RUGBY

Evening Post, Volume CIII, Issue 141, 17 June 1922, Page 9

RUGBY

WEDNESDAY'S MATCH.

The first representative match of th» season was a close call for Wellington, and before the match with Taranaki is played nest month, it would be surprising if several changes were not inada in the team which took the field ' oil Wednesday last against the 'Maoris. Wellington received a taste of splendid tackling, and it Tevealed the weaknesses in the local back division. The two wing-three-quarters, Jackson and Tunnington did little to justify, their inclusion. The keenness of the Maoris on defence, gave the two wingers a lot of trouble, but more than that, both men were unreliable when it came to handling the ball and stopping rushes. Tunnington, who is really a half-back, and has played his best games in that position, will not give much trouble to opposing teams unless he has plenty of room in which to work. He is only in the making, however, and should improve with Billy Wallace's coaching. JacksoD's speed will be dangerous, but he met his match against the Maoris. It is unfortunate that this player's sight is not good. Siddells, as in club football, was not a success as five-eighths. Aitken was easily the best of the Wellington backs; Mark Nicholls was sound, but. his kicking was at fault; and Brook, at full-back, was sure..; Another excellent half-back has been found in M'Cleary. He made many opportunities, for those behind him, whipping the bailout cleanly, and using fine judgment in doing so. Sometimes when his first five-eighth appeared likely to be caught, he cut him out and sent the ball on to the next man. More might have beeii seen of M'Cleary had the ball come out from the scrum more freely. The work of the pack could have been better, though the members were nearly all willing workers. Troy proved that he is a great opportunist. M'Rae was out of his place. Standen was always in the hunt, quick to take advantage of openings in the loose.

The Maoris in proper working order, will be a great side. In Matui they have a full-back of many qualities, while the three-quarter line is made up of excellent material. J. Blake, the ex St. Patrick's College boy, has become a player of very fine type. Jacob- can still be regarded as one of the best wing-forwards in the Dominion. The Maoris should do well on their tour, the first match of which is to be played next' Saturday against New South Wales.