RUGBY GOSSIP.

Otago Witness, Issue 3101, 20 August 1913, Page 53

RUGBY GOSSIP.

Three All Blacks are now playing in New Zealand football, and all three still good enough for representative company—Cunning-’ ham, Casey, and M'Donald

Otago haa stili a good lead in tho number of wins over Canterbury. Out of the 35 matches played between the provinces Otago ha.s won 19, Canterbury eight, and eight hrive been drawn. Tho latest llanfurly Shield match between Auckland and Taranaki makes the twentyeighth game between thc=e provinces. Auckland Inis won 17, Taranaki eight, and threo have been drawn

Loveridgo, the Taranaki threequarter, who has been included in the New Zealand team lor California, does not appear to have created a favourable impression in .Ai “eland, where be played for Taranaki last Saturday. On September C, at Lancaster Park, Dun-' edin Pirates will play their annual fixture with the. Christchurch Club. Pirates can be assured of the right royal welcome which always awaits visitors.-it the hands of the Red-and-Blacfcs

A correspondent in Palmerston North advises me of the recent marriage of J. Stalker, the ex-Otago and once New Zealand threequarter. Stalker is still playing in representative football, and recently captained the Manawatu representatives.

It is understod that should a Maori team visit Australia again next year, or obtain, permission to gratify the wish Parata’a heart and tour Great Britain, young N. Stead, of the Star Club, Invercargill, will be asked to accompany them. Commenting on the tour of the Australian Rugby team which will visit New Zealand this month, a Sydney paper says that it ia clear that the South Island games promise to be most strenuous, and the fact that the Maoris were able to play such a close gamewith Wellington indicates that the Australians will also lie able to make good showing there. If there is anv weakness in the Australian side, says a Sydney writer on the Australian team for New Zealand, it is in the forward division. They will probably suffer by comparison with the New Zealanders It may bo disclosed that they are hardly hefty enough. Some of them, who shine now in the open work, are inclined to loaf in the ecruma. They will not he able to do that in New Zealand, or. rather, if they do, they will land their side in trouble.

A Timaru man who has a friend going to California in the Dominion team applied to the Management Committee of the controlling body for permission to be allowed to make one of the happy narty—paying his own expenses, of course. The committee decided, however, that it would not be wise to establish the precedent, especially as the finances, as far as passage money is concerned, are being controlled by the authorities on the Pacific Slope 'The Maori touring team of 1913 has been disbanded. Only two of the men. however, — Takarangi and Winiata —contemplate retiring from the game. The majority of the team are still young players, and it seems that tha Maori ambition is reaching out in the direction of a trip to England, this trip to take place next year. “We are going to make one more bid for an English trip,” remarked Mr Parata, “and if we fail to bring it off—well, we’ll give it up for id.” Auckland s pack is a very fine one, and the scrum that beats them will be an exceptionally high-claes one, says an Auckland writer. In the loose they show surprising pace for big men, and when they get going are hard to stop. Downing, Wylie, Bruce, and Barrett are a hot quartet, to say nothing of Sellars and Tresize, two top-notch hookers, and with thq, burly Cunningham as the"' master mind, it can easily bo imagined why the Blue-ancl-White take such a lot of beating. The Auckland threcquartor Mucky seems to be more harshly treated than Mitchinaon, for hie form has been consistently good for sumo time and his inclusion would greiUly strengthen the team. This is the feeling in Auckland, at any rate, but his non-inclusion has not been made the ground for an attack on the selectors, for, although to the majority of footballers, it is hard to understand why he has been left out, still, no one has though* it necessary to accuse the selectors of unfairness.—Auckland Star. A Christchurch physical cultunst, desirous of accompanying the New Zealand team to California, wrote to the New Zealand Hugby Union with a view to making tha trip as trainer to the All Blacks, and his application was under consideration at tha meelng of the Management Committee on Wednesday night. He mentioned that he had trained several well-known athletes, including the doughty Dick Arnst, but. the committee came to the conclusion that u trainer was too much of a luxury, and politely bu* firmly turned the suggestion down. Before the match against Otago a Canterbury writer said; —“The team which is making" the southern tour is a very ordinary one, and their inglorious defeat by Soutn Canterbury in their first match will occasion but little surprise. Indeed, it will l>e surprising if they win either of the other two matches, but they have at least a chance against Southland. As for the game against Otago, 'all hope has already been abandoned, as the southern representatives are reported to be very strong both back and' forward. It is a pity that so many of our beat players are not available for this trip. It may be remembered that such was the case on the occasion of the last trip in 1911.” Regarding the visit of the Austnlian Rugby team to New Zealand a Sydney correspondent says; —“Mr C. E. Morgan, who has made three trips to Queensland in charge of the New South Wales team, will figure as manager of. the Australian Union team in New Zealand. He is a referee of ‘2l years’ standing, and he has during this lengthy innings officiated in contests of all grades, including matches with New Zealand and Queensland As the tours to Queensland in 1911, 1912, and 1913 have all been under-

