FORM AT NELSON

Evening Post, Volume CXIX, Issue 128, 1 June 1935, Page 22

FORM AT NELSON

PLAYERS IN THE TRIAL

Although conditions were unfavourable, play in the trial match at Nelson had some pleasing features. The following items are taken from the "Nelson Evening Mail":— A disappointing .feature ,pf : the game

was the weak tackling on both sides. The only two who really impressed in the tackling department were Watson and Gilbert. The tackling among the forwards was lamentably weak, players in possession of the ball being allowed to weave their way past one after the other without any serious attempt being made at tackling. It was refreshing to see the Northern centre Watson fly in for his solid tackles and the same can be said for Gilbert. An ' outstanding exposition of fullback play was given by Gilbert whose tackling, handling, and kicking was almost faultless throughout, despite the conditions. He kicked three fine goals and saved his side many points by masterly defence. Davidson., Coast's half-back, was a tower of strength both on attack and defence. His attractive game was topped off by a splendid solo try. Lane and Lunn, the Northern fiveeigths, were the best combination seen on the local ground for many years. The former, playing in the inside position, opened the play out well and showed plenty of speed. He was fed nicely by McMahon who played surprisingly well. However, Lunn was the more impressive. He beat his opposing five-eighth time after time and gave an all round finished display. Busch (Northern) was the best winger. He fully lived up to his reputation, invariably being dangerous, and he provided some of the highlights of the game by his determined running. Holder suffered from lack of opportunity, but on one occasion when a sudden change in the direction of the play gave him a chance he made a fine dash to the full back before generously giving the ball to Ahem who crossed the line. • Watson (Northern) overshadowed his opponent, and showed a return to his best form: All day he showed out by his solid tackling, and generalship. He played' the. real centre's game in making the best possible opportunities for his wingers. He scored under the posts from a spectacular dash in which he forced a hole through the defence. All the forwards were of the hardworking, rugged type. For Coast, King, Harding, Hobertson, and McNeight were the outstanding quartet. Solid workers in the tight they were ever

ready to contribute their share in the loose open play. For the Northern team (Marl-borough-Nelson-Golden Bay-Motueka) McLean performed with distinction. He was in front of practically, every attack and was.always in support after others had. failed. Lovell and Max were stalwarts for their side, the former being the more impressive, while Dando, in addition to being, the better! rake, took a prominent part in the general play..