africans penalised for off-side play, and Nicholls had a shot at 'goal, but th«s ball failed to rise. ALL BLACKS’ PLAY IMPROVES. ' The New Zealanders were now beginning to show to better advantage, and McLean, coming through the ruck, took tho ball well into South Africa S territory, where Strauss saved with a good kick. New Zealand continued to attack, and their forwards were having tho better of the play, but owing to tho greasy ■ nature of the ball they were unable to get it out to their backs. Matters were looking promising, but Bellis was penalised for obstruction. G. Morkel took the kick but on this occasion ho was not successful in finding touch, and Kingston allowed the All Blacks to again take tho offensive by finding the line well in the visitors’ territory. Moffitt further improved the All Blacks' position, and Steel kicked out near the corner. Enthusiasm among the spectators now rose to a high pitch, for tho New Zealand team appeared to be rapidly gaining the upper hand Fea obtained the ball and attempted to pass to Steel, but du Plessis intercepted and got his team out of a very tight position with a good hick to midfield. I Strenuous play between the opposing vanguards followed in midfield, in which I the referee got in tho thick of it, and was temporarily incapacitated, receiving slight concussion and a liberal coating of mud. A scrum followed, and Van Booyen, coming through, was only held up by the five-eighths lino. The New Zealand forwards immediately counter-attacked, and the ball going back to Strauss resulted in the latter kicking out at the New Zealand twenty-five flag; A long kick by Kingston saw G. Morkel in trouble, but Van Heerden camo to his rescue and play was egain in the visitors'* twenty-five. The New Zealanders were now having the better of the game, and Zeller, being caught in posesssion by Ifwerson, led to the All Blacks reaching the Springboks line, hut faulty handling allowed do Kock to clear. New Zealand returned and during a rally Mellieh received injuries to his nose. The second spell had been in progress half-an-hour at this stage, and the rain was coming down in torrents. Tho All Blacks were more than holding their own, and on resuming Michau and G Morkel both attempted to take a high ball, but they clashed and the oval bounced into touch' near the corner. From the line-out Roberta failed to gather up, and Van Heerden, coming through quickly, cleared. Melhsh further improved the position, and Kingston was forced to kick out at the half-way flag. Roberts obtained possession after the line-out, and, assisted by his forwards, forced the visitors back to their own goal-line. Loose play followed, and M. Nicholls, gathering up, centred to his van, who dribbled across, and G. Morkel touched down just in front of Siddells. THE SPRINGBOKS FORCED. , Richardson and Duncan were prominent in another rush by the Now Zealand forwards, but Michau gathered up and kicked to Steel, who got in a longranue punt. The ball rolled over the line and G. Morkel again forced. M. Nicholls then set his backs in motion, and, assisted by Roberts Ifwerson and Fea play was again at the South Affricans’ corner flag. From the line-out the KHI was thrown back to Roberts, who kicked, and Zeller, picking up got m a fine line-kick at the same instant as he was tackled, talcing the South Africans back to midfield. Van Rooyen came through the pack a little later, but Kingston was safe, and sent the ball out at the half-way flag. The New Zealand forwards gradually worked their way back and were only held up by good defensive work by Moyer. Fea failed to take a pass from Roberts, and again South. Africa wore allowed to clear their lin ®' T^ r New ll .