ASSOCIATION CODE

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVII, Issue 155, 2 June 1937, Page 14

ASSOCIATION CODE

WELLINGTON v. ENGLAND. LOCAL COMMENTS. (By “Centrei-Half.”) It has been stated by a competent judge that Allan, the Thistle Palmerston North captain who represented the Manawatu in the Wellington v. England match, was the only forward on the home side who made an attempt to score ; the others it seemed, were worried by an attack of inferiority complex. Leslie, the Wellington centre forward, was completely overshadowed by Joy, the Arsenal, amateur, and had no opportunity to get within shooting range of the visitors’ goal. Followers of the code are unable to understand why J. Hatchard (Marist) whose position is inside left, has been selected inside right for the first Test, at Dunedin on Saturday.

An outstanding feature of the- English team’s play was that the players were always in position—a fact which should be an object lesson to Maoriland’s followers of the code. * If the Wellington crowd of. 10,1)00 spectators is an indication of the attendances which may bo expected throughout New Zealand, this tour should show a large credit balance. A member of the local executive who was present at the match in Wellington noticed the presence of many Rugby enthusiasts on the stand and hopes that it is indicative of a revival of interest in the round ball game. Again the local association hns approached the Headmasters’ Association with regard to tho recognition of soccer in the primary schools of the district, and again it has been turned down. Officials would like to know the reason.

It is interesting to recall, in view of the Test match on Saturday next, that when the Australian team played New Zealand at Dunedin . last year, they won by seven goals to one. Ivompson, played a very safe and steady game in goal for Thistle at the North Street Park on Saturday. His handling of high shots was masterly. Grant, at right back, was a little careless with his kicking and would play a better game if lie eliminated the sliding charge. Curtis played a steady game and was very pretty in the clearing of Iris lines. Moore, left half, was a hard worker all the time. Forbes, centre half, was usually to be seen where the fight was thickest. Stewart, right half, is undoubtedly the best half-back in the Thistle team. Ho was on the ball all the time and led the forwards well. McElhone, right wing, should cut in more with the ball. Hooker, at centre, had an off day. McShanc, inside left, was very tricky. He supported his other forwards well and had a good strong shot. Downes, left wing, who is a natural left-footer, was perfect in his crossing and knew just where to put the ball.