COMMENTS ON THE GAME.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIII, Issue 19383, 19 July 1926, Page 9

COMMENTS ON THE GAME.

BRILLIANT PLAY SEEN. ALL BLACKS DESERVE WIN. IMPROVEMENT IN FORM. By Telegraph—Press Association —Copyright. (Received 5.5 p.m.) A. and N.Z. SYDNEY, July 18. New Zealand's victory over New South Wales by 11 points to 6 fittingly represents the run of play. Almost the only lapse in their defence cost New South Wales the game. It was a most dramatic finish to a wonderful game. The second half was exceptionally brilliant, spectacular and fast. The game surpassed the first test in many features, notably in the defensive measures of both sides. The display by Ross, at fullback, was again brilliant. The All Blacks showed a general improvement in pace, stamina, determination and finesse, all the inside backs operating freely and passing in the hest fashion. The All Blacks' forwards gained most of the ball in the scrums and line-outs. In the latter department Finlayson was repeatedly prominent in sending Mills and his supporting backs away. The forwards adopted solid pushing and shock tactics in the scrums, using their superiority in weight in a most pronounced manner and "screwing" effectively. They participated in several dribbling rushes which gained much ground. The visitors displayed greater versatility and resource in attack, although several passing movements gained little ground. The All Blacks were penalised 18 times and New South Wales 10. Obstruction was common. Porter on his play yesterday was irreproachable. Porter and Mill were the best of the New Zealanders, although Elvy and Svenson were brilliant. Nicholls was prominent in defence. Stevenson made several recoveries, showing improved fielding but faulty kicking. In the forwards it was difficult to individualise. All performed honestly, being especially good in the ruck.