Table Tennis Champions

Northern Advocate, 28 July 1938, Page 6

Table Tennis Champions

[Special to “Northern Advocate.” 1 ] AUCKLAND, This Day. Amazing control of the ball was the outstanding feature of last night’s test match, when Hungary, represented by L. Beliak (American champion, 1938) G. V. Barna (English champion, 1938, five times world champion), decisively beat the New Zealand team before a (large crowd of table tennis enthusiasts at the Auckland Town Hall. Exceptional speed characterised all the matches, while the ability of the visitors to retrieve almost impossible shots was remarkable. Examples of showmanship by Barna and Beliak pleased the onlookers, and they clapped heartily whenever some skilful trick was performed. Although outclassed in most phases of the game, New Zealand fully extended their redoubtable opponents, and kept them on their toes all through the tournament. A noticeable item was the attire of the players. Both Hungarians wore red shorts, while the New Zealanders, with typical patriotism, displayed all black shirts with a fern leaf attached to the pocket. Results of the games were as follows: — L. Beliak beat M. Gosling, 21—16, 21—11, 21—10; V B.arna beat K. Cantlay (N.Z. champion), 21—6, 21—12, 21—11; V. Barna and Beliak beat K. Cantlay and H. Boys (N.Z. champions), 21—12, 21—9, 21—14; L. Beliak beat K. Cantlay, 21—17, 21—15, 21—16; V. Barna beat M. Gosling, 21—8,229,1 —9, 21 —16; V. Barna beat L. Beliak, 21 —18, 21—19, 19—21, 23—21. Included among 18 candidates who have been selected for direct entry into the Royal Air Force, and who are to sail from New Zealand on August 25, is Mr D. S. Johnston, of North- ' land.