MAORI ALL BLACK BACKS PRAISED

Grey River Argus, 27 June 1947, Page 7

MAORI ALL BLACK BACKS PRAISED

SYDNEY, June 26. In the Daily Telegraph, Ginty Lush writes: “The four Maori footballers, playing together for the first time in Australia, were star players for New Zealand in the 43-14 victory over the Combined Northern team at Newcastle. They are Peter and Johnny Smith, Bevan and Couch. Although Peter Smith, with four tries, was the only one to score, all played an equal part in the victory. They demoralised their opponent’s defence. Bevan started movements with snappy passes from the base of the scrum. Couch’s handling was faultless and the Maoris combined as if they had played together for years. Peter Smith amazed the spectators with the way in which he picked up a rolling ball.” The Herald's special reporter in Newcastle comments on the magnificent goal-kicking form of the New Zealand full-back, Webster, who scored 19 points. A notable omission from the players from whom the New Zealand test team will be selected is the vicecaptain, who played yesterday, but did not impress. The inclusion of Fraser and Grant indicates that they have thoroughly recovered from the injuries which kept them out since the first test in Brisbane. Both finished yesterday’s game without any signs of distress after playing solidly throughout.