token at his own expense, it is befitting that he should be offered the present position fey the union. The appointment is one that will be warmly endorsed by both officials and players.” Prior to the interstate Rugby match, Queensland v. New South Whies, played at Brisbane on July 26, a goal-kicking competition was held, the prize gold medal presented by the Queensland Rugby L nion. The conditions were as follow: —Each competitor allowed one kick from the _ following positions;—Stab, about 15 yards in front of goal; long place, about 35 yards in front of goal; angle place, about three yards from touch-line at the twenty-five yards flag; drop kick, about 35 yards in front of goal. Dwyer, Reynolds, and Fahey represented New South Wales, and Willcocks, Carroll, and M'Mahon Queensland. After the conditions were complied with flic judge requested \\ illcocks, Fahey, and Carroll lo have another kick. Fahey and Carroll failed, but Witleccks landed a beauty, and was awarded the prize. Three of the competitors—Fahey, M'Mahon, and Dwyer—are members of tho team that will tour New Zealand at tho end of this month. OTAGO RUGBY - UNION. The weekly meeting of the Otago Rugby Union was hold on Monday evening, the president (Mr H. Harris) in the chair. The Wairarapa Union notified that the team to play Otago would arrive in Dunedin on Thursday, September 4. The team would consist of 22 players, including a manager. A letter was read notifying that tho Hon. Minister of Education had informed the Education Department to offer no objection to leave-of absence being granted to Mr Cuthill for the Californian trip. The New Zealand Union notified that players for the Californian tour must be examined in Wellington by the N.Z.R.U. s medical officer. As a precaution tho New Zealand Union suggest that players be examined by a local doctor, but the union must also be satisfied by the medical officer ijj Wellington. The union was notified that Dr Harrison had been appointed manager of the V\ ai-hemo-Waikouaiti football team, which is to play an Otago Junior team a-s a curtain raiser to the Otago-South Canterbury match on Saturday. MANIOTOTO SUB-UNION The third annual seven-aside tournament and sports was held at Ramurly on Thursday. Deplorable weather prevailed, and in consequence the playing area was soft, and several small lagoons of water provided a certain amount of amusement for tho spectators. Notwithstanding tho adverse circumstances fully 300 people were present, and were rewarded by witnessing a series of close games. Tho “ passing game ” was totally out of the question owing to tho heavy ball. There were record entries—lo senior teams, six junior teams, and three school teams, also five relay teams. Extra interest was centred in the visit of a team from Alexandra, but they had to take second place to last year’s winners—tho Naseby A team. The refereeing was efficiently carried out by’ Messrs R. Allison, R. Haig, and John Morgan. Mr Thomas Forrester ably carried out his duties as director of events, and the games were, with as little delay as possible, ge>t off promptly. In tho evening a social and dance was held, and was extra well attended, dancing, with songs, mutations, etc., interspersed being the programme. Tho results of the tournament arc as follow: — Schoolboys Sevcn-asido Event.— Ranfurly was beaten by 3 points to nil by tho Naseby team. This was one of the best contest's of the day. Junior Seven-aside Event.—First round: Naseby beat Patcaroa by 3 points to nil; Matakanui boat Strath-Taieri by 6 points to nil; Matakanui B defaulted to Ranfurlv. Second round: Ranfurlv beat Naseby by 3 points to nil. Final; Matakanui i. .. rurly by 3 points to nil. Seven-aside Event.—First round: Naseby A beat Ginnnerhurn A by 9 points to nil; Ranfurly A beat Gimmerburn B by 9 points to 5; Alexandra beat Matakanui A by 3 points to nil; Ranfurly B won by default from Matakanip B; Naseby B won by default from Strath-Taieri. Second round: Naseby A beat Ranfurly A by 6 points to 3; Naseby B beat Ranfurly B bv 19 points to nil; Alexandra, a bye. Third round: Naseby B were beaten by Alexandra by a force down. This was a splendid game. There was no score at the dose of tho game, and several four minute spoils wore played before Naseby had to force down. Final: Naseby A beat Alexandra by 6 points to nil. Tries were scored bv " W. Smith and Jacobs. Teams’ Relay Race.—Alexandra, Gimmerburn. Matakanui, and Ranfurly started. Ranfurly team (Messrs M'Lcan, Chisholm, F Bleach, and W. Bleach) secured first place. Footballers’ Race.—W. M'Lcan and G Shaw tied for first place. Chain Stopping Competition (exact distance 20yds 4iu). —Mr P. F. Doudiertv (20yds Sin) 1. Weight-guessing Competition (exact weight of sheep 69jlb).—Mr A. Mawhinnev 6911 b) 1. Place-kicking Football.—A. Williams. TEAM FOR CALIFORNIA. , WELLINGTON, August 15. The selectors of t?io Rugby team for California have officially informed tho Management Committee of the New Zealand Union that Mitchinson (Wellington) •and Lovcridge (Taranaki) have been chosen to replace O’Leary and Gcddos, the Auckland backs, who are unable to make tho trip. CANTERBURY v. SOUTH CANTERBURY. TIMARU, August 14. _ Tlie Canterbury touring team played South Canterbury here to-dav in the presence of 15CQ people. The weather was dull and tno ground sloppy. A fairly intercsting contest resulted in favour of ihe homo team by 21 points to 3. The local team made a much better showing than against tho Maoris, and had the advantage all through. Edmiston and Dalton (2) scored tries, and Cockroft kicked four splendid goals, a very good performance considering the greasy state of the ball. Gumming scored a try for Canterbury. Cockroft (centre three-quarter) and I). Scott (full back) were prominent throughout. Mr 11. 11, Eraser was referee. TARANAKI v. MAORIS. IIAWERA. August 16. Taranaki B, mainl; a scratch team, beat A team of Maoris by 16 points to 6. Tho Maoris were also short and had to pick up men on the ground. Cado scored three

