ALL BLACKS’ TEST TEAM FOR TO-DAY

Grey River Argus, 28 June 1947, Page 3

ALL BLACKS’ TEST TEAM FOR TO-DAY

SYDNEY, June 27.

Ginty Lush, in the Daily Telegraph, says that Scott will play in the test and that the All Blacks will stick to the same pack which beat Australia, 13-5, in the first test. He say that the only changes will be that Mason will replace McLean on the wing and J. C. Kearney will replace Couch. Scott is still considered a doubtful starter. He was brought to Sydney by car from Newcastle on Wednesday for treatment of an injured groin and septic poisoning. The injuries have responded well to treatment, but he was confined to bed yesterday.

Lush tips Australia to win the test. He contends that in training the Australian forwards have shown that they have toughness to combat the fiery All Black pack. The breakaways, McLean and Buchan, have been given special instructions in following the ball through the scrum. The special moves tried yesterday by the backs indicate they have surprises to spring on the New Zealanders when in attacking positions. The Australian line-out methods have been revised, and the coaches. Messrs Wallace and’ Masters, are completely satisfied that the team will do its best. Three New Zealanders, Simpson, Willocks and Dalton have black eyes. Scott in Form .(Rec 8.35) SYDNEY, June 27. Scott showed no ill effects after training at the Coogee Oval to-day. He practiced shots at goal from the side line and was' always on tne target. So far he has scored 57 points in live matches, including his record breaking 18 against New South Wales last Saturday. “Kearney occupied the first five eighth position during the tiaining to-day, which indicates that he will be preferred to Couch in the All Black’s test line-up tomorrow.” says Mr E. W. Kann in the Sydney “'Sun”. Goddard' and Smith both had runs at centre.

“Big interest centres in whether Johnny Smith, who was omitted from the first test team, will be given a chance tomorrow. Goddard, on his Australian form, can hardly be left out, so that the New Zealand selectors have a problem to find a place for Smith.” An inqury to the left knee which was sustained yesterday is given by E. W. Kann in the Sun as the reason why the All Black vice-captain, F. G. Hobbs will not play in the second test.

"After his good display against Newcastle, Johnny Smith may beat M. P. Goddard for the centre position.” says Kann. “The selectors are also undecided about the first-five eighth position, for which M. 8.. Couch and J. C. Kearney have been bracketed. Couch shows more dash and initiative than Kearney.” The Queensland centre, Kevin Bourke, said to be the hardesttackling back in Australia, will play for Australia in the second test tomorrow. He was selected for the first test team, but withdrew because of an injured shoulder. nei.