RUGBY NOTES.

Manawatu Times, Volume XLVII, Issue 2753, 20 September 1923, Page 9

RUGBY NOTES.

(By "Follow Up.") Last Saturday saw the local representatives tako the field again after an absence of a few days in the South. Although the team was short of some of the original players, the performance they put up was a pleasure to watch, and as far as the spectators were concerned was something like football. It is a long time since Manawatu played such a line game, and their trip clown South has undoubtedly been most profitable. That they have learned a few tricks goes without saying, and the way the forwards handled the leather in passing rushes was an eye-opener. Sly played a great game, and to see his long.arms gather in the ball from the line-out, and send it to the backs, was pretty to watch. McDonald, although ho had been out of the fray for a few Saturdays, came back as fit as ever, and played easily the best forward game on the field. He again demonstrated his ability to "cut the wind" on Saturday, and had he been able to go on tour it is just a question whether his inclusion would have given Manawatu a few more wins. All the other forwards worked together in fine style, and one noticeable improvement was the fact that they don't kick the ball so hard and so far in forward rushes, and when it bounces conveniently they snap it up and pass. If they do this next Saturday they won't go far off winning. Mair, as full-back, was an utter failure, and should never have been dn that position. Ho seemed to 'regard it as a huge joke, and got too close up. On several occasions he deliberately waited for the ball to bounce, as though he was scared. Had he been alive, Wanganui would never have scored their first try, which, as it was, was practically igven to them through fumbling. All the backs have improved "out ot sibht," especially Mullins. He played a real good gamo and has at least convinced the selectors that he Is worth a place in the team. Brophy was in his usual good form, and created much excitement with his brilliant runs and effective giving ot the "dummy." Bailey, on the wing, did exceptionally well. He is a hard runner and a trier, and for this reason has many admirers.

If this team plays with the sarat dash and combination as last Saturday, Wellington will need all their tricks and speed to beat them.

D. Ball, Foxton.—The game was played parallel with the big grandstand —that is nearly north and south. —Ed. M.D.T.