tries, and Cameron one. Katcue scored a try, and Kcrukikue kicked a penalty goal.

CANTERBURY v. OTAGO. A WIN FOR THE FORMER. The heavy rains during the week flooded the leading grounds and rendered the playing of the Utago-Canterbury match at the Caledonian or Carisbrook grounds impracticable. it was therefore decided to play at Tahuna Park, 'the ground in front of the grand stand at the park was under water, and the match was played on the adjacent area, which, though rough and uneven, was comparately dry save for one spot in front of tiie western goal. A crowd or some 3000 turned our, but no provision had been made to keep the spectators from encroaching on the touch and dead ball lines. Complaints wore rife at the mismanagement of the local union, whose short-sighted policy had invited the trouble. Not only were the spectators inconvenienced, but the play and the players were severely handicapped, the game was hard-fought and keenly contested. The local forwards were expected to more than hold their own, but the young and vigorous Canterbury eight surprised everyone by their play. Not only did they out-match the Rluos in pace and dash, but beat them badly for’ the ball in the scrums, and frequently broke clean through the Blues on the line out. While the Canterbury forwards were going well the Canterbury backs wore fielding safely, and kicking powerfully and with fine judgment. The visitors had easily the best of the first spell, in which Ota.go floundered hopelessly, the forwards lacking dash and combination and the backs tumbling and kicking feebly. In the second half, with the slope of the ground in their favour, Otago played better, and gave Canterbury an anxious time. Otago had several excellent opportunities of scoring in the second half, and had the Blues possossed a reliable pLacc-kick would Lave beaten Canterbury. But, like the dropkick ng, the place-kicking was poor. On the run ot the play- there was not a great margin of difference between the teams Canterbury having the better of the fi'&t spell and Otago the advantage in the second, but in actual football Canterbury easily outclassed Otago, whose form was degrees below representative standard. Mr A. Downes controlled the game splendidly, but his work was harassing, owing to the spectators continually encroaching on the ground. Owing to having been recently vaccinated, Graham was unable to play for Otago, his place being taken by Davidson, of Zingan. Following were the teams: Canterbury (Red-and-Black). Full back, J. Bain (10.6); three-quarters—A. Macdonald (12. U), \V. Summers (12.0), F, Taylor (10.6); five-eighths—H. Watson (11.0), E. Sandman (10.6); half back, P. Arnodeo (11.6); forwards—K. Hassell (12.7), C. Hecvirtv (11.10) W. Cummings (13.0), A. Fanning (13.4)!’ L. A. Dougall (12.7), W. Maxwell (11.7), P. Kennedy (11.9), JMchrtens (12.0). Otago (Dark Blue).