ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20203, 13 March 1929, Page 17

ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL.

PAST YEAR !N AUCKLAND. A further increase in the number of teams is again shown in the annual report of the Auckland Football Association, there being 140 teams in the varius competitions last year, against 130 in the previous season. The continued increase in the number of players shows the code is steadily gaining in popularity. Mention is made of the ground shortage, which entailed increased travelling. The withdrawal <if the 'Hustle Club in not. further commented on, the management, tendering thanks to Dr. Neil McDougai! t'.iid his associates on tlie business men s committee which had found an amicable settlement of the dispute. Owing to a decline in gate takings the financial position is not altogether satisfactory. Confidence is expressed in a complete recovery during the coming season,, which promises to be a record one. The insurance schemo which was inaugurated last season proved of great benefit to players, and relief wns given in many cases wneie ratner serious accidents occurred. Thanks are tendered to Mr. P. Neesham, sole selector, for his work in connection wi'.h the Auckland representative team, . quality of which was reflected in the s. attained in the English Foot tall Asso trophy competition. . The success ~ various local competitions and the C ' Cup fixtures, and the victory °. lend primary schoolboys Tepire^^ril_ - j - n '_ in the North Tfd*nd primary sc..hools ', went held at ITnntly, are inpon. The judical committeo TS O.ompU mented cn its efficient handling of case, against players for breaches of ru