^ a ?A fo^“J'A 8 were now attacking desperately, hut good work by Ellie nullified thmr efforts. South Africa were awarded a free kick but it did not avail them much fo MT>ean burst through from the line-out and earned the hall back to the visitors territory. The Springboks wore penalised, and Kingston put in an up-and-under kick, which M'Lean reached as soon as the opposing forwards, and kicking, sent the ball over the line for Morkel to force. From the kick returned tho ball to the South Africans’ twenty-five, and Van Heerden failed to accent it Ths New Zealand forwards were on him, and Roberts, gathering started a passing rush with Fea and Nicholls. The last-named tried to cut in 'instead of passing to Steel on the wing, and a great opportunity of scoring was W It was one of the chances, cf the day. Play settled right on the visitors’ line, and Fletcher was just held up in time by Mellish. South Africa eventually cleared, and Van Rooyen broke through to Nicholls. The latter, however, got out of his way, and kicked ever the line for G. Morkel to force. From tho kick out Roberts returned the ball to Van Rooyen, who sent to M Lea , and the latter found touch well in the twenty-five. From the threwun Mils who had. done consistently good work, made a dash through to „et the ball o the fly, and it just went under his arm. Meyer returned the oval to midfielfl •as the bell rang for the conclusion of a drawn match that will form subject of ffiXon for fears to come regarding the respective merits of the teams that participated. , ~ , ’ Mr. A. E. Neilson, of Wellington, controlled tho game. INDIVIDUAL FORM OF THE PLAYERS. ' Coming to the question of individual form, the South Africans have a lot to thank G. P. Morkel for. As full-back, he played a magnificent game, and only on one occasion was he unable to get in his kick. He took the ball excellently and his iudicious use of the side-lino was responsible for penning the New Zealandem up on maS occasions, while in the concluding stages of the game he frequently extricated his side from awkward positions. r /pllpr the It was not a day for back play, but in one or two instances Zeller the speedy win" three-quarter, demonstrated his worth. The conditions did not make fw corkscrew runs so Zeller was alt a disadvantage, but the time he 'burst through and was gamely tackled by Roberts within a yard of tho line showed) that, given u little latitude, he is a great scoring back . Van Heerden, on the other wing, showed up fairly weil ia ttve farst spell, when the South Africans were in tho ascendancy, but in the latter stages of the ■ game, his team was up against it, ho showed that his.strong defence. Ho is very speedy, and even on a wet day, when things are going 110l Meyer"played well, particularly on the defence, and his line-kicking was only second to that of Morkel. Michau and de Kock, the halves, were good. . • " The forwards are a fine, hard-working lot, of which Van Rooyen was the pick, nldv Rpvnnded bv du Plessis Next in order were Mellish and If 118 - the New Zealanders’ play, Steel was unquestionably the outstanding back and put in a tremendous amount of work during; thegame. Ho i a. eauallv good on attack and' defence, and got m some very useful line kicks Roberts, at half, played a very sound game, and frequently made good opemnga which were not taken full advantage of. When up against their line he saved ei Zealanders time and again, and in the loose his good, heady play should h mOt K7ngston,° l at * full-back, was particularly sound, and did some very good linekioking. Ho got tho Now Zealanders out o f some difficult positions, and handled the ball extremely well considering the conditions. . , , , . Fea and Ifwerson, the new five-eighths line in the New Zealand team, justihe their inclusion, and were prominent throughout. M. Nicholls was not at all happy at any stage of the game. Siddolls, tho left wing three-quarter, was weak in the first spell, but in me ascend half he played a very fair game. . Tho New Zealand forwards, considering the odds they were up against, played a great game. Bellis, on the wing, was all over the field and was throughout. Ho was easily the best forward on the side of New Zeala . Fletcher and M’Lean were also well to the fore, and proved themselves to be tvnical New Zealand forwards. Both were in the thick of it from start finish and never for one moment relaxed their efforts. Richardson was also conRnionoufl But tho forwards all worked. well, r P Vword of praise is due to Mr. T. K. Leslie, trainer of the team for the manner Tn wKich he turned out the All Blacks. Every man was perfectly fit and outlasted the pace to tho very end, despite the heavy ground. .