—Full back, G. Scott (12 0); three-quarters—E. Watson (11.0). J. Cuthill (13.0), R. Harris (11.4); five-eighths— A. Eckhold (10.6), F. Williams (10.4); halt back W. Drvden (8.5); forwards—S. Casey (12.2), P. Williams (12.2). A. Patterson (14.0) J. Mowait (12.8), T, Woodrow (12.4), C. Davidson (12.6), A. M‘Donald (12. i), J. Douglas (13.0). , Canterbury won the toss and played with tho wind and the slope of the ground in their favour. Patterson kicked oft, and Bain’s return found the half-way flag. From the line out Sandman got tho ball and punted into Otago’s twenty-five, where Scott was slow in getting in his kick. Harris, on the right wing, was instrumental in shifting play, and the ball went out, but from the line Arnodeo passed out to Sandman, whoso transfer was dropped by Watson, the Canterbury five-eighth. This was the first attempt at passing, and it was early seen that Canterbury was going to make an open game of it. Canterbury forwards were going well, playing with fine dash and good combination. They carried a line out and swept the ball in front of them over tho Otago line, but Cummings, who was in the van, just failed to touch down, and Douglas forced. The Canterbury backs were fielding safely and kicking" well, and by this means kept the Otago defence busy. The Blurs now came away with a great rush, which drove the Rods’ back on defence, but Otago could not get through, and Canterbury centring, a scrum was formed in Otago’s twenty-five. The ball came out on the Canterbury side, but the pass to Sandman was cut off, and Harris kicked high. Bain was playing a safe game, and taking the ball on the full, tho Canterbury full back found tho halfway flag. From the line Arnodeo, the Canterbury half back, sent the hall out to Sandman, the latter sending it on to Watson, who dropped the pass. Arnodeo picked up and kicked high, and the ball going over the lino Scott forced. The Blue forwards wore failing to hold the Canterbury pack, who wore breaking through and making play off the jumbling of the Otago halt and five-eighths. Patterson headed a Blue rush, but lost control and Canterbury kicked past the half-way where, wide on the left, Arnodeo secured a mark, and Hassell, the Canterbury captain, kicked n splendid goal. Canterbury had drawn first blood 10 minutes after starting. Canterbury 3 points, Otago nil. Tho Canterbury forwards young and vigorous, were straining every ounce, and with tho backs fielding safely and kicking well, the play so far had all been in the visitors’ favour. Otago was being beaten for tho ball in the scrums, and if by any chance it came out from the side of the scrum tho Canterbury forwards wore on to it like a pack of wolves. Opportunities came to the Otago backs at rare intervals, but they fumbled badly, and wore bustled in insecurity by the Canterbury forwards, who wore playing close on to them, and coming through in fine stylo. A Blue rush, headed by Casey and Williams, lot Otago into an attacking position in front of goal. The Blues for once in a way, secured the ball from a scrum, and the Otago backs wore set in motion for the first time. Drydon sent the ball out to Eckhold. who cut across and passed to Watson, ihc Port player cut back into the centre, and was tackled in front of goal. Otago failed to hold the position, and Canterbury kicked clear to midfield, whore further kicking by the Rods found the Otago backs out of position. Cuthill speculated in front of his i own goal. 1 Ins was a fatal mistake, for Arnodeo marked and Hassell, for tho second time, kicked a goal. Canterbury 6 points. Otago nil. Matters were looking blade for the Blues, who had so far failed to find their game, and were being badly beaten by tho opposition. whose dash in the forwards and reliability of tho backs was most marked. The drop out was well returned by Bain, who

