FOOTBALL.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 13940, 27 June 1907, Page 5

FOOTBALL.

RUGBY. Bt Full Btcz. NEW ZEALAND TEAII IN AUSTRALIA. July IS, t. New South W»lei, at Sydney. July 17, t. Now South Wales, at Sydney. . July 20, v. A\uti»li», at Sydney. July 21, v. QuoamUud, ct Briibini. July 27, t. Quooniland, &t Brisbane. Auguit !. r. Auetrilia, it Brisbane. ■ Auguot ft, v. Australia, at Sydney.

It is anticipated that Scannell, the University full back, who was injured in the match against Union, will havo recovered sufficiently to bo able fo play against Southorn on Saturday next. Harrison, on the other hand, may be unablo to play again this season. Wanted a goal Icicjccr. With Adams and Harrison out of the 'Varsity team the Blues are sadly in need of someone with qualifications for goal-kicking. Against Canterbury Collego 'Varsity failed to kick a single goal out of eight attempt?. The Otago members of the New Zealand team for Australia leave Dunedin on Wednesday next for Wellington, where they arc duo on July 4. The full team depart from Wellington on Saturday, July 6. Southern is suffering from an excess of goal-potting. Carried away by recent successes, there is a tendency amongst the Black-and-whites to overdo the flying kick from the field. In order that Southern may meet the University before being weakened by tho absence of two of her players in Australia the Flag Committee hav<> arranged for tho -Black-and-whites to-play them on Saturday next. Ths members of the New Zealand team when on tour in Australia are to receive 3s per day, "out-of-pocket" expenses. This item from a Sydney paper will interest at least one member of the New Zealand team: "Paton and Cunningham are the lock men. The former will bo easily noticcd by the crowd, for he is tall and red-headed!" 'Varsity appear to be experimenting with their back division. O'Kane was again asked to stand down against Union, and Wi Jtapa was played 111 the flying brigade behind the serum. It was generally anticipated that 'Varsity would run up a respectable score against Union on Saturday, and not- a few prognosticated the record score of the season. Against any opposition tho Royal Blues can be relied upon to put up an interesting game, but when the opposition is weak Varsity throw the hall about with delightful abandon, and something approaeliin» recklessness. B G, Thomson, llie ex-University captain, who has retired from the game, was prevailed upon tq turn out on Saturday against Union in place of Harrison when that player was injured. By the departure of tho New Zealand team for Australia next month Southern will be weakened by tho absence of ~£ckA?»n Ca£cy, Kaikorai bv Booth and Al Donald, Alhambra by Johnston, and Dunedin by Paton. One of the best forwards in the Kaikorai team is Pv. Johnston, a brother of W. Johnston, of AU Black" fame. Hta has been improving rapidly of late. It is reported that tho Star Club, of Invorcargill, is losing the services of P. Hurley, the half back, who purposes taking up 111s residence in this city. J™' 11 market! iwreistency there follows j - ™ l( k their peregrinations during iMa;; matches a "barracker" with a raucous voice and a lung power that is (piito.i extraordinary, trom the commencement of tho game to the call of time this individual urges on his team to victory with a vigour of speech and exnortation t licit is worthy of & better c&usc. As a barracker he stands alone in more senses than ono—in one sense that there is no one who does or can barrack like him, and in another that no one with any respect for his nerves or ear-drums will stand alongside him once he has set his harsh vocal chords in motion. This youth was in full cvidenco at tho Zingari-Port match on Saturday, and from the outset made himself obnoxious to these who were unfortunate enough to be iu proximity to him. The fleetness of the 'Varsity backs was rover better exemplified than in the match against Union on Saturday. The Royal Blues simply ran tho opposition breathless, and gavo such an exhibition of passing and a? pistol $£ spectatpra*

