MANAWATU REP. TEAM.

Feilding Star, Volume I, Issue 294, 18 June 1907, Page 4

MANAWATU REP. TEAM.

Says "Spectator" in the Manawatu Standard: — Having in view the indifferent form displayed by the majority of threequarters this season, and further, that there are a number of forwards of about the same calibre in the district, it is generally acknowledged that the selectors ( had a somewhat difficult bak to pick a team that would give universal satisfaction. Seeing that there is a dearth of first-class backs, one also wonders why two five-eighths are to be played. It would be better policy to play two good and experienced wingers like A. McMinn and R. Monro in preference to a five-eighths of such unknown i quality as Piraai. The choice of fullback rested between J. Hughes and Trevena. Hughes plays brilliant club football, but has not always been a success in rep. matches. Having seen Trevena in three or four games this season, I consider him the best full-back in the district, and although he appears somewhat awkward and ungainly, he is very safe. Stalker can usually be relied upon to play a good game, and Carroll has the makings of a fine back. Goodbehere is the weak spot in the team, and in a hard-fought game cannot be described as sound either on the attack or defence. Martis or 1 W .Hall would prove superior in the position, preference being given to the former, who plays with great dash and is a deadly tackier, and would, if given openings, prove dangerous when near the line. Skelley is well known, and no exception can be taken to his inclusion. Pirani has shown pace when playing against weak back teams, and with Ongley to make the opening^ for him. Ongley is at his best this season, and plays a fine all-round game. Boon has only played one or two games at wing forward this season, and is evidently picked on last year's form. However, he always plays solid football, and, moreover as a skipper he is second to none. Little exception can be taken to the forwards, and no donbt they will prove one of the best packs that have ever represented Manawatu.