THE ALL BLACKS

Grey River Argus, 12 April 1928, Page 5

THE ALL BLACKS

EXHIBITION GAME At Wellington WELLINGTON, April 11. The All Blacks were seen to-day in an exhibition match on an ideal ground in fine* weather, in the presence of over 5000 spectators. Maurice Brownlie led one team, and Mark Nicholls the other. Brownlie’s team won by 23 points to 21. Tries for the winners were scored by Robilliard (4), Kilby and Alley. McGregor kicked a penalty, and also kicked owe* goal. For the losers, .tries were scored by Nicholls, Rushbrook, C. Brownlie and Finlayson (2). Strang converted three tries. The crowd saw glimpses of form good enough to suggest that the side, has material which should settle down' into a formidable combination when* condition and combination have been secured. The play was not brilliant, and hard work was not greatly in evidence, but the forwards showed power. I The backs went well in flashes. An All Black’s Status ALLEY NOT A “PRO.” WELLINGTON, April 11. Regarding a report from South Africa about Alley (the Canterbury player’s) eligibility to play for the All Blacks, on the coming tour, the Chairman of the New Zealand Rugby Union, Mr Dean, expressed surprise at the suggestion made in regard to Alley’s status, i.e., that*, having once competed in professional athletics, he was debarred from playing amateur Rugby. Alley had certainly received a small cash prize at a sports meeting some time ago, and. in consequence, was prevented from taking part in the New Zealand amateur athletic championships last December. The New Zealand Amateur Athletic Council, however, reinstated him just afterwards, and he now holds the Canterbury and the New Zealand Varsity amateur championship. As far as the rules of the New Zealand Rugby Union as to professionalism are concerned, ne i has committed no breach whatsoever.