RUGBY FOOTBALL

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23417, 5 August 1939, Page 9

RUGBY FOOTBALL

THE GALLA.IIER SHIELD FINAL SERIES TO-DAY CHAMPIONSHIP IN DOUBT THREE "IMPORTANT FIXTURES 1 Fast and interesting play should bo witnessed in the final series of matches in the' Auckland Rugby Union's senior competition for the Gallagher Shield this afternoon, when three important games will lie decided. The closeness of the competition is indicated by the fact that three teams —Marist, Otahuliu and Suburbs —each has prospects of annexing the trophy. The chief attraction at Eden Park will lie the meeting of Maris! and North Shore. Much will depend on the result of this match, as a win for Marist will assure the side of the championship, while success for North Shore, provided that Ofnhiihu defeats Grammar, will deprive Marist of the championship. After its win over Suburbs two weeks ago North Shore can he expected to give Marist a hard game. Marist has not shown lately the consistent form it displayed in the. first round, but the team will be out for a win to-day. An even contest is ' expected. . The curtain-raiser on the Eden lark'ova will be between Grafton and the promoted Suburbs fifteen. Should Suburbs win Marist lose and Otah-uhu draw, these three teams will be etiual in the lead. This occurrence would give Suburbs another opportunity of annexing the trophy. Suburbs can therefore be expected to give a fine exhibition. Grafton has a particularly fine set of backs and, if at full strength, the side's prospects will be good. Otahuhu will meet Grammar at Slurges Park. Otahuhu gave a fine display to defeat Ponsonby in the last series of games, and a repetition of that form almost assures the team of victory. A match that will have- no bearing on Ihe result of the championship will be played on No, 'J ground at Eden Park between Ponsonby and Training College. Ponsonby may have difficulty in paining the decision,