BACKS' BRIGHT DISPLAY

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22167, 22 July 1935, Page 13

BACKS' BRIGHT DISPLAY

FACTOR IN GRAFTON'S WIN

Credit for Grafton's clear-cut victory over Ponsonby must go to a fast, dangerous back line, which functioned smoothly and cleverly.. The Grafton forwards worked willingly from the commencement, toiling tireleeslj to give their rearguard a substantial supply of the ball. On the other hund, the Ponsonby vanguard played indifferently, ttving -the }) ( , o ker no chance of securing consistent possession, the scrum lacking the •sjential weight. Taking full advantage of a steady breeze compiled 11 ipoinl.s in the first ■Pell, a comfortable lend, Ponsonby having been unable to open its account. The J*eond; spell v.as also decidedly in Graftons favour. Although the Ponsonby forwards broke through occasionally they were "Capable' of sustained attack, and were immediately forced back into their own territory. Generally the entire Ponsonby complayed carelessly, being deceived too many "dummies" und revealing a It i? cy *° tackle weakly. When Neale, Grafton first five-eighths, secured his second try, he encountered little difficulty ® brushing aside three high' tackles for *• clear run over. Feelings ran slightly high Jo»ard_ the closing stages, vhen the referee vnce interrupted the game to issue warnfcfjg.' far late tackling and indiscriminate

The Grafton rearguard proved a happy combination, taking advantage ot uncertain tackling to give a first-class exhibition. Killeen was outstanding in the first spoil, making several clever openings nnd scoring a fine solo try. Neale also played well. Quick to seize an opening, he several times w(.'lived his way through a bewildered defence. His fine attacking play was largely due to the perfect passes lie received from his halfback, Inglis, who gave a bright allround display. Stuart, at centre, made some splendid, openings for his wings, while his defensive play was most consistent. Dick and C'uiTey always travelled at top. the lastnamed receiving the better opportunities and scoring a particularly good try by sheer speed and determination. Paton was called upon tc do little solid work, and his handling anil kicking were always accurate. Conspicuous among a willing pack were Bunting and Roddick, both of whom were rewarded with a try. The Ponsonby pack lacked honest weight in the !tight, and energetic following in the loose. Knight and Bond broke away occasionally and worked conscientiously. The backs handled well, but ran across field, their movements gaining little ground. Under pressure they passed in their own twenty-Eve. a fault which gave Grafton two tries, through prompt smothering. The one back to show initiative was Frankham, at the base of the scrum, but he was invariably unsupported. Tries for Grafton were secured by Roddick. Killeen. Currey, Inglis, Neale (2), while Neale kicked a penalty goal and converted a try, and Paton also converted a try. Far Ponsonby Gooch and Ramsay scored, Jamieson converting one try and kicking a penalty goal. Mr. G Peace was referee.