Though tho game was exceedingly open and the paco very fast tho passing of the 'Varsity backs was not always well timed, and tho liberties taken with tho ball oould not havo been ventured upon against a stronger team. Although the demands made on Seannell wero not great, ho played very soundly until tho unfortunato incident which necessitated his retirement. Nuku was tried on the wing of the three-quarter line, his placo at five-eighth being taken by Wi Rcpa. The To Auto lad again demonstrated his fleetness of foot, and was alwaj'6 dangerous when ho had anything lite a clear run. Ho mado several fine dashes for the line, and would havo had at least one more try to his credit but for losing his footing when a scoro appeared imminent. Gilray, in tho centre, appears to havo adapted himself to his now position, and in Saturday's game was thoroughly reliable. Ho oxce's in all departments of the gamo, and is ono of the moet consistent players in Duncdin. Macpherson is showing marked improve, ment in his play, and appears to be coming back to his best form. The ball came out to Macphorson's wing less frequently than to Nuku, but ho made the most of his opportunities, and ran with great dash, proving a difficult man to 6top when in possession. Lomas and Wi Eepa wero the five-eighths. Tho former played his usual vigorous game on attack, and took difficult passes with accuracy. Wi Repa's potted goal was neatly executed, but otherwise his play was somewhat erratic, and he was sadly out of form in place-kicking. Immediately behind the scrum Dansey was tho rcckot amongst tho 'Varsity backs, and his meteoric dashes were the delight of the spectators. Dansey is animation personified, and is as olusivo as a shadow. Tho 'Varsity forwards playcdiwoll in the loose, and took a hand in some of the passing rushes during tho day. Harrison, who met with an injury to his hand, retired in tho first spell, and his services as a goalkicker wero missed. Of a fast lot of forwards, Tansey, A. Thomson, Foole, and Lang were conspicuous. The Union full hack had a serious afternoon's work, but he extricated himself from several awkward situations with not a little credit to himself and his side. Tho Union three-quarter lino suffered 'ov comparison with tho opposition, and had few opportunities for attack. Tho tackling was fair, but 'Varsity made tho paco so strong that, tho Maroons frequently failed to get within striking distance. Don and M'Lcnnan were conspicuous at times for seed play, and strove hard to avert disaster. Tho five-eighths did not show up to any great, advantage, and were frequently in trouble owing to tho speed cf the Royal Blues. Tho Maroon forwards aro noted for the fast, open gamo they play, and Saturday's exhibition was no exception. They received the ball on many occasions, but tho swiftness of tho 'Varsity pack crushed the attack at the outset, Manley and Thomson wero prominent in several forward rushes, and wero in tho thick of tho play throughout. There was nothing thrilling about tho play in the contest for Rugby supremacy between Duncdin and Southern on Saturday, and in this rcapect was in marked contrast to tho previous match in which Southern woro engaged. Tho spectacular side of Ihe gamo was lacking, for tho passing of both teams, but particularly that of Duncdin, was deplorable. Tho contest was chiefly confined to tho forwards, who. on the whole, gave a good exposition of tho game. At full back for Southern Kindley played his usual safe game. Ho fielded tho ball with great certainty, and mado good use of the louchline. Kindley is one of the cleverest players in the Southern team. The Southern backs gave one or two glimpses of passing, but the efforts 011 tho whole were weak, and tho ball only on raro occasions reached the wings of the threequarter line. Tho tackling, of tho Southern vanguard was certain, and the rush-stop-ping sound. Goldsmith, the ex-Christchurch player, showed greatly improved form over previous efforts, and impressed one that if taken in hand he would develop into a tolerably useful member of Rugby society. On Saturday Goldsmith was looking for work, and on the few occasions the ball was passed out to him ho made good' use of the opportunity. Harloy, in the centre, was not prominent for anything special. This player has not developed any originality, in his style, and ono would liko to sec him attempt something that would be more effective than the across-tho-field pass and the monotonous kick to the line. Bonnet was weak 011 tho wing, and rarely ever attempted to get into the pln,y. 110 is gifted with pace, but his other qualifications are such as to prevent him be:ntr a first-class three-quarter back, The real strength of the Southern back division lies in its five-eighths, and in Saturday's contest Chambers and ]£ekhold again bore the brunt of attack and defence. Last week Chambers was highly commended for resolute tackling, and though not so prominent in this direction against Duncdin, nevertheless did effective work, Chambers is the most improved player in tho Southern team. Eokhold was again tho übiquitous player he has so often proved himself fo be this season. He was all over the field doing two men's work, and receiving the "attention" that should have been tho portion of that number. Eokhold is not a brilliant player, but. he is unusually sound, and rarely makes a mistake. It is not expccted that they will throw bouquets at him in Australia. "Little Gulliver." as Fullavton. U'e Southern scrum half, is popularly called, was less prominent than usual. Ho got few chances to get the Inll away, but th<}se that came his way he made good use of. The bustling Duncdin forwards gavo tho Southern serum half few moments for reflection. Tho Southern vanguard played with rare dash, and for the most part kept closely ail the ball, hut on occasions an impetuous forward, with more energy than judgment, would kick too hard, with the result that the ball cither went over the line or into tho hands of the enemy. Edwards, Casey, and Sheehan wero prominent for good play throughout a strenuous game. Eckhold, the Southern five-eighth, has gifts above tho average as a player, but the passing of a ball is not ono of theso. At present, ho hesitates before making the transfer, frequently with tho result that tho opportunity is lost before the pass is given. Eckhold should cultivate the art of a quick transfer. In the first spell of tho match against Southern there was a slight alteration in tho disposition of the Duncdin backs, which did not make for any improvement in the play cf the Dark Blues, Clarko who usually occupies the position of half, was placed on the wing of the three-quarter line, Morrison going up behind the scrum. In the second spell tho positions were reversed, but tho chango brought about 110 bettor results. Dunedin will probably now (idhct'o to tho old formation of llto back division, unless they care io try Clarko at five-eighths. Stalker, the Dunedin full back, did not impress one with any great- sense of security. He was fairly safe, but his kicking was weak, and his general play was scarcely up to standard. Tho Dunedin throe-quarter line is by 110 means -a brilliant trio. Their passing on Saturday was crude, and their movements generally bore little evidence of originality. McAllister, 011 the right wing, opened unpromisingly, but improved as the gamo woro on. This player is very weak on dofonco, and 011 several cccasions was seen to attempt to tackle a Southern player round tho ncck. Worger, in the centre, who is physically a fino typo of player, docs not do justice to his appearance. On the strength of his showing 111 a match a few Saturdays ago the writer had hopes of Worger developing into a useful centre three-quarter, but the anticipations have not .vot been realised. Tho Dunedin player has fino defensive powers, his tackling being clean and resolute, but his attSck is weak, and lacks anything approaching resourcefulness. Clarko, on the left wing, had little to do in the first spell, and in the second half was played behind the scrum, but ho did not show up to any special advantage. Churchill and O'Sullivan were the fiveeightlts. Tho former played with a great deal cf dash, and on ono or two occasions mado good openings for his fellow backs which, however, were not mado use of. Churchill is a strenuous tackier, and goes for a man hard and low. O'Sullivan started promisingly, but he had but a poor idea of opening up the game; his attempts in this direction showed 110 originality, while his passing was indifferent. and not infrequently ill-timed. TIIO Dunedin forwards havo been' generally regarded as the best pack in town, and they lost little of their reputation by Saturday's game. Tho Dark Blues played very solidly, keeping closely on tho ball, and giving tho opposition little quartor. They wero quick to. get on to tho opposing backs, whilst' their tackling was very sound. On the line-out tho play of the Duncdin forwards is capablo of some improvement. Tho best forward on tho ground in Saturday's enewftter w;ts jvho iyas