AFTER THE MATCH

THE TEAMS ENTERTAINED SOUTH AFRICAN MANAGER’S VIEWS The New Zealand Rugby Union entertained the teams at dinner at the Grand Hotel in the evening. Tho president (Mr. J. M'Leod) occupied the chair, and there was a largo and representative attendance. The chairman, in proposing the toast, "The South African Team and the Routh African Board of Control,” said he could not express the great pleasure ■it had given New Zealanders to associate 'with this wonderful team p rom South Africa. One had been led to expect that the New Zealand team would be extended, and so it proved. The team had now played ibt*7r last match, and 'on the Tests the honours were even, a result, he thought, that, would give everyone satisfaction. During the tour many things had happened to which exception had been taken, but he hoped that those unions throughout New Zealand who had found some cause for com-

plaint would attribute 'it io a mishap or inexperience, and forget all about I it. The tour had taught New Zealand quite a lot regarding the government of the game, which was becoming too heavy for an honorary management to control. It brought home the necessity of revising that government, and the errors made through inexperience would he taken full advantage of, together with other points, and next year the lessons gained would be put into operation. Ito regarded the South Africans as a team of revivalists, and was quite sure he was correct when ho prognosticated that ' if anything ever revive,d Rugby football in this country it was the visit of the Springboks. Ho did not know exactly how the New Zealand pnblio had taken the result of the third Test match, but the manner in which the whole nation was moved in connection with it showed what a hold the game had in. this country. It showed that the game reprwmnied the spirit of this country—the game associated with pure amateurism. Money could not have stirred the people to the same extent. They played this game in Now Zealand for itself, but they had difficulties to contend with. There were other games in the field, but those associated with Rngbv stood for one thing—amateurism. While they did not say some men should not ho recompensed for lose of time they did say they should not be paid for a team game. ‘ Rugby was a team game with 15 men relying upon each other. It was different from games like tennis, where the work of one individual was involved. Tn a team such ns fhev claimed Rugby was tho players should be pure amateurs. A TEAM OF GENTLEMEN. Regarding the visitors, the people of New Zealand not only appreciated th«lf

games on the field, but welcomed. them os representatives of another portion of the Empire. In every respect they had lived up to the traditions of their country, and in no respect had they failed to earn the highest appreciation of New Zealanders, for their conduct both on and off the field had neen what was expected of a team of gentlemen. When they returned to South Africa they could say that New Zealand was some country and the people as a whole worth while. Games between countries such ns the South Africans and New Zealanders had played during the last ten weeks would do more to bring them into closer touch than oven politicians could do.

The Hon. G. J. Coates. Minister of Public Works, on behalf of tho Government and the people of New Zealand, expressed appreciation at tho splendid behaviour of the visitors, and congratulated them on the excellent football they had played. When the first game was played, a gentleman had remarked to him that the Springboks were a great side, and they had fully borno out that reputation. New Zealanders had been more than delighted with the visit, and it had been a pleasure to everyone to have such a team here. As sportsmen they had made a splendid showing, and one that their country should be very proud of indeed. They welcomed th(? South Africans as citizens, and as representatives of a citizen State which had destinies similar to that of New Zealand. It was aln extraordinary thing that not so long ago they thought differently, and it took a good man and a big-hearted man to overlook differences of the past, but to-day they met the South Africans as equals, and held out the hand of friendship, and asked them to become part of ourselves. The objects of both were the same as regards freedom and liberty of the subject wore concerned. These visits must do a great amount of good, for meeting on the ground of healthy rivalry made for tho better understanding of one another, and if they understood one another then th,ey had gained their end. ■ The South Africans and New Zealanders understood each other a great deal better that, day than they did before. Although they might bo opponents in the field of sport, when it came to the larger questions they would both be found thinking along the same lines, each thoroughly understanding the other's point of view. Continuing, Mr. Coates stated that he was Native Minister, a portfolio he valued highly. The Maori and the pakeha were one in this country. They were proud of the Maori, and he thought the visitors now understood him. When going to the front, Mr. Coates said that he spent about twenty days in South Africa, and he would never forget the hospitality extended to New Zealanders there. He was informed that twentythree members of the Springbok team had taken part in the Great War, and this was, he thought, a record to bo proud of. Ho had met the South African Brigade in France, and it was spoken of in the highest terms. The South Africans would go away feeling that there was a very warm spot in tho

hearts of New Zealanders for them. Now Zealanders were very pleased to have witnessed very good sports playing probably the best game in the Do minion.

