FOOTBALL.

Golden Bay Argus, Volume VI, Issue 61, 29 July 1897, Page 4

FOOTBALL.

The Senior Cup match played last Saturday between Golden Bay and Collingwood resulted, after a stubbornly fought game, in a draw, neither side scoring. Before the game started matters looked unpromising for a pleasant game, lor Golden Bay objected to Mr J. W. R,jley refereeing, although he was the only duly appointed referee on the ground. However, Golden Bay gave way and the game commenced. And what a game 1 Appealing, disputing the referee's decisions, scragging, coarse language, fighting, and challenges to light! The majority of the players behaved as gentlemen, and it is a great pity that what would have proved a most enjoyable and interesting game to the spectators, including a number of ladies, and the players themselves, should have been made the reverse by a few who were unable to control their tempers, their tongues, and their hands. One of the Golden Bay players was ordered ofl the ground by the referee, and several others deserved a like fate. Golden Bay were the greatest, but not the only, offenders. The referee, whose task is a thankless one, and who acts simply because he loves the game, should be treated in a gentlemanly manner, and not have deci-ions called in question ond threats made to " punch his head" after tach match, because his decisions are not pleasing to certain players whose idfas are more of the " Fitzsimmons" than Football order.

We hope that future games will be characterised by that friendly rivalry which should animate all athletics. The result of this match makes both Clubs still even for the Cup, and an extra match will therefore have to be played. The date of the next Senior Cup mutch between Collingwood and Golden Bay will be fixed at a meeting of the Union to be held at Takaka on Saturday. Goldkn Bay Rkps. v. Nklson, This match, which was fixed for Saturday next at Takaka, has heen declared off, the Nelson Club nut being able to laise a learn to visit our district.