FOOTBALL GOSSIP.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XII, Issue 4302, 27 August 1875, Page 2

FOOTBALL GOSSIP.

[BY "NATIVE."] Tiie second match this season between Auckland and Grafton, came off last Saturday, on. the ground of the former, and ended, like the last, in a draw. A strong westerly breeze was blowing all day, so that the side kicking towards the eastern goal had not only the wind with them, but also downhill work, which was an immense advantage. When Auckland won the toss and declared to kick with the wind, it was thought by the knowing ones that it would be all up with Grafton, but not so, for the youngsters played remarkably well, and held their own gamely. A very heavy shower of raia came down during the first half and spoilt the ground (previously in fine order) for the remainder of the day. Hedley .managed to get a touch-down for Auckland, but it was not improved on, and so ended the first balfhour. Grafton, in kicking down-hill, maile much better work of it than their opponents, and deserve great credit for their plucky play. The only advantage worth speaking of was got by the Auckland just about the finish of the game, when they were edging up, namely, a touch-down by Ellis, which was well tried at by Woon, but fell about a couple of feet short of the goal posts. Beale, Snodgrass. Whewell, and Green distinguished themselves for Grafton. lam greatly pleased to see this young club shewing up so well ; if they only stick together, next year will see them something not to be sneered at. Auckland, barring Hedley, Whitaker, and Ellis, played most vilely; it seemed to be an off-day with them ; in fact, it was a repetition of the bad play shewn by them in the Ponsonby match. They must not take things too easily, or one of those days they will most certainly _Ve caught on the hop, and find it out when tU too late. Both Uraiton and Auckland are desirous of having another match t as each is anxious to be beaten (?), so that, no doubt, a game -will be arranged. The Paruell aad Ponsonby had a match in the Domain, bat this also ended in a draw. The former play the North Shore, and the latter try the Grafton to-morrow. Ad meeting of those taking an interest in the sending of a team to play the Southern pro vinces, it wa3 decided that the Aucklanders leave Manukau on the 14th pros. Subscriptions are being collected slowly but s" re v'; so that no doubt the required amount will be raised in due time. Several men are expected from the Thames and VTaikato, and when replies are received from them the committee will then finally select the teani; as it stands at present, it is subject to alterations. I would suggest to those who are going to play, to get all the practice they can before leaving, a3 from all accounts they will meet with some tough customers ere returning. ■