"A HAPPY ENDING TO THE TOUR.” "I do not think there could have been a more happy ending to this tour than the draw to-day," said Mr. H. C. Bennett, the manager of the South African team, in responding to the toast. It reflected the opinion of everyone to say: “The best team drew." Ho could assure those present that the South Africans would never forget this hour. They had had the time of their lives, and it had been the most enjoyable experience they had ever had, and no member of the team would go back to South Africa without some feeling of regret that tho tour was over. He was pleased to hear the good reports concerning the behaviour of the team. If they had won every match and lost their reputation as far as behaviour was concerned, they would not be welcomed back to South Africa. The conduct of tho team was more than anything else. The South Africans came from a great football country—at least they thought they did. They came to a country which also thought it was a great football country, but there was this difference: South Africa did not think it was the greatest football country in tho world, but up till ti at day New Zealand was. He did not think there was any doubt about it. For the last ten weeks they had had it dinned into them that New Zealand was the greatest football country in the world. The South Africans were prepared to concede that. Well, all the more honour to South Africa, for it was now the equal of New Zealand. They attributed their success to the fact that they were a much better team than tho people gave them credit for being. He wished to thank the people of Now Zealand for the excellent time they had given them, not only because they wore footballers, but because they were South Africans. They had made many acquaintances, and would like to renew them. If a Naw Zealand team visited South Africa he hoped that a good many of their supporters Would accompany the players, and they would receive a very hearty welcome. There were many other things he might speak about, such as tho game in New Zealand, and compare it with the South Africans’ style of play. However, he did not think it would make rny difference if he did, for each would continue to play in their own way, and every time they met they would have different styles. However, the South Africans wanted New Zealand to maintain tho true amateur spirit. THE VISITORS’ CAPTAIN.

Mr. T, B. Pienaar, captain of the team, said it was with regret the team was leaving this country. The people had been very good to them. When they left South Africa they were told they were in for a strenuous tour, and they realised it now. Ho had hoped to take back the mythical ashes as a remembrance of New Zealand, but his hopes had not been realised, for the games had ended with honours even. He thought New Zealand had made marvellous progress for a young country, and believed it was destined to play a great part in tho future of the southern seas.

Mr. Bennett proposed the toast, "The New Zealand Team and the New Zealand Rugby Union," and paid a high tribute to the latter for their pluck in inviting the South African team to New Zealand. Regarding the New Zealand team, he said no series of games had ever been played within his knowledge in which-such sporting spirit had been shown as those between New Zealand and South Africa. To a certain extent, while his team thought they should have beaten New Zealand, in the circumstances they were satisfied a draw was the best ending to the tour. Mr. G. W. Slade, chairman of the Management Committee of the New Zealand Union, said that the union had set out to make the tour a success as far as the South Africans were concerned, and they had succeeded. They had only £2OOO when they invited the South Africans here, and everything went right from the start, as far as the financial side of the tour was concerned. The New Zealand Union had been abused in connection with the visit of the Springboks, but he would take tho blame as he considered the union had done the right thing. The selectors had also been adversely criticised, but they had done their work conscientiously. Mr. E. Roberts, captain of tho New Zealand team, also responded. Mr. "Boy” Morkel proposed the toast "The Referee," and paid a high tribute to tho work of Mr. Neilson, who controlled the Test match on Saturday. Tho toast “The Chairman" was proposed by the Hon. Dr. Pomare. TROPHIES AWARDED.

