RUGGER TACTICS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXII, 24 November 1938, Page 16

RUGGER TACTICS

THE SPIRIT OF THE GAME [By Air Mail—Own Correspondent! LONDON, 20th October. A recent encyclical by the President of the English Rugby Union, calling attention to deliberately unfair tactics which are ruining the spirit of the game, has been warmly debated behind the scenes by players and club officials. When Cambridge made their London debut last week-end at Twickenham against the Harlequins, Mr W. W. Wakefield, M.P., who held the whistle, penalised the Light Blues four times in fifteen minutes right in front of their own goal for not scrumming properly. Chapman, the Harlequin skipper, was unlucky to convert only three of the free kicks. This drastic action by “Wakers” was nobly vindicated. From being down by 13 points to nil at half time, Cambridge by genuine open rugger made the score 15-13 in their own favour, and were cheered to the echo for a gallant and thrilling display by supporters of both teams. The Harlequins just managed, at the last minute, to snatch a try, and victory by 16-15. OUTSTANDING PLAYERS If the Cambridge pack can settle down to sterling honest work, their backs look good enough to beat almost anybody. Downes, who was not too happy as full back in last year’s Varsity match, is in great form as a centre this season, and in Forrest, the Scottish international, Cambridge have one of the most brilliant and forceful straight running centres available in the four countries. But, to get full value for their strong attacking back division, Cambridge must concentrate forward on sound play. Last season good judges picked out T. R. Parry, in their pack, as one of the most impressive and fastest forwards in the game. He did not play against Oxford, but, judging by his play against the Harlequins, and the lightning pace at which he scored a gorgeous under-the-posts try, he should be safe for his blue this season. Presumably he will be claimed internationally by Wales.