found touch at half-way. From the subsequcnt play Harris marked, and Patterson, punting- high, gave his forwards a chance to get under it, but Hassell reached the ball first, and the Canterbury captain kicked high over their heads. The Otago forwards were not following up fast, and Canterbury forwards and backs were allowed ample time to get in their kicks. Otago started a passing rush. Uryden, Williams, and Cuthill handling in turn, but the latter was well tackled, and his wild pass was snapped up by Macdonald, who ran down the touch line with a drawn defence. The Canterbury wing was well clear, but confronting Scott ho hesitated, and, evidently thinking that

discretion was the better part of valour, passed wildly in-field, where Eekhold cut it off. and found touch. The Blue forwards attempted to break through from the lino out, but Amodco marked cleverly and Hassell had another kick at goal. This time the ball fell short and Otago dropped out. The Blue forwards came away in a wild rush, and when within Canterbury's twentyfive the backs were thrown into action, but Williams, neglecting to pass the ball our to Harris wait ng on the wing, a good chance was lost. After an exchange of kicks Harris centred, hut the only effect was to give the ball to the Reds, and Macdonald made a good run down touch. Cuthill came to the rescue, and single-handed shifted the scene of play into the Rods’ territory, where Otago’s attack was set at defiance bv Summers marking. The subsequent kick sent Otago racing back to recover, but not before the Canterbury forwards. who were down on the Otago backs before they could get in their kicks. Eckho!<l failed to stop a Canterbury rush, and Cummings carried tho hall in dangerous proximity to the Otago lino. Tho Blue forwards' rallied and drove Canterbury uphill, but tho attack was not sustained. The Canterbury forwards hooking the ball from the scrums, wore making play for tho backs, who were kicking well and gaining stretches of ground. Just on half time the Blues' lino was in danger, but Harris cleared, and following up his kick, got to Bain before the latter could got in his return. The Canterbury full back sought relief by throwing the hall out of play. Tho penalty kick, taken bv Patterson, found Canterbury’s twenty-five flag, and the whistle sounded for half-time. Canterbury 6 points. Otago Nil.

During the half-time interval Mchrtens, the Canterbury wing forward, who Had received a nasty injury to one ot His eyes, retired and was rcp-aced by Harvey, as soon as Canterbury Had sli the ball in motion the Keels’ tor wards dashed oil at top speed and wore- at once in among the Otago tracks, who, however, now tnat they had the wind in their favour, gained more ground With their kicking, -alter an excnange ot kicks Watson tailed to take a pass, letting the Kcds into the Ulago twenty- live, where Canterbury had a tree kick, which Hassell missed, The Blue torwards cam© away iji a rusii which was well checked by Amodco, who punted hign over their heads. Cuthill iic.ded, and piercing the defence flung a pass out to Watson, who centred and let Ctugo in on attack, but I’atterson, getting oltside, upset the scheme. The Blue ior wards now took a hand, and with a determined rush swept all before them and boro down to the Reds’ line. Blay swung in front of goal, and Patterson had a penalty which screwed off