THE LEAGUE CODE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVIII, Issue 23962, 12 May 1941, Page 4

THE LEAGUE CODE

SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP ONLY ONE MATCH PLAYED RICHMOND DEFEATS MAR IST The senior grade championship of the Auckland Rugby League was confined to one game on Saturday afternoon, and a large crowd witnessed Richmond comfortably defeat Marist at C-'arlaw Park. The Richmond backs gave a good exhibition and their combination proved too much for the opposition. Bright passing bouts were a feature of the game and in this respect the Marist backs were outclassed. The Richmond forwards gave excellent support in the loose and their handling was very sure. Most of Richmond's tries came from good team work, and A. J. •Sayers, on the wing, scored four times as the result of good combination by the inside backs. A lot of latitude was allowed Richmond in respect to the-play-the-ball rule. Instead of only one player standing behind the man playing the ball, there were often three and four halfbacks and by starting passing bouts tlt us the opposition was placed at a disadvantage. The Marist forwards did well in the loose, but were beaten in a majority of the set scrums. The score of 27 points to 5 was a good indication of Richmond's superiority. Using his speed to advantage, Sayers proved an acquisition to Richmond. Webb, halfback, and Graham, first five-eighths, showed perfect understanding, while Ti 11 let on. at centre, ran straight and was responsible for Sayers' success on the wing. Donovan, Smith and Glover were the best Marist backs. Among the Richmond forwards, Mitchell. Davis and Broad head were most prominent, while in the Marist pack Barcliard was outstanding, with Anderson and McLeod giving good support. For Richmond tries were scored by Sayers (I. Graham i2). and Webb. Webb converted two tries, and kirkeil a penalty goal. For Marist, Dickson scored a try, and Anderson kicked a penalty goal. Mr. O. Chalmers was referee. In a practice game. Newton defeated City by 10 points to 15. Both teams fielded men from other clubs, and (he play was interesting throughout. PLAY IN THE SOUTH Christohurch.—Addington. 30, Woolstnn. 5; Sydenham, It, Ricearton, ,'i; Raknia-Hornby, 20, Limvood, 10.