FAST DISPLAY

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21883, 20 August 1934, Page 14

FAST DISPLAY

THISTLE'S FIRST DEFEAT A great impetus was given to the code in the St. Heliers Bay district by the transfer of the Thistle-Eastern Suburbs game from Blandford Park. From the outset it •was apparent that the game would be a strenuous one. A fast pace was set and increased as the game progressed. Hard knocks were given and taken, and a spectacular match, in which both defences were tested, resulted. A feature of the game was the continunl comment indulged in by both sides, which culminated in Thistle losing the services of two players. Hoyte, although of short stature,_ gained the honours of the goalkeepers' position, and Eastern Suburbs was saved more than one goal by his safe hands. Gay and R. Stone •were rock-like in defence ar;d the latter used his weight to advantage. The halfback line, Diamond, Ward and Flashman, was clever and thrustful, and kept the game open. Darsvin was in the van, at the Suburbs attacks, and with Welch and East, on his right, swinging the ball across to Mullane and Barry, the Thistle defence had an anxious time. Gerrard was fairly safe, and he had the close assistance of McCosh. who was easily the best back on the field, both on defence' and in initiating attacks. Williams gave valuable assistance, but some of his clc-arances under pressure were very dangerous. Watson had most, of the halfback work, and his play was good, while Wright and McLean were not lacking in initiative. The usual tricky play of the front line was at a discount with the bustling opposition. Dunsmore tfas the pick of the line and he and Woods combined well, but their crosses did not always get the support they warranted. Although Wiseman returned som<» good centres. Williamson was too well marked to take advantage of them. On the run of the game a draw would have been it good indication of the merits of the teams. Darwin and Welch scored for Eastern Suburbs, while Woods netted for Thistle. Mr. E. F. Miller was referee.