his foot, and the Reds forced. Dropping out short the Reds’ forwards were quickly on to the ball, and Cummings, getting away, was pulled down by Harris, who then got in a kick which he followed up. The University player tackled Bain bclorc that player couid get in his kick. The Blues were now fighting desperately near the Canterbury line. Play swung across the Canterbury goal, where Watson raced across to the left and passed to Cuthill, who let Harris away on the edge of the touch lino. The speedy Varsity three-quarter had no room to work, so doubled in-held through the defence like a Hash and went on, until bored to the corner Hag, where he was thrown out. It was a rare dash—the first real one of the day, on the Otago side —and raised the hopes'ot the Blues’ supporters. The Blues were now playing with fine dash, but the Canterbury forwards wore quick to get on to the passing rushes, breaking them up in the centre and getting away with the ball at their feet. Kick’ng back, the Reds got past half-way, and carrying a scrum in front of Otago's goal wore hot foot on attack. A penalty kick forced Otago, and the Blue forwards followed up the dropout iike demons. In midfield Patterson had a “no charge” kick, which Bain fielded beautifully and found half-way. Otago were finding it no easy task to break the defence, mainly owing to the safe fielding and kicking of the Canterbury backs. The Otago backs wore punting high for the forwards to get under, but the Canterbury full-back was taking the ball with great certainty. Suddenly Otago changed their tactics and flung a series of devilish rushes at the Canterbury lino, but the Reds withstood the shock, then from a scrum Otago developed another system of attack. Drydcn whipped the ball out to Eckhold, who cut in, drew the defence, and flung a wide pass out to Cuthill, but the University centre failed to get through. Canterbury were now being hammered at on the left whig, whore Harris made another bold clash which nearly carried him over, but he was tackled at the corner flag, and in the collision (K. Taylor, the Canterbury centre, was dazed. The game was hold up for five minutes, but eventually Taylor had to retire. When Harris made his final dash it was impossible to see what actually happened owing to the spectators crowding round the corner flag. Canterbury used the short drop out to keep their forwards in touch, and Hassel secured, punting high to Scott, whose return was weak, and Canterbury were in Otago's twenty-five. The attack was short-lived, for a kick by Otago cleared, and for the first time Bain failed to field. The Blues swarmed down and Otago was awarded a free kick for the Canterbury full-back holding on to the hall. Cuthill made no better attempt than Patterson, and another chance was lost. The Blurs again attacked, but Sandman saved with a timely kick to touch, and the Reds broke away from the line-out. ]■>!<- hold centred, but the Blue forwards were slow in getting under, and Watson (Canterbury) marked. At this stage Fraser came on in place of Taylor, and Otago swarmed in front of the Canterbury goal, where the Blues lost, a certain try bv over-running and by failure to pick up the ball. Just as the scramble disentangled Harris came u.p fast, and, kicking the ba'l past the Canterbury full-back and over the ]in\ made a dive and scored. Cuthill failed to convert.