During tho evening it was announced that Steel had won the cup presented by Messrs. Oswald, Smith, and Co., Dunedin, on behalf of an English film, for the best back in the three Tests. He also secured the medal for the best back on Saturday, while Van Rooyen received the medal for the best forward, llie medals in the first Teat match were won by Michau (forward) and 11. E. Nicholls (back), and in the second lest match by G P Morkel (back) and Bellis (forward). All tho medals were presented bv the Dominion Sportsmen’s Association. and were handed to the winners bv the secretary, Mr. C. Lindergreen. On lie-half of residents of Tirnaru who witnessed the -first Test match at Dunedin. Mr. Pienaar presented a gold medal to Steel.

VARIOUS OPINIONS

ON MISCELLANFGUS SUBJECTS. An old Rugby player: "I only saw the first three-parts of the game (owing to the water getting into my boots J had to quit), but I should say on what I saw that tho New Zealanders were playing a fine defensive game agamst a better side.” . , A Springbok: “Springboks don t like the water, but when they have to take to it they are strong swimmers." 1 last year’s Rep.: "It was an even go*. For the first half I thought our forwards were tired, but they did shake things up merrily towards the end A.’’referee: "The Springboks gave us the best exhibition of line-kicking I have seen since the days of Tom Ellison and Tabby Wynynrd.” . A young lady: "But what is the use of giving them different coloured! jerseys, when one mud-colour would do? Tho cynical school inspector (to another of' the breed): "And I thought I was the only fool to come up here toA southern player (in defence;: "Such fine taking and kicking was enough to tire any pack of forwards in the world.” A regular Saturday fan: "I shudder to think what would have occurred had the weather been fine and the ground l' ard -” . T From the western bank: Oh. yes, I was there, but never saw the game. T had a, splendid view of a well-ribbed umbrella." . , A lady querist (after an episode): But why make it so obvious by throwing them un in the air?" An old hand: "On such a ground in such rain it was anyone’s game from the outset. Such conditions make for lucky or unlucky chances, and that no side scored showed how evenly the sides were matched.”

REPRESENTATIVE VIEWS

Seen after the match. E. Roberts, captain of the New Zealand team, said that, cmifiidering tho conditions a draw was a fair indication of the game. The All Blacks had, he thought, in the circumstances played very well. Mr. Bennett, manager of the Springboks. remarked as the. crowd were leaving the ground: "Wo are well phased with the result, and I am sure South Africa will be. Th# better team drew 1'

THE CROWD IN THE RAIN

UNPRECEDENTED FORTITUDE

REMARKABLE SCENES

And it rained, and rained, and rained! All loyalists had prayed to send ram that the New Zealanders might have nice soft places to fall on. The prayers were answered. From Friday evening it rained steadily through the night, and kept on throughout Saturday morning, broken, only by an occasional lull. -The longest, and to some the most hopeful lull, was at about 11 a.m., when the sun made a gallant attempt to break through the dull grey pall above, but retired disgruntled before a fresh smother of grey mist which had no shape or form, only one fixed determination to rain, rain, rain. Those who had imagined that people would remain up all night, to lino up in queue at the gates at-5 a.m., were falsa prophets. No such thing happened. A- few people were stirring round the gates at 8 a.m., and a little knot had gathered by 8.30 a.m., when some of the officials arrived. Some of these grew quite indignant at the gates not being immediately thrown open for them to select their places. The gates were opened at 9 a.m., but the public only dribbled in up till 10 o’clock, the news having by that time got round that the curtain-raisers were not going to be played. From 10 a.m. the numbers began to thicken up, and half an hour later the stream had commenced in good earnest, even though it rained and rained and rained. By 11.30 a.m. the western bank was more than half covered with overcoated (humanity, and the northern and southern terraces were beginning to fill up. Some people took shelter in the stands for a conple of hours before venturing out into the rain to take up positions for the day. .

Boards and Boxes.