in tlto forefront of tho gamo throughout, and 6et un excellent example to his "men. Another forward who 6tood out for good work was Ivemay, wliilo Paton and Criep also played well. Tho ground at Fort Chalmers, where tho Port and Zingari tried conclusions, was in a dcplorablo condition, and within a fow minutes after starting players were almost unrecognisable as the result of their being coated thickly in mud from head to foot. Notwithstanding the shocking state of the ground, tho Port-Ziagari match wa6 ono full of inojdent, and Was always fast. At times back play, a department of tho game conditions woro all against, was indulged in by both sides, and with a fair amount of success from a spectator's point of viow. The Port team was regarded by supporters and all connected' with it as tho strongest tho Greon-and-whitca havo yet put into tho field, and tho issuo of the game fully justified such an opinion. Port Chalmers, with two successivo wins against such formidable combinations as Dunedin and Zingari-Kichmond, and tho displays of Rugby given on thcee two occasions, has justified its inclusion among tho better teams now aspiring for First Grade flag honours. Should the Port team eontinuo to improvo as it has done it will becomo one of the hardest nuts to crack in tho Senior competition. Tho Port forwards played with a raro dash, and gave evidence' of very sound training. Tho wholo of tho front division played a strenuous game, and were superior to their opponents in all departments except on tho line-out. Perry again stood out prominently in tho Port vanguard, and was always on tho ball. Ho is, however, prone to impart rather too muoh vigour into his tackling. Ovcr-oagerncsa on Saturday occasionally led to his being penalised for off-sido play. Carson was again to be found in his place at full bacic after a short, rest. His kicking was again powerful, but ho wao very often slow in getting. in a return. Sometimes ho didn't get in one at all, and then thoro was trouble. Tho threc-quartor lino was a very eolid one. Kelly played with his usual soundness, and frequently extricated his side from dangerous corners, Ho was, howover, occasionally out of bis placo, but never caused hie side any great anxiety. Sluttery played his host game this season, and appears to very much better advantago at centre than ho did 011 tho wing. Onco or twice tho cx-Alhambra player mado openings that quite aroused the enthusiasm of the spectators. G. Dougherty was responsible for somo very judicious linekicking, and was conspicuous for fast following up. Tho two five-eighths, W. Dougherty and Graham, did excellent work. Doughorty was everywhere, and frequently mado openings whero such seemed impossible. In tho 6ccond half of tho game bo was injured, and had to retiro for somo 10 minutes or thereabouts. Ono fault about Dougherty's play is his passing, It is invariably too low, and is not characterised by what could be called alarming celerity. Hart, behind tho scrum, was quito at sea, and appeared to bo altogether unablo to handle tho ball, oven allowing for its greasy state. Frequently when it camo out from behind tho serum ho mulled it, and at other times barely managed to get rid of it beforo the opposing wing forward had' swooped dawn on hitn. The Zingari forwards lacked onergv. and their play was, in the early part of the game, quite lifejess, the work being left to two or three individual members of the team, notably Marett, Patterson, and Low. They certainly mado great efforts to scoro in tho closing stages of tho gamo, but could not got any further than within about 10 yards of the scoring area. They were, however, in imminent danger of scoring on two or threo ooeasions, but their efforts appeared to be pursued by ill-luck, and they were denied a score. The play in its closing stages was over-vigorous. Tho Zingari full back, " Short," had his hands full, Ho never failod to take tho ball, but often failed to get his kick in, and on such occasions he relied upon his strength to force his way out of a tight corner. The pick of tho three-quarter lino W3„ easily Roddington, who played a fino allround game. Graham showed slight Improvement, but M'Laughlin was decidedly weak and erratic. At five-eighths Davidson played a sterling game, and was the best back on tho field. His play was characterised by a dash and certainty that was pretty to watch. His collaring was deadly, but clean, and hs kicking long and judicious. Ho was a continual thorn in the side of the opposing toam. His colleague, Thompson, did not appear to tho greatest advantage, but was nevertheless responsible for good work. Collie, behind the serum, was not a conspicuous success, but. wao playing behind a. beaten pack, and Buttered thorebv. The Piratos-Taieri Rovers match was "a capitnli ono from a spectator's point of now, being full of incidents from start to finish. S, Nicholson's second try was scored after a fine run. The pass given him by Wyinks was not a good onc-in fact, he had to tako it off the ground going at top speed. Nicholson is tho Pirates' scoring back. Ho .should at least gain a plaoo in the trial teams. Jenkins, at full hack, was again in good form. His line-kicking was a featuro of his play. Jardine, behind tho scrum, was seen to much better advantage than on the pfovioua Saturday. Burt was easily tho pick of tho forwards. His line-out play was very good. Kirkcaldy and Scott'also caught tho eye as play■nc a hard game. , Of the Taieri Rovers' backs, G. Soott and B. Watson were soon to best advantage, while among the forwards Milne, and Smeaton played well. Tho passing of tho Taicri backs was never at any timo at all dangerous, and they invariably ran straight across tho field. lho Kaikorai and Allianibra'tried conclusions at Bishopscourt on Saturday beforo a moderate attendance of the public. Both put weak teams into the field, but were nevertheless fairly evenly matched. Tho play was slow and uninteresting during tile first spell, but considerably .improved in tho second half. Tho exhibition given by the backs of both teams was deplorably weak, and they never seemed able to send the ball past the five-eighths or centre. As a result play was mainly confined to the forwards. F. Johnson, who played full back for Kaikorai, was fuirly safe, but could im prove his fielding by taking tho ball in its flight instead of waiting for tho bottneo. Armit had a day off, and played degrees below his usual form. Ussher and Coulter were the best of a poor sot of backs. The dribbling of the former was a marked feature of his play. Coulter, behind tho scrum, played a fine defensive game, but made no attempt to open up the play for tho backs. Of a useful lot of forwards, M'Donald, Johnston, and Adamson woro prominent. The Kaikorai wing forward was unfortunato in not, scoring in tho both spells. The attempts at goal-kicking in tho match between Kaikorai and Alhambra were weak, line player had four shots. On each occasion the ball travelled along tho ground. M'Kenzic, who played 'full back for Alhambra, was sound, but was rather slow in getting to tho ball. He fielded with certainty, and gained a good deal of ground by well-judged line-kicking. The Alhambra three-quarter backs were not much in evidence. Their handling of the. ball was faulty, ami the general run of their play degrees below Senior Grado form. Bonnet, who usually plays a consistent game, had a day off, his fielding being u»ecrtai|i and his passing inaccurate. The Alhambra half back made a good showing. He got the ball away smartlv. and used some intelligence in his transfer!. On several occasions he broke away singlehanded, but w«s indifferently supported. The feature of the play oi the Alhambv was the dribbling of the forwards, their efforts in this direction being above -the average. They kept closely on tho ball, and wero quick to get on to the opposing backs, following up in good style. The pick of tho vanguard were W. Johnston, Harridge, and Watson, who were in the forefront of the rushes throughout. J. Mitchin6on, of tho Now Zealand team, N said to be inferior to no other threequarter back in New Zealand. A Northern Union player's eommcnt: — "Gnllaher said he could get no spin on. Perhaps he couldn't; but ah can make it brc-ak half a yard in five, qnd lots can do better than that.'' Rugger enthusiasts in Auckland are more or less furious that Geoveo Smith, the brilliant thrce-quartor, has l>een boycotted in connection with the Australian tour. Even prominent Auckland P.ugby Union officials are astounded at tho omission of "Smithio's" namo from the team, and are not failing to express their opinion.—Auckland comment. Absolum, tho one-time brilliant threequarter, is this year playing a great game down Wanganui way, and is looked upon as a sure thing for tho reps. It is anticipated that l'\ Glasgow, the All Black, now in Southland, who Ikus been out of the gamo for some timo owing to an injury, will bo ayaiJjWfi to play again eliortj};..