Canterbury 6 points. Otasro 3 points. Canterbury had all their work cut out to

stop Otago after this. The Blues came away in another rush, and flung the attack to tho left, where Harris kicked hard over the Canterbury line, tho ball striking tho spectators. Following tho drop out there was a terrific rush by tho Otago forwrads, and B'uos and Reds came into collision in front of tho latter’s goal. Douglas was seen to throw his arms up in tho air and then fall on the ground with two Canterbury players on top of him. Douglas was badly stunned and was carried off the field. Fisher replaced tho injured player. Within five minutes of time came the best chance of tho day for Otago. Canterbury was attacking in Otago's twenty-five when Williams broke clear, with tho defence, all save the Canterbury full-back, left behind. Racing over tho Canterbury twenty-five lino Williams had Patterson on his left and Cuthill on his right. Everyone looked for the pass, but it. never came. Instead Vv iiliams punted, and Patterson in his effort to get the ball knocked on. Just on time Otago hid another chance from a free kick, which Watson missed, and the game ended: Canterbury 6 points. Otago 3 points. THE RANFURLY SHIELD. TARANAKI v. AUCKLAND. WIN FOR THE CHALLENGERS. (JC IV , U, August id. The RaJifurly .to.out maccu gciwcen Auckland and x uumaki was piaycd in line w«.atner on a ntavy ground, r auo was an attendance ot a pout io.dOO wnen tue teams hied ou to itie ground. A oglu south-east wind gave a vc.y snglit advantage to the defenders ot tin - eastern goal laranaki won the tees, and played Horn the western end. iVPßcocl captained tne vis.tors and O'Leary Auckland. Auckland wore the first to get going, a passing run having laranaki clcionu.ng. Utt-sido play let tne visitors, clear, and Horn tlio hist scrum Auckland secured tho bail, but Weston missed a pass, Mucky kicking into touch. The Taranaki lor wards were putting a lot of dash into their work, and piay settled in tne Auckland quarter. Brown kicked over, and Cameron, lo.iow.ng up last, beat O’Leary and scored alter five minutes’ piay. Btohr missed an easy kick. i he visitors came back to the attack, but were over anxious, a free k.ck pulling them up. They kept up the pressure, and were running the Aucicland lor wards off their legs. Webb saved nicely. The visitors were throwing the ball about and making it open, but Roberts hung on too long, and the free kick sent them past tne halt for the first time. A free kick to Taranaki took them to the Auckland territory, and M'Gregor, missing badly, tho visitors attacked again. Loose kicking ended at the half-way flag. A knock to Scohr called a halt lor the regulation three minutes. On resuming tho Auckland forwards took charge, and Brown being penalised, O'Leary had a shot, the ball tailing short. Auckland now attacked, and Geddcs got over, but was called back for going out of bounds. Auckland kept up tho attack, and Macky made a fine opening and sent tho ball to Geddcs, who was ab e to outpace M’Leod and Hill and score. O’Leary kicked a goal. At til's stage Stone came on again, but immediately retired, Meuli taking his place, going full-back, and Hill coming up to three-quarter. Taranaki attacked, and Hill (lotted at goal, making a great attempt, the hail going just outside tho post. Auckland forced, which they had to do immediately after from a long kick by Tamu. Taranaki were making tho game open, but their attack Jacked finish. Auckland then took a hand at attacking but a mark by Loveridgc sent them back. Roberts shortly after had a shot at goal, but it was rushed down, and Webb kicked to the centre. Another free kick had Taranaki in Auck'and’s twenty-five, but off-side play spoilt the advantage. Auckland cleared, but a free kick for off-side play by Hall let tho visitors in again. They were beaten back, however, and Auckland had a turn at attacking: but Webb hung on too long, and Taylor made a lino opening, Roberts throwing away a score by m’ssing an easy pass. Auckland shortly after forced. Taranaki were still setting a solid pace, and had Auckland busy defending. They were beating Auckland in the loose, but tho Blue hacks were tackling in groat stylo, and they wore unable to got through. Shortly afterwards Wylie was penalised for off-side play, and Hill had a shot, the hall going wide, and Auckland forced. Still another shot came immediately after, Hill again missing, and Auckland forced twice in quick succession. Off-side play after tho kick out let Auckland past the centre, but they failed to keep tho position, and Taranaki attacked. Auckland cleared till Taranaki came again. Hill kicking out, tho boll ringing shortly after with the score unaltered. In the final half Taranaki scored 11 points and Auckland 6. Taranaki win tho shield, tho final scores being: Taranaki 14 points. Auckland 11 points. A POPULAR WIN. (From Qua Own Correspondent.) AUCKLAND, August 17. From a spectacular point of view tho match was tho finest and the most exciting us to incident and varying fortunes over witnessed in tho history of the Ranfurly Shield. How tho challengers won their way to victory in the last few minutes, when it looked as though the fates were temporarily against them, is a story that will go down to prostority. Tho most pleasing feature of the match was the astonishing reception which tho winners got. All through the game the “barracking” was more pronounced for Taranaki than for tho home team, and when the final bell rang cheer after cheer greeted the southerners, while an excited rnob rushed them, carrying the hulk of the players off the field shoulder-high to their dressing room. As tho players left for their brake. Mr Shcahan (chairman of tho Auckland Rugby Union) called for three cheers for tho visitors, which the crowd gave with great heartiness. The outbreak could not have been greater had Auckland been tho victors. When tho team returned to their quarters at the Royal Hotel a crowd of about 300 was waiting to welcome thorn, and they again received an ovation. The Taranaki forwards were magnificent, and they beat the Auckland pack in every department of the game, especially in lineout work and the open. They showed tremendous dash and pace, and time after time they swept over the local vanguard, a lot of scores, however, being lost through over eagerness. Tho Auckland forwards were good in tho heavy work, but they failed to hold their own when the ball got