After noon the trams began to arrivs packed with people, and from that on until 2 p.m. there was no cessation in the stream of people who arrived from the city by tram, car, or ’bus, all eager to "get in and set" for tho great game. These, did not come unprovided; and all were in the gayest of humours, though it still rained and rained and rained. Thousands brought up pieces of board, ends of fruit cases, sacks, tarpaulins, cushions, buckets, boxes, stools, etc., something, anything, to separate them from the soaking earth, and few, if any, got a chance to use them, os it was a "case of standing up with most people outside the stands and the chairs. The persistent rain made it too risky a proceeding to trust to tho protection of a board or sack. The scene at 1.30 p.m. ’wad quite unique. By that time the whole of the western bank and northern and southern terraces had filled l up, and it looked as though someone had discovered the secret of umbrella seed, and had sown them round three sides of the ground, as there were very few individuals to be seen under tho crop of black unmbrellas which studded, and quite obscured, tho bank.

A Brain Wave.

Perhaps the • brainiest commercial thought of the day was that of the person who thought of tho soldiers’ oilsheets. As the morning wore on slowly it became evident that very few coats would resist the dreadful persistency of the rain, and oven those with the best of rainproofs bethought themselves of extra means of protection. This was -forthcoming as something heaven sent. Some genius had thought of the soldiers’ oil-shepl-, and ffiad made a bargain with the Defence Department for some hundreds of them at a nominal price, and ns soon as tho bundles arrived they ’sold like hot cakes at 2s. 6d. each, which showed a very handsome profit on the purchase price, and still left the purchaser happy in his bargain. Within an hour, every second man seemed to bo wearing one of the sheets over his shoulders and tied with string across tho front.

Trouble in tho North-West Comer.

As the terraces, north and south, became full, the ends of the western bank, already filled, began to bo impinged upon by the crowd. Those actually on the- face of the western bank had a full uninterrupted view of the field, but in the north-west corner the land dips slightly from the edge instead of rising from it, and from such a jiosition only a third to a half of the playing field was visible, yet many had to be content with that view. The way to this part of the ground was by a river of yellow mud that flowed along parallel with the northern fence. Then one had to climb a treacherous hill, agush with streams of water, which had been trampled by thousands of feet into a squishy sloping quagmire of grey slush. Up this tricky slope thousands found their way, not all without accident. Every now and then there would bo a burst of laughter, as some unfortunate individual fell sprawling into the sticky mud. There wero those, too, who had made too much interior provision against the damp, who tried to mount the slippery slope, and ended up by simply wallowing in the muck—anything but an uplifting sight. And these people stood for three hours, practically in running water. Among the comical sights at this corner were a dozen men cooped up in a hen-house, and more than ano stationed in adjoining backyards, held sheets of corrugated iron over their heads aij shelter. At last the bell rang from the dressing-sheds, nnd as tho Highland Pipe Band, which had strutted the green in proud defiance of the looming heavens, struck up a skirling welcome, the rain recognising the moment ns one for a special effort literally poured down as tho teams took the flooded field. The Number Present.

There was ho way of computing the number present at the park on Saturday, as it will not ba known until this afternoon how many tickets were sold in the city and country for tlio match. These, with the number of those registered at tho turnstiles, those who occupied the stands, with these who entered at the western gate, should make up a fairly approximate estimate of the number present. Mr. H. E. Combs, the secretary of the New Zealand Rugby Union, who knows the capacity of the ground very well, considered" ’ That there were about 28,000 present Had the weather proved fine, tins number would probably have been augmented by another 10,000. Mr. Combs stated that the only money counted on Saturday evening was that taken at the turnstiles. He would not be able to say what the receipts were until Monday night or Tuesday, as the returns had still to come in from the various places from which tickets had been disbursed. SPRINGBOKS LEAVE TO-DAY The South African team will leave for Sydney by the Tahiti to-day, en route for Cape Town. THE CURTAIN-RAISERS To preserve the ground for the Test match it was decided to postpone the curtain-raisers. The Wairarapa-Wel-lington schoolboys' match was to have been played at Emerson Street, but it was found to be too wet for the boys to take the field. AUCKLAND CHAMPIONSHIP. By Telearanh —Press Association. Auckland, September 18. Grafton won tho senior club championship, beating Grammar by 13 points to 8.