A returned Australian on English referees: _ "There vou sco tho referee, often a fat, middle-aged man, dressed anyhow, walking about with his hands in his pocket 6, Why. I eaw the New Zealanders pass forward two yards, and this referee, 20 yards away, took no notico of it." In viow of the fact that tho Auckland representative team is to play Otago this soason this item is of interest; Auckland will havo a fine forward division this year, fast, heavy, and up to all tho tricks of the trade. But tho back division does not promise too well, taken all round. Unless Kieman comes to light again Mr Gallagher will have a difficult task to find a half back. Why should the Duncdin writers bo pessimistic as to tho chances of tho Otago representatives this season? (asks a. Wellington writer). They struck tho same tuno beforo the representatives went out 011 tour last season, and yet the latter walloped out Canterbury and Wellington., and demonstrated that au infusion of now blood leads to more successful results in many instances. As far as the Wellington match was concerned, ono would not wish to have a moro dashing pack than Otago had that, afternoon. Tho forwards of the first. New Zealand team to go on tour averaged 14st 21b each. Robertson, of Otago, went 15st 21b; Jim Allen (Otago), 14st; T. B. O'Connor (Auckland), 14st 61b; O'Donnoll (Otago)—fastest man in tho team—l4st 41b; Milton (captain), 14st 21b; and Webb (Wellington), 13st lllb. Jack Leeky, of Auckland, was the lightest man in tho team, weighing 12st.

ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL. Br Left Wixg. In inquiring into tho chargo of violent play pre'errod against tho Green Island First Grade team tho O.F.A. adopted the reasonable procedure of accepting tho referee's opinion regarding tho game. Mr Lean, tho roforco in question, stated that the Green Island " played a bustling game," but in his opinion the play was not unduly rough. Tho O.F.A. therefore decidcd 1 that Maori Hill's charge was not proven, and took up the only attitudo oonsonant with its dignity as a ruling body that there tho matter must end, the committeo declining to he influenced by threats of withdrawal by either Maori Hill or Green Island. It remains for both clubs to accept the inovitablo and proeccd with their fixtures. Tho latest news 011 tho question of this incident is that • tho Green Island Club held a meeting on Tuesday evening, over 30 members attending, to consider tho O.F.A.'s decision, and resolved to adhore to their determination to withdraw their four teams from tho competition unless an apology was received from tho Maori Hill Club before to-morrow. As tho O.F.A. dcoided that an apology was unnooes3ary, tho Green bland Club's request has not been forwarded to the Maori Hill Club, and it is improbable the latter will apologise without being asked. This seems to mean that thcro will nofc/bo a match between Groen Island and Roslyn on tho Asylum Ground oti Saturday. It was not that Southern played altogether badly, but rather that Northorn played surprisingly well. No ono—least of all, perhaps,' the victors—could havo prophesied a 12 to 1 win in favour of Northern. Southern had played such a sterling gamo against Mornington A, tho leading team, that it required a certain amount of assurance to predict a bare win for Northern, more especially in viow o! tho fact that Northern had rcsurrcotcd threo players for the day. . Tho ground has been in a woko condition previously, but still a great straining of tho imagination would bo necessary beforo the ground, as seen on Saturday, could bo regarded as fit for senior football. Brady, in goal for Southern, performed prodigies of valour. If 12 goals got past him a very largo number o! likely attempts wero surely fielded and safely rejected by him. TJIO backs in front of him, M'Hutchon and Ashton, have been seen to greater advantage. The latter was given work which Veitch should havo attended to— the clipping of M'Clclland's wings. This elusive left wing demands the sole attention of the opposing right half, but most of the timo A r eitch allowed M'Clelland to scout between him and Ashton. with the result that when Chadwick placed past Veitch tho Northern flyer had forthwith to bo tackled by tho veteran. One of tho most interesting aspects of tho_ game was tho matching of these two, each fast, and each wily. An excellent opportunity [or measuring speed came when M'Clellnnd with the ball rot a yard start from Ashton with half the field to traverse. The back failed to catch him. At the outset of the game Ashton's vigorous tackling was effective against the Northern left wing, but as the latter got the measure of his man 110 circumvented him freely, and found tho corner, centring moro instead of shooting, as ho frequently does. M'Clelland's display was good to watch. His shrewdness and skill wore apparent when, at tho conclusion of (he notable run just mentioned, w;ith tho goalkeeper in front and an opponent close behind, instead of banging hard in his stride, as was expected, lie simply tapped through the corner with the outsido of his left foot. Milton was, next to Brady, the steadiest man behind the Southern forwards. Ho keeps the ball close, and knows how to rob an opponent. Ritchie, on his loft, slowed up his team frequently by dribbling, instead of kicking up to his forwards. Southern forwards did not get many opportunities, Rose (left wing) in particular having but a small share of tho play. What attack there was camo mostly through Cranston and Macdonald, who combined in somo neat passing bouts. Tho former, though clever, is lacking in snap, and takes things rather easy. The forwards, however, met solid opposition in Shepherd and Morrison, whoso judgment with a slippery, heavy ball was rarely at fault, and proved of great assistance to the forwards. Ratley was, as usual, personification of tact, and Kilgour—well. Kilgour scored a goal. Of the resurrected, Drake, as centre forward, piayed remarkably well, passing and dribbling neatly and effectively. Hayncs was scarcely tested, and Sinclair was 6cen near the ball 011 several occasions. Ohadwick played the game of his lifo, feeding M'Clelland with nice discrimination, using his head in tho dual sense of the word, and shooting with precision, Timlin wao also above par, and tho only forward whoso lustro was not brighter than normal was Deans, playing on the Tight wing. It is a safe conclusion that Northorn have rarely been seen to greater advantage, and, as already indicated, it was to this fact rather than to any pronounced weakness amongst tho Southern that the result was due. Some confusion seems to exist in tho minds of players, and even of some referees, as to the law 111 regard to tho taking on of a man after the gamo has been started. If a team commence short of full strength there seems to bo no law to prevent them taking on a man at any period of the game to complete their strength. They may not, however, take on a man temporarily, to be "-opbrod by another nlaver arriving later. In the case of an injuredplayer leaving tlto field it is a matter for agreement, of tho captains as to whether he, may be roplaced. Roslyn have lost the services of a brilliant goalkeeper' in Jack, who, T understand, has left for tho Home Country. Apparently they have also lost M'Meekin after a very transitory stay with them, as ho hits not been on the field for a couplo of weeks. It is rumoured that there is a possibility of his remedying the weak spot in the Mornington A forward line. Uoslyn were also without the services of Harlow on Saturday, in addition to which Brown was not fully restored; whilst Keen, because of an injury to his foot, '.ins only half efficient, and in tho second ~pcll was placed in goal. All of which was unfortunate indeed, but I am inclined ) think not sufficient to account for defeat ' Wakari. The hill team would have ' 'foaled a full-strength Roslyn. Tho gamo - not. interesting. Hayward played centre ■ilf for Wakari, and made a creditable -hewing, whilst Wright played very .■■mildly. Morrison and Ussher kept on the s-tmo side of the field during both spells, thus getting the bulk of the work by reason of Ihe crcss wind blowing. Clark played centre forward for Roelyn, but was not conspicuously succesfttl in that foreign position. Mornington A did not clay particular'v olever football against the B team, it being alleged against them that, with tho exception of Aircy. they failed to keep near enough to smother tho backs. They put up four ?oals in the first spell, but in the second spell failed io get a goal, whilst the B team scored two. Raillie and Racburn were tho pick of the forwards. Mornington B havo Allen back and Leys established as a full back. They expect to retain their present combination during the remainder of tho season. A Kaitangata correspondent supplies the following:—"Tho Kaitangata-Green Island match resulted in a draw, and it may bo said hero that tho Green Island team wore very lucky in getting away with that result. Thcro can be no doubt that the splendid goal-keeping of Love saved Green Island from being rather badly beaten. Ho made somo remarkable saves, on one occasioa drawing thci bjr dws to Ift tfco

ball over. Grant, Martin, and James also put in somo strong defensive work, and wero easily tlio best of the backs. W. Martin, Anderson, ami J. Barnes were most prominent in the forwards, tho last-named' 6 goal being- ,1 lino shot, which gave Thomson no chance. Tho Kaitangata team played well, showing some fine combination at times, especially in the. second halt. Tn .T. Penman and Williamson Kaitangata have two reliable backs, and they played up to best. form. The hal£ backs aro an oven lot, and distinguished themselves by tho number of attempts they made to score, Dobio and Middleman sending in somo very hot shots. Culhbortson and Matchctt wero tho best of tho forwards, although tho others played well."

ATHLETICS. Bt Auatibr.

HARRIER FIXTURES. —Saturday, June 23.— Dunedin - Harriers.—Orokonui Home, Wailati; guesls Dr R. Donald. Civil Service from Talnraa. Park. Southern Bible Class Harriers.—Run from Anderson's Bay School. Caversham Haiders.—Run from St. Clair; guests of Messrs Brown and Sanderson, Anglican Harriers.—Guests of Mr l'hos. Somerville. Anderson's Bay. Congregational Harriers.—Run from Wakari Drill Hall. St. Joseph's Harriers.—Run from NorthEast Valley, Santa Sabiua. School.

On Saturday next, tho Dunedin Harriers will hold ono of their most popular outings, when they will be tho guests of Dr R. Donald, of Oroiionui Home. Members will procecd by drags to Evansdale, hold a run over the hills there, and drivo homo in tho evening. Given a fine day, a splendid timo can bo promised members, who aro requested to roll up in full force. The drags will lcavo Mr Leilh's stables in, Manor placo at 1.30 p.m. and tho Octagon at 1.45 p.m. Tho Dunedin Harriers hold their fourmile cross-eountry race on Saturday, when 16 runners started. Tho trail (laid by Bonnin and Jackson) was "up hill and down dale," with a number of barb-wire fences and a ploughed field to get through. Tho high wind blew away the paper, and tho limit men were at a disadvantage. At the half-way flag Rainsford and Scott wero leading, closely followed by Hodgson, M'lndoe, and West. At tho plantation Hodgson was leading, with M'lndoo and Thompson in attendance. Thompson was first through the last, fence, and led Hodgson homo by fivo yards, with M'lndoo clo6© up and West, and Mace following. Tho winner started off tho 65500 mark, and ran a good race. Tho- first, second, and fourth men are all now mombers of the club, and will bo heard of again beforo tho end of tho season. Tho Civil Service Harrier and Amateur Athletic Club intend holding a. 10-milo cross-country handicap, open to all amateurs, on the 10th August next, and havo appointed a strong 6ub-committe© to carry out all details. The trail will he laid from Wingatui racecourse, and will bo tho course that was selected last yevir wh«n tho raco was abandoned on account of lack of support. This year it is intended to hold tho race, and a largo entry is confidently looked for. In addition to holding tha handsomo ohallcnge oup, tho winner will roccivo a gold medal valued ot £3 3s, tho second a medal valued at £2 2s, and tha third a trophy worth £1 10a. The first jiovico homo will tako a medal valued at £2 2s, while tho winner of tho fastest timo will receive a medal of the samo' value. The country included in tho courso is ideal for tho purpose, and whilo it. will provo a thorough test of tho capabilities of a cross-eountry runner there are included no formidable pbstacles. Entries will closo •with Mr G. W. Tt'-own, rvre of Ve!etrr:ip!i Department. Dunedin, on the 3rd August. Tho Balclutha Harrier Club opened the season last Wednesday with a splendid mustor. A fine trail was laid by the hares, and a really enjoyable run was held. Secretary V. M 1 Donald advises .that the membership of tho club now numbers 21, and there is promise of a considerable increase beforo the season is well through. The orv is still they comol Tho latest harrier olub formed is the St. Kilda Methodist Church Club. Tho new club has tho advantago of a good mentor in tho person of the Rev. Mr Williuns. Aniious inauiries are being made as to' t.he > date of tho interclub race. Until the decision of the New Zealand Council is known regarding tho re-establishment of tho New Zealand Cross-country Championship'the local centre is .unable to fix a date for tho race. I Jearn that tho dato will, however, be definitely fixed early next month. The Southland Centre is ever alert to tho advancement of amateurism in that province, and tho latest club to form is one at Rivorton, where a strong harrier body has come into existence. Tho new club has ! already held well-attended rune, and tho utmost enthusiasm prevails amongst its members. Southland is to bo congratulated on the addition of another strong bulwark. The fifth annual contest for tho Postal Cup amongst members of the Civil Service Club took place at Forbury on Saturday, when 15 starter faced Mr R, G. Anderson. The distanco of tho raco is qne mile, and this year's contest, as 'usual, provided a capital race. Pridoaux, on tho 110 yards mark, early went into the lead, and took ! tho field along at a great bat, being closely attended by Osborn and Miller, with 1 Lambie threading' his way through . tho field. At tho turn to the straight Lambio got on terms with Prideaux, and onoe tho pair ran into the straight Lambie spurted, and passed PrideaUx with ease, coming ou by hinwlf. nnd wimiinfß a race f.iirlv easily. Tho winner had 40 yards start, and tho time registered was tmin 57seo. Prideaux (110 yards) was second and Osborn (120 yards) third, with Miller (160 yards) close up fourth. Then came Melville (scratch], with Stephens (30 yards) close up. Tho timo, considering tho stato of the track, was excellent, and compares favourably with that of other performances registered. on the samo courso. Lambie is a good_ Tinner, and should prove of assistance to his club in open company. Prideaux looked a winner for three-parts of the journey, but could not last it out at tho pace ho had set. Osborn and Miller performed attractively ami the former looks like a coming distance runner. The back men wero unablo to get up in tho time, but Mclvillo was not far off when tho tapo was reached. Mr Andoreon was heartily congratulated on the success of his handicap. Tho Organising Committee of tho Otago Centre met last week, when it was deoided to renew efforts to form a club at Oamaru. It is proposed to write several well-known amateur enthusiasts in the White City to secure their co-operation and some members of tho centre will visit Oamaru on the 2Uh prox., when it is anticipated that a strong club will be formed. "At present it is tho intention to form an amateur athletic club only. Mr L»n M'Donald, a wellknown and popular Dunedin nuiner, i» now located in Oamaru, and his assistance will bo invaluable to the new club. The centre's 'sub-committee also intends trying l'almerston South again. When tho organising movomept first originated circulars wero sent to this town, and several favourable replies wero received. It is hoped that this time tho attempt to form a club thac will provo successful. The ' controlling members of tho schools' championship and demonstration will be callcd together at an early date, when steps will lie taken to ensuro the success of the meeting during tho coming season, The Postal Cup has been twice won by this year's winner, T. Lambie, who was successful in 1904-. The winners of tho trophy to dato are: 1903, F. Johnson; 190+, T. Lambie; 1905, J. L. Sage; 19(!f>, A. T. Pittaway; 1907, T.'Lambie. It is understood that a strong effort will be made to have South Canterbury represented in the forthcoming cross-country teams championship, and it is to bo hoped that last year's visitors will again make the trip, with better luck than tiioy encountered "last year. Several members of the Timaru Club are very anxious to havo another go at tho southern distance men, and the visit, if it eventuates, will do much to promote the success of tho race, whilo it will still further increase tho friendly feeling existing between tlioso imincili&toly north of the Waitaki and Ota^o. Southland will, I understand, almost certainly agree to this year's interprovincial • contest being held in conjunction, with the New Zealand championship—if re-estab-lished. Now that the dates for the Australasian amateur athletic championships have been deoided, tho New Zealand Council will probably fix on tho dato for the next New Zealand cliampionships, which aro to bo held in Wellington this year. A special meeting of tho council of tho New Zealand Amateur Athletio Association will bo held on Thursday evening to consider a proposal for tho" institution of au individual and interprovincial crcM-counti'v championship of New Zealand. A proposal that the centres should bo asked to discuss a now scheme for the election of tho council will also be submitted to tho meeting.