free, and their loose rushes could be counted on one hand. In the first spell it was hardly anything but laranaki. and they swept down the field in great style, the defence of the Auckland backs being soundly tested. Ihe Auckland three-quarters and full back did a lot of stopping, but there was a weakness in the live eighths and half, and they faded to get down to the rushes. This enabled the visitors to open up the play, threw the ball about in a manner that brought continued applause from the croud, who cheered the visitors for their fine work. In the second spell Auckland were expected to rise to the occasion, but Taranaki maintained their fine form, and with half of the 45 minutes gone had rattled on six pomts. and led by 9 points to 5. Auckland then rallied and their combination for about a quarter of an hour was more like their true form than at any other stage of the game. They attacked continually, and tries came as the result of passing runs, M'Gregor and Weston being the scorers. Auckland’s luck appeared to be in, for, with only about 10 minutes to go, the totals were—Auckland 11 points, laranaki 9. The visitors were, however, playing it out to the bitter end, and they came down the field with n combined rush. The ball was sent to Hill, who centred, and the forwards carried the ball o\cr with a passing run. Roberts got possession and was awarded the try. Hawkins kicked a goal, and Taranaki were 14 points to 11 amidst a scene of great excitement. that was repeated when the bell rang a few minutes later. Prior to their winning rush, Taranaki appeored to bo tiring, gi\ mg many the impression that the local team was going to win through sheer lastmg powers. Taylor gave a great displav of wing-for-ward work, and certainly no better man has been seen in Auckland for some time. Dewar, Hawkins. Whittington, and Tamil were in the thick of it all the time, but the whole pack deserve every credit. The hacks, considering the chances they got, wore not up to expectations, and several times they hud opportunities that went bogging through want of dash. Loveridgo in particular was a disappointment; but probably too much was expected from him on account of the reports received of his play. Brown, behind the pack, was easily the pick, and he did a lot of work in a firstc ass manner. The Auckland forwards were a long way below standard, and have never been seen to loss advantage. They appeared lifeless, especially in the first half, mid failed to go the pace set. The only time they really approached their true form was about half way through the second spell, when they looked like outstaying their opponents. The Auckland five-eighths’ line did not work well together. Gcddes did a lot of work on attack, but his defence was weak. Weston was all at sea in the first half, and though ho improved somewhat in the second spell he was hardly up to form. Stewart played a great game as centre three-quarter, especially in defence, and Mackay was also good. M'Grcgor did not get a great many chances, but hung on too long, and was blocked time and again. O’Leary was not as good as usual. Auckland will meet Taranaki on the latter’s own ground on September 4, CHRIST’S COLLEGE v. OTAGO BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL. WIN FOR THE FORMER. The unbroken record of matches between Christ’s College and me Otago Hoys' Jtiiga School inaugurated in 1883 was seriously threatened m 1913. The weather on Wednesday could not have been worse, but it was decided to piay tile mutch. Ram lc-11 iioavi y all day, and a driving wind increased the atrocity of it all. Alter an inspection of iahuna Bark it was agreed to adhere to the original venue—Curisbrook. This ground had been partly protected by sand, but it was in many places under water, and before play had long been in progress the playing area was like a quagm.re. Scientific lootball was altogether out of the question, while the recognised theories of defence and attack were set : t defiance. The game was more or lees of a scramble, blit glimpses of good footwork were afforded, and there were several instances of clever fielding and sound kicking. There was little difference between the teams on the run of the play, i’lie High School excelled in the forwards, their packing of the scrums and loose dribb’ing rustics being superior to that of the College, whose backs, however, in handling the ball and- kicking, reached a high standard considering the adverse conditions. Among the College backs, Robineon at full back, Lamer at five-eighths, and Stitt behind the scrum played well, while Bush at wing forward was always prominent. Of the School backs, Robertson at three-quarter, R. Park and Ingas at fiveeighths wore the pick, and of the forwards Malcolm, M’Ghie, Churchill, and Eaether were the best. Following were the teams. — Christ’s College: Full-back, Robinson; three-quarters, Parson, Pinchney, Tonks; five-eighths, G. Grigg, Lamer; half-back, Stitt; forwards, J. Origg, Harrison, Richards, Avcrill, Loudon. Clark, Hislop, Bush.

High School: Full-back, Blackley; threequarters, Robertson, L. Park, Jefcoatc; live-eighths, 11. Park, Inglis; half-back, Mitchell; forwards, Malcolm, Churchill, Scoullar, M'Ghio, iiasthcr, Lcwin, Kelmau, M'Lean.

Owing to the high wind blowing it was decided to play four quarters of 20 minutes each. The School kicked off against tho wind and tho driving rain. r ihe visitors attempted passing, but the game quickly settled down into a scramble. Ground gained was speedily lost, and as speedily recovered again by footwork. The School excelled in these tactics, and made one or two good rushes which tested the defence of tho College, whose backs, however, got out of trouble by sound kicking. A free kick to College forced tho School, and after tho kick-out play scrambled in midfield. Eventually Inglis' broke away and with a clever run placed the School in an attacking position, which was further improved by a centre kick. College cleared by good kicking amongