FIRST SOCCER TEST

Evening Star, Issue 22379, 1 July 1936, Page 4

FIRST SOCCER TEST

AUSTRALIA V. NEW ZEALAND With an equal number of victories to the credit of each country, and the Australian team, so far, in thinning vein, the question is being asked; Can New, Zealand stem the tide of victory ? There are those competent to judge who consider that, one of the finest games in history will be seen. The New Zealand selectors have picked an experienced and well-bal-anced side, which should be capable of placing New Zealand one up, with two to play. Logan Park has never been in better order and, given ordinary conditions, a.record crowd can be expected. Some information about the Australian personnel should be interesting:— S. A. Storey, managqy, is chairman of the Australian Soccer Association, a position he has held for 10 years. He toured New Zealand as assistant manager and player in 1923 ; Alex. Cameron (captain), is Australia’s greatest international, having represented her against Canada, England, China, Czechoslovakia, and New Caledonia. He won his international cap at 17, and played in every test against Canada, England, -and China. George H. Smith represented Australia as centre forward for the last four years, and is a splendid shot and prolific goal scorer. James Harden (half) has been a prominent representative for the past seven years. Is a first-class half. D. A. Love is a Queenslander, usually playing centre half. E, H. Bryant is acclaimed New South Wales’s best right half. James Wilkinson is. the “baby” of the team. He plays inside or outside right, and his placing is a feature. James M'Nabb is Australia’s greatest goalkeeper for many seasons. W. Price comes with a great reputation. His ball control is equal to the world’s best. B. Forrest (Victoria), is very fast and an accurate shot. J. B. (“ Digger ”) Evans is Australia’s greatest full-back for many years. James Osborne has represented New South Wales for the last eight years. A noted spot-kicker. Out of 47 penalties only two have been stopped by the goalkeeper.