GOLF.

Bv B'tJicEß. The Auckland Golf Club hold its coriipetition for tho Fry Challenge Trophy last week. Colbeck, who won it, established k record by beating the Colonel § up, and doing the round in 78. * The Otago Club held its annual meeting on Friday evening, there ljeing a good muster of members. The report and balance sheet were read and adopted without discussion. 'lho club has had a successful year, and members sliould feel gratified. Tho following aro tho office-bearers for tho ensuing year:-President,'Dr Ogston; captain, Mr W. 0. MacGrcgor; committee— Messrs G. C. Cripps, A. 1". Roberta, P. Y. Wales, H. D. Stronach, and G. M. MacLoan. Lulogistic references were made to Mr D. Crawford's work as secretary, He was again elected to the position, and mombors showed their appreciation in a tangible fonn. A team of 13 players from tho Otago Golf Club visited Balclutha on Saturday, when a very enjoyable match was played with tho local club. Tho game was keen and interesting, and tho result was in doubt until tho lust two pairs'camo in, when it was discovered that Balmacewan players had won by 2 up. Tho Dunedin team was a junior one, but ns Messrs T. Hunter, P. Y. Wales, P. W. MacLcan> J. N. Lawson, and G. G. Cripps were playing, tho country players have good reason to bo proud of the result of their first contest with the city team. Thomson was 2 up on Hunter; Wale 3 and Gunthorp, Lawson and Spiers, Duthio and R. R. Stewart wero all square; Cripps was ?. up on D. Stewart, Bishop boat J. A. Roberts by 2 up, and Black was 3 up on G. MacLcan. Oldham, Young, and Park won their matches rather easily. Tire sporting character of tho links was rather against the play of tho Dunediu mon, who found tho Balmacowan stylo of approaching was not at all suitable to local conditions. Tho sand bunker and the difficult approaches were tho causcs of the downfall of tho Dunedin crack. Thomson played a fine game, and his consistent play was admired by tho visitors. Tho Balclutha Olub has been in existence for two yeans, and has a membership oE about 30 men and 20 ladies. Tho links aro on tho corporation reserve adjoining the township, and compriso nine holes. Tha ground is lovol, but they havo several good bunkers, and tho lies generally aro fairly good, except in tho long hole. Tho approaches to 6ome of tho greens aro roi gh, and tho Dunedin players found that lofting was not always a safo method of approaching the green. The greens aro fenced with two wires, which is somewhat disconcerting, but a local rulo provides fojj dropping without penalty if a post is in a line with the ball and tho hole. Tho Balclutha caddies aro always toady with advice as jo where to play and how to do it. They aro also grot sunporters of the local men. Ono Dunedin player remarked airily that "ho was doing all right so far." "Yes," ironically remarked tho caddie; "so far." The Dunedin players trreatly enjoyed Saturday's visit to Balclutha. Thov were the guests of the local club at lunch before tho match, and at tea boforo leaving hy. tho express at 5 o'clock. Foursomes wero nlaycd in tho morning. After tea Mr Huntor thankod tho Balclutha, men fon their hospitality, and Mr Bishop (president) replied, referring to the highly educational advantages to tho local men accruing from tho lisit.

