OUR BRITISH GUESTS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20620, 19 July 1930, Page 10

OUR BRITISH GUESTS.

A very cordial welcome awaits the British football team as it makes to-day its first public appearance on a playing field in Auckland. To the whole touring party a greeting of goodwill is to be accorded with the utmost heartiness, for it is remembered that a journey right across the world has been taken in tho interests of a game originating in Britain and coming thence to this outmost Dominion. Rugby football lias become so thoroughly acclimatised in these islands that redoubtable exponents of it cannot be treated as visitors merely, but rather as honoured guests. To the whole party, consequently, tho friendliest of welcomes is due and will be given. But to the playing fifteen to-day, as it takes tho field against tho representatives of this province, there will be extended a particularly warm greeting. A compliment has been paid to Auckland in the choice of the British side, which ia almost of test-match calibre, and a realisation of this enhances appreciation of our guests' first appearance here. It would savour of mock modesty to suggest that the compliment is not fully deserved. The standard of Rugby in this piovinco is high. In the history of similar visits, recalled inevitably today, there are recorded very notable victories for Auckland. But of the prospects to-day there is more than the usual risk attaching to prophecy. All that can be said in anticipation is that our representatives will be opposed by a team able to stand comparison with any sent so far from the Homeland to try conclusions with New Zealanders. A hard game, and one with probability of brilliance in tactics, is assured, and whatever the outcome there should be a memorable display of Rugby. This in itself, in so far as our players contribute to it, will be accounted bv our guests as the sort of welcome to be most appreciated. For the rest, the whole party will, it is confidently hoped, enjoy thoroughly the time spent in the district, and eventually take away tho happiest of recollections. Among the bonds of Empire, sport has already proved one of considerable value, and a tour of Rugby players is calculated to promote national fellowship. Win or lose, so long as the game for the game's sake be well played and this fellowship lie fostered, the coming of this team should mean for it and Auckland a pleasant experience and memory.