BRITISH FOOTBALLERS IN AUCKLAND.

Evening Post, Volume LXXX, Issue 15, 18 July 1910, Page 7

BRITISH FOOTBALLERS IN AUCKLAND.

♦ NOT PROFESSIONALS. [BY TELEGRAPH — PRESS ASSOCIATION.] AUCKLAND, This Day. The Northern Union British team of footballers were welcomed by tho Mayor of Auckland this morning. Mr. Bagnall said he hoped the game would bo played in the best spirit, free from tho roughness and objectionable practices unfortunately creeping into football lately. The game ought to be played to afford enjoyment for all. Tho managers of the team (Messrs. Houghton and Clifford) responded. Interviewed, Mr. Houghton said the team was surprised at the hold the Northern Union game had on the public in Australia. The team was fully representative of England, and had been sent as a missionary enterprise. The English Union was prepared to 'ose a thousand pounds on the tour, but the receipts exceeded tho 'most sanguine expectations. The team was not composed of professionals ; every man worked for a living. They were allowed 10s on board steamer, and a pound a week while playing. Each married man was allowed an additional pound while he was absent. Of any profit from the tour the players divided one-, third as a bonus. The allegations of rough play were exaggerated. Any unfair or objectionable tactics were severely deal vvith. The team will play its first match on Wednesday against Maoris.