AUCKLAND TEAM

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23082, 6 July 1938, Page 22

AUCKLAND TEAM

UNBEATEN RECORD SUCCESS OVER TARANAKI SATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE FINE DISPLAY BY FORWARDS The Auckland Rugby representatives maintained their unbeaten record when they defeated Taranaki at Eden Park last Saturday afternoon. Considering tho last-minuto alterations, tho Auckland team's performance can bo regarded as quite satisfactory, more especially when one takes into account the fact that additional tries were missed by the narrowest of margins. The most pleasing feature of the match was the very fine display given by tho Auckland forwards. They were opposed to a solid pack and they appeared to realise this, as every man did his full share, with the result that the Aucklanders came out on top. They lasted the game right through—in fact the majority of tlieni wore playing just as strongly at the finish as at the start. Had Coone.v been in his best form Auckland's score would have been much larger. Tho halfback's fumbling hampered the play of the whole lino on several occasions. The display given by the threequarter line demonstrated that there is a good deal of difference between Auckland's best line and the next three. At the same time it must be stated, in fairness to tho trio who took the field on Saturday, that they were called upon at very short notice. There will bo a good deal of speculation as to which players will fill the places of Dick, on the right wing, and Carson, in the second row of tho scrum. The latter vacancy should not cause tho selector a great deal of worry, as he has Webb and Lockington to call upon, in addition to some useful forwards in the second fifteen.

The filling of Dick's position is more of a problem. There are three right wingers offering, Flett, of Grammar, Byerlev, of Technical, and Grant, of Ponsonby. All have been showing good form in club matches this season. Bverley has not been seen on the Eden Park oval, owing to his having plaved in the second division in the first round. He is reported to be playing better than ever, and; providing he gives a solid display against. Ponsonby next Saturday, he will enhance his chances. Grant has frequently caught the eye for all-round pfay, and, if his turn does not come this year, he appears to have a particularly bright future ahead of him. No winger has shown more promise.