BIG HOCKEY

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLV, Issue 186, 11 July 1925, Page 7

BIG HOCKEY

AUSTRALIA v. MANAWATU

WEDNESDAY'S GREAT ATTRACTION. Wednesday next will mark tho opening of tho tour of the Australian hockey team when Palmerston North will he accorded the honour of staging the first fixture, the elect of Manawatu being put forward in opposition. The visitors arc preceded with a fine reputation, and, based on the fact that tlie stars of the 1922 team are again to be found included in tho ranks, there appears to be just cause for the statement that they will prove a more formidable proposition than on the previous visit. Of the former eleven the names of Abel and Seaman again figure and are in themselves sufficient indication of the standard of player who will take the field on Wednesday. Manawatu are, however, hopeful that they will prove worthy opponents and due preparation has been made to put in the field the strongest side which the district has got together for many years past, and , a splendid exhibition should he forthcoming. The match has been set down for tho Showgrounds which have been secured for the occasion, and with its fine stand will he able to accommodate the crowd in comfort. The area, itself has been specially prepared for tho occasion, and, if the present indications for good weather are maintained, onlookers will he treated to some sparkling hockey. At its best fho game can he tremendously fast, and to the uninitiated a pleasing spectacle will be presented. As curtain-raiser to the men’s match, the lad ; es’ of the Southern Hawke's Bay .and Manawatu will he in opposition, and as these teams have in the past fought out many keen contests, an interesting game should result.