SOCCER

Grey River Argus, 17 September 1934, Page 3

SOCCER

CHATHAM CUP. AUCKLANDERS AVIN. WELLINGTON, September 16. The largest gathering (7000) to attend a Soccer match at Wellington since the Chinese team’s visit in 1924 saw Thistle (Auckland) defeat Thistle (Christchurch) by 2 to 1 in the Chatham Cup final. The game was made the occasion of a Scottish celebration, pipers and Highland dancers entertaining the crowd. The Governor-General and Lady Bledisloe were present, the former presenting the Cup to the Auckland team. The match was not so good as some previous contests, but nevertheless was fast and exciting. There was little between the teams, but credit must go to Auckland, who played a man short throughout the second spell, through Mc.Cosh, the captain and right back, injuring his leg. Adam scored for Christchurch in the first spell, and in the second Sutherland, Christchurch goalie, attempting to clear, deflected the ball into his own net. Wood also scored.

’l’he weather was perfect for the game, and the ground was in good order. Auckland kicked off against the wind, and pretty short passing of the Auckland halves and forwards carved holes in the Christchurch defence, but trouble was averted with line kicks. From a free kick at half-wav G. Sutherland placed nicely for I). Sutherland to head over. The Chrisfehurch attack was too cautions, and every time the southerners broke through Auckland showed a. sound defence. Finally Walker crossed nicely for Adam to run the ball into the Auckland net. Half-time found the scores unaltered. In the second half Christchurch, facing an easier wind than Auckland in the first spell, immediately attacked, but brilliant work by Gerrard and lack of direction in shooting saved. Auckland were playing a skilful back game and curbed the Christchurch attack. Then Auckland set up a series of attacks, in which Wood shone. After an early Christchurch attack had been beaten off, the northern side provided thrills by its fight for the advantage. From well out, Watson goaled, and the scores were even. Christchurch took the offensive and all Gerrard’s brilliance was needed to save scores as the southerners came through a gap left, iti the line. Shortly before the close Wood goaled. CHR.ISTC.’HURCH. September 15. Al Asso<da<tion foot la 11 I‘angers 4, beat Linwood 2. Di Ihe English Cup semifinal, St. Albans 2, beat Western 1.