SATISFACTION AT CAPETOWN

FITTING END TO MAGNIFICENT TOUR TRIBUTE TO NEW ZEALANDERS’ SPORTSMANSHIP. (Rec. September 19, 0.35 a.m.) Cape Town, September 17. Tho result of to-day’s wonderful match at Wellington was received with unbounded satisfaction as the fitting end of a magnificent tour. Whatever disappointment may be felt at the undecisive outcome of the Test matches is swallowed up in gratification at the success of the tour, which is regarded as a complete vindication of the Springbok tactics and of appreciation of the splendid sportsmanship of the New Zealand-ers.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. THE SPRINGBOKS’ RECORD

Matches played £3, won 19, draun 2, lost 2.

THE NELSON INCIDENT

MR H. C. BENNETT’S EXPLANATION.

Speaking at the dinner given by the New Zealand Rugby Union on Saturday evening, Mr. H. C. Bennett, manager of tho South African team, made a statement concerning his recent remarks at Nelson in connection with tne travelling arrangements for the team. Mr. Bennett eaid that it was his unfortunate duty on occasions to give expression to certain, complaints grievances on behalf of the team, io a certain extent his utterances had been taken up the wrong way so far as the Press was concerned. In regard to the visit of the Springboks to Nelson, it had bean stated that he inferred the hardships experienced were intentionally caused \jybtli. a view to injuring /the South African team that was to play in tho third Test match. Now that, of course, was not the implication ho intended should be taken from his remarks. The statement as printed was absolutely correct, but tho reporter _at Nelson did not understand his smile. The remarks were intended to a. certain extent to be humorous, and ho never for one moment wished to imply that the hardships were deliberately caused by tho New Zealand Rugby Union so, as to impair their chances in the Test match. There had been many instances where complaints had been made, but that happened on every tour, and. his only reason for making complaint, was to ensure comfort for his team. The South Africans were made ns comfortable as possible, and the grievances must not be taken too literally. So far as tho New Zealand Union and the provincial unions wore concerned, every member had gone out of his way to make the stay of the South Africans as pleasant as possible. Whatever cause for complaint he had had woe purely the result of inexperience on the part of tho officials. Tho South Africans would leave this countiy without one single grievance agatjnst the New Zealand people or the-'-New Zealand Union. Everyone had done their utmost to make them aa comfortable as possible.

IRE RECENT TEST

(To the Editor.)

Sir, —Do you not think the Management Committee of tho New Zealand Rugby Union showed a lack of initiative and wisdom in not arranging for the Test match to take place an hour earlier on Saturday? When it became obvious that there was no possibility of the weather clearing, and it became necessary to postpone all curtain-raisers, surely the big match could have been played a little earlier. If extras had been got out it would not have taken long for the information to have become general, aud it would! have been better for players and public alike. The playing ground was in a much worse condition at 3 o'clock than it was at 2, and before tho game was finished it was more like a lake than a football field. I consider a mistake was made in timing the match so late in the first place, seeing that the day was practically observed as a holiday, and the people were intent on getting there early. As it was, the players could hardly be distinguished towards tho finish by many, owing to the bail light. This might have been obviated had the controlling powers risen to the occasion and started tho match at, say, 1.45 p.m.—l am, etc., J.R.R.

OTAGO BEAT TARANAKI

Ry Teleeranh—Press Association

Nfew Plymouth, September 17. A match between Otago .and Taranaki was played here to-day in tho presence of about 2000 spectators. Despite heavy rain during the whole of the previous night, tho ground was in fair condition; but light rain during tho match re ado tho handling of the ball difficult. Tho game was chiefly confined to tho forwards, though at times botli sides essayed passing bouts. The Otago forwards wore superior to the Taranaki, particularly in tho loose; and to that they largely owe their victory. Otago played with the wind in tho first spell. Whittington scored for Taranaki- as a result of fast following up within less than a minute of tho kick off. Thereafter Otago had the better of the game, and scored 8 points, Owles goaling from a penalty, while Perry scored from a passing bout, and Owles converted.

The second spell was more even, each side taking a turn in attack. M'Naugh(on scored by fast following up tor Otago, while Hickey scored for Taranaki, as the result of a fine run at the end of a passing bout. Neither try was converted, and the gome ended: Otago, 11; Taranaki, 6.

SOUTHLAND DEFEAT CANTERBURY By Telegranh.—Press Association. Christchurch, September 18. The Southland-Canterbury match was played m steady rain. There was a small attendance. On the whole, SouthIn nd had the ’better of the game, handling the greasy ball very effectively, though in tho early stages Canterbury lost several good chances through their inferiority in respect of controlling the ball.

Canterbury kicked off and took the play to the visitors' line, but were sent back to defend their goal. A kick by Burson was smothered, and Brown got over. Diack failed to convert. Ihe homo team opened up the game, and the visitors were kept in their own territory. A nice passing rush on their part was

spoiled by Diack’s dropping the bell. From loose play, the local forwards got tho ball out to the rearguard, and Wilson crossed at the corner. No goal resulted. Southland were robbed of a try by a knock-on, nnd Canterbury forced, as did Southland a few minutes later. O’Kane broke away, but knocked-on two yards from the line, and from the resulting scrum Canterbury cleared. The spell ended with tho scores even. On resuming, Southland pressed, and after some up-and-down play Cockroft potted a good goal for Southland. Offside play robbed Canterbury of a try, and a little later Cummings got over, but lost the ball. Orchard just mtesed with a pot. Canterbury were very aggressive, and Southland were compelled to force on several occasions. The visitors’ forwards then asserted themselves. They carried play to Canterbury’s twenty-five, where Mackenzie secured nnd passed to Diack, who dashed over at the corner nnd added tho extra P c ‘- T -y®The game ended four minutes later with tlio score: Southland, 12; Canteronry, 3. Mr R M'Konzie, Dunedin, was referee.

THE FOURTH TEST.

Extensive arrangements havo boon made to dry clean and press the thousands of suits, costumes, overcoats, etc. that heranie mud-stained or water-marked during fho heavy rain at the never-to-be-forgotten football match on Saturday. Hundreds of hats have already reached us to bo TCbloeked. Our process will restore these equal to n< Goods may bo left at any of our depots, or a ring on the ’phono, 448 or 613 (either number), will bring one of our motor-vans to vour door. , We pay return postage on country are situated as under:—Willis Street (opposite Y.M.C.A.); Vivian street (near Cuba Street); Mpleswortb Street (near Parliamentary Bldgs.): Kent terrace (near Tram Junction); Manners Street (Royal Oak Buildings.); Newtown (at Island Bay .TunctionJ. Works: 88-89 Hanson Street. P'}?" 0 Nos. 613 or 4-18 (either number). Iho Victoria T/aundry. Co., Limited. This is a sure* win for you.

IN AUSTRALIA. New South Wales Won Points. F. A. 25 10 New South Wales Won 16 11 New South Wales Won 28 9 Metropolis Won 14 S IN NEW Wanganui ZEALAND. Won 11 0 Draw 0 0 Wairarapa Won 18 3 Wellington. Won 8 3 W&stland Won 38 3 Canterbury Lost 4 6 South Canterbury . Won 31 3 Southland Won 12 0 New Zealand Won Lost 11 3 13 Manawatu Won 3 0 Auckland Won 21 8 Bay of Plenty New Zealand Won Won 17 9 9 5 W on 6 0 W on 14 Maori Team Won 9 8 Nelson-Marlborough W r on 26 3 Draw 0 ■ 1 327 119