OPUNAKE V. "SPRINGBACKS"

Opunake Times, 16 July 1937, Page 2

OPUNAKE V. "SPRINGBACKS"

TO-MORROWS MATCH BENEFIT AT DOMAIN

We have all followed the senior fifteen in ifis splendid run “ of success throughout the season, and although many of us think a little more recognition should have been accorded several outstanding players by the selectors, we hardly expected an honour such as a match with the “Springbucks” to fall to their lot.

However, the fact remains that their prowess has been broadcast and the chaUenge has been accepted, so the public will be afforded the opportunity of seeing this bright combination pitted against the pick of the South. It might be as well for us to enlighten readers on several points about the “Springbucks” which may be of interest. In the first place it is generally known that we have in our midst quite a few footballers who consider that the “come-back” stage is all set for them and being anxious to show off their undoubted skill, with possibly a hope that an All Black selector may hear of the match and fly up in search of new material, they have challenged the senior fifteen and will meet it on the Domain to-morrow at 2.30 o’clock. The main object of this match, we may mention at this stage, is to raise funds for the assistance of a me'mber of the junior team who suffered a broken leg in a re ~ cent match. Strenuous Training Since the news became general, a noticeable difference in those chosen to represent the “Springbacks” has been the rule. Practice of all kinds has Leen resorted to, such as the spirited chopping of firewood and catching ‘of the rolling-pin or iron instead of side-stepping, as is usual. Another fact that leads us to suppose that the interest is keen is- the reported sale of every knee and ankle bandage in the town, while the fragrant perfume of embrocation issues from the home of each ambitious member of the team. Brisk rubbing of the muscles has been resorted to by several of the older lads, who we would urge to save any surplus energy for after the game. It is evident that fifteen of them will be “feeling the effects of wear and tear” for at least a week, but who cares when a good old game of Rugger is on the cards.

At any rate, we’ll all agree that they played a wonderful game and were really “stiff” in not getting in the reps. They’ll certainly agree as far as the “stiff” is concerned.

Still, on paper, the married men have what good judges are inclined to think the material for providing a fast, open game for at least the first spell. After that stage we all hope the score will be big enough for them to see it out. This is a match that will be hard fought, both teams Being keen to take the honours and the public will be rewarded doubly by turning out to witness it. The object is worthy of full support and favoured with a fine day, the proceeds to be handed over should be of a very fair amount. Mr J. Moron will referee the match.

The “Springbucks” team is as follows:

Full-back: C. Humphries. ; Three-Quarters : G. Snell, ,C. Hoha ia, T. Godkin. Five-eighths: R. Hohaia, GL Mclvor. Half-back: W. Robson.

Forwards: G. Mabey, M. Dudley. A. Mauriri. W. Ruakere, B. Waller, A. Baylis, W. Walsh and F. Waiwiri.

Emergencies: F. Hohaia, W. Hohaia, A. Sinclair, K. Cruden, M. Heath and R. Jenkin.

Jerseys and socks will be provided for players at the Club Hotel. where the team will assemble at 2.15 p.m.