CURTAIN-RAISERS

New Zealand Times, Volume LIII, Issue 12538, 30 August 1926, Page 10

CURTAIN-RAISERS

MANAWATU BEAT WELLINGTON VICTORY FOR rONEKE. The curtain-raiser for fhe principal fixture at Athletic Park on Saturday was provided by a willing encounter between the Manawatu third grade representatives and a Wellington fourth grade

team, victory going to the former to the tune of 11 points to 5. The visitors opened their account early in the first spell, AVaugh going across for a good try, which was unconverted. On several occasions Wellington came close to equalising, but were unable to make any impression on the defence before half-time. Wellington commenced the second spell well Cutbusb brilliantly intercepted a pass, and after a dashing run, outstripped the opposition and scored under the posts. Potts added the major points. Wellington 5, Manawatu 3. The visitors replied with a strong forward attack, and B. Holden, scored a try., which was converted by Dawick. Manawatu 8, Wellington 5. Wellington made several promising attacks toward the end, but the movements lacked finish. Before the game concluded, Holden went over again for the visitors, and the final scores read: Manawatu 11, Wellington 5. • PONEKE BEAT TAITA Poneke and Taita thirds met on Athletic Park in an evenly contested match, and, together with the other lower grade game, kept the spectators interested. Poneke scored shortly after the commencement, but in trfie second spell neither side was able to score. Taila generally held the upper hand, but lacked the necessary finish Poneke left the field the- victors bv the narrow margin of three points.