TAITA v. ATHLETIC

Hutt News, Volume 20, Issue 47, 28 May 1947, Page 12

TAITA v. ATHLETIC

Taita were unlucky to be beaten 14-11 by At lib lie at Prince o!" Wales Park, as territorially they had the upper hand and it was not until the las' tfii minutes of the match that Athletic took the lead. Both teams endeavoured to keep the play open in the early stages and Talta's backline gave pii improved performance, with Bowles playing at first five-eighth. His display was spoiled by his inclination to hold on too long and when he overcomes this fault he will be -i player that should suit the style of VVallis, who proved to be more dangerous on attack when further from the scrum. A brilliant cut through by this player made an opening for Wyatt to score which he converted. Shortly afterwards Athletic equalhed with a converted try. Tnere was no further score in the first half. Taltn had the lead in the second spell, when McLennan kicked a penalty from a scrum infringement, but did not hold it for long, as poor fielding and indecision among the backs allowed the Athletic full-back to snap up .the ball to score an unconverted try. Both teams confined play to the forwards at this stage and a duel between two hard-working packs ensued with Taita having slightly the better of the play. From a scrum Ferretti kicked deep into Athletic territory. Mcintosh, following up fast, scored in the corner. On the two occasions that Athletic entered Taita territory in the closing stage? of the game they were awarded penalties in handy positions and the sis points gained gave them the match. Junior. -Taita 6, Onslow (>. Third.—-Taita !), Wainui C. Fourth.-—Taita 3'.!. Eastbourne ".