All Blacks Final Work-Out Before Test

Northern Advocate, 14 July 1949, Page 7

All Blacks Final Work-Out Before Test

(From Claude King) CAPETOWN, Wed. (11.30 a.m.).— The All Blacks today had their final work-out for the first test against the Springboks. The procedure was as in the previous two days, with intense scrummaging, rucking, feeding back and taking the ball through in line-outs, and passing movements by the backs. . Fred Allen did not take the field today. He received a knock on a knee yesterdayThe injury does not appear to be serious, however, but m his absence Gudsell worked out with the test backs,

Scott today had seven shots at goal from almost identical positions as in the Eastern Transvaal match, in which he missed seven kicks. Heavy dew on the ground made the ball heavy.

“They are playing on their favourite. South African ground. “Thirteen of them have played together for three matches in succession and.to indicate their confidence, one of the players said to me: 'This is one test we can win.' KICKING MAT DECIDE IT Wintle says the scrummaging has improved out of all knowledge. “Kicking, of course, may decide the issue, and it looks to me as though Scott is back to form,’’ he said. “This is vital, as the Springboks have several very fine goal-kickers in their side."

He converted three kicks. Another three were right on the line, but fell short, and-the.seventh grazed the outside of the posts. It was a satisfactory work-out. Over the past few weeks Scott has received letters giving well-meant advice on how to kick goals, but he is content with a few words spoken to him after the Eastern Transvaal match by Gerry Brand, who said: “It happens to everyone. Bob. You'll find you will come back to form just as casilv as you lost it." WEATHER PROSPECTS

The test teams for Saturday met today al the Milnerton Turf Club's meeting, where the All Blacks and Springboks were guests. The assembly of the Springboks was only completed today, and their plans are for a team talk tonight and runs on Thursday and Friday. Dannie Craven told me; “I have the fullest confidence in our side, and we are looking forward to the game with optimism. “Our final practices will be light work-outs, as the majority of the players have been in action together at. trials or in provincial matches."

Following cold, showery conditions during Sunday and Monday, the weather cleared in Cape Province and was fine and sunny today. The forecast is for a steady barometer.

The game will start at 3.30 p.m, on Saturday, which is equivalent to 1.30 a.m. New Zealand time.

Speculation on the result of the game continues throughout South Africa. J. W. ("Bo") Wintle. South African manager for the AH Blacks, in an interview, said: "I give New Zealand better than an even-money chance. "They have many things in their favour.

"Their tails are up after their win last Saturday.