ALL BLACKS IN SYDNEY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18756, 9 July 1924, Page 11

ALL BLACKS IN SYDNEY.

MATCH WITH METROPOLITAN

TEAMS CHOSEN FOR TO-DAY.

Australian and N.Z. Cable Association. (Reed. 9.55 p.m.) SYDNEY, July 8.

The following is the All Black team which has been selected to play Metropolitan to-morrow:—-Nepia, Lucas, Svenson, Hart, McGregor. Nicholls, Dalley, Irvine, McCleary, Masters, Brownlie (2), Cupples, White and Porter. The Metropolitan team will be completely different to Saturday's team. It is regarded as a fast, weighty combination. It comprises the following:— Whipp, C. Walker, G. Walker, Morrissey, Foote, Athon, Georgeson, Elliot, Douglass', Twohig, Taylor, Holdsworth, Erly, Raysmith and Thompson.

Writing to the press, Mr. Ernest Booth, of New Zealand, an ex-footballer, says— "The All Blacks' defeat must have given New Zealand such a shock as she has rarely experienced. The defeat of the team in Sydney was never expected. It was not even thought feasible. But, though totally unexpected, it is likely to be good, wholesome medicine, even if nauseous in the taking. It will steady this young team for the rest of the tour."

Mr. Booth describes the play of the sJew South Wales team as superb and the whole game as a wonderful exposition. He adds: "It was plain to any qualified judge that the All Blacks are much better than the present circumstances suggest. They possess all . the attributes of great performers. With judicious coalching they will worthily, uphold the great reputation of the previous All Blacks and Wallaby teams."

Richardson''sustained a damaged ankle and Badeley a bruised leg in Saturday's match. Though not serious these mishaps may- possibly prevent them from playing in any further matches in Australia.

CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE.

"TEAM PLAYED FINELY."

The following congratulatory cablegram from the president of the New South Wales Rugby Union, Sir Henry Braddon, was received yesterday by the president of the Auckland Rugby Union. Mr. H. Frost; —"There was a splendid game and attendance at Saturday's match. Your representatives played finely and will play still better as their combination is perfected. The Rugby Union here has definitely come into its own, thanks largely to the admirable sportsmanship, friendship, and consideration of your union."