HOCKEY. By Bully.

Tho following table shows tho positions of tho various teams engaged in tho Otago Hookey Centre's First Grade competition:—

Played. Won. Drawn. Lost. Goala for. Goals agst. Championship Pojnt3.

11l tho Second Grado Otago are loading with 11 points, Y.JJLC.A. sccond'with 9, and University third with 6 points. Gymnastics have not yet scored. As was confidently expected, tho matoh Utago v. University A proved fast and exciting, and it was undoubtedly the beat exhibition of the game seen in Dunedin thus season. During the first spell Otago' mado eoreral determined rushe3, but in tho strand they seemed to go all to pieoea. tho tacks appeared to lose their heads, this being especially noticeablo in tho cmq' of ono player. Mooro and Latliam playod much tho best back games for Otago, but tho former would bo more at homo in his old placo on tho vring'. Latham was in great form, his stopping and hittting being particidarly fine. Siedeborg and Sparrow both had a day off. Sicdeiberg would do bettor if ho would get his hit in qirioker. i\ot one of the forwards, with tho exception' of Drew played anything like his usual game. Caldcr was too well marked, whilst neither Adams nor Midgely seemed to bo ablo to get hold of the ball. Drow did hu best to rally bis side, but failed. Tho University, on the other hand, havo nover* played tetter hookey. Their forwards were especially good, and tho backs wore not far bohuuL Some of thedr goais ware rather lucky, but unquestionably ibe better team won. White, in goal, playtd his usual safo game, and did what camo his jvuy vol], saving two shots. . Tho. fullbacks were' both in good form, and it would be hard to find two better men in this position at present playing in Dunedin hockey. Davie, at half, wan in great farm his tackling being very deadly, but he should hit harder. Goodnrn fully maintained his reputation as tho mainstay of thla back division, and his kneo did not seem to trouble him. All tho forwards played a good game, Cower and Ratherford on the left wing being especially noticcablo. Cuttle, at oentrc, was always in tho thick of it, and worked his other forwards with great judgment. University's win is attributable to tho excellent manlier in which thoir forwards kept ,up ' against the opposing full-backs and the "P'drty with which they attacked them. £ k"' m on Saturday augur s well for the .North Island tour. Tho contest between Gymnastic and University B was not of a very exciting nature. At tho start of tho game University seemed able to stand up against their opponents, but onco the Gymnastio team got fairly going they loft the issue of the game in no doubt. TKcir forwards and halves worked well togcthor and succeeded in demoralising tho opposition. Austin was, as usual, a tower of strength among the backs, and Fell was also prominent for clever and useful work. Israel was tho pick of the forwards. For University Bcgg was the most useful forward, and jnade somo brilliant runs, though too much inclined to individual play. The left side of t3io team way very weak, with the exception of Kobertson at left full-back, who put in soino sound defensive work. University had a good deal of hard luck, but they have a lot to learn yet. in tho matter of combination before thoy can hopo to win matches. The programme of matches to bo played by tlm University team 011 its iiorthorn tour has now been definitely arranged. They are to meet 'I'aranaki at Not Plymouth on July 11, Auckland province at Auckland on tho 13th, Auckland College on tho 15th, Manjuvatu on tho 17th, Victoria College at Wellington on the 20&, Wellington province on the 24tli, and Canterbury at Christchurch. on tho 25th. As will he seen, this is a vory heavy fortnight's! work, and tlie centre would bo well adrised to umvido a liberal gupoly of emergencies. If, as is • understood, tho selected team to bo submitted to tho centro contains only 12 names, there is almost certain to bo a shortage of players before tho tour is over. It is probable that, only one man outsido tho University Club will make the trip. The concert, held on Tuesday evening in tho Stuart Hall to raiso funds to go towards tho expenses of tho touring team was a great success, and it is expected that a profit of eloso on £15 will 'bo realised. • Tho genial "Jim" Moore, of Otago Club, will be leaving for South America next, month. He will, however, bo available for tho Wellington match. With 0110 exception, none of the clubs arc showing any improvement in tho mattor of taking the field slmrp up to time. They aro rather getting worse intsond of liettcr, and tho result is that matches often have to bo finished in tho dark. Perhaps there will bo an improvement when some important match lias been claimed liy default. , (Continued on pago 10.)

Otago .... 6 5 0 1 28 •' 7 10 University X. .. 6 5 0 1 39 3 10 Gymnastio „ G if 0 3 21 1G 6 Y.31.C.A. .5 1 0 4 8 33 2 University B .. G 0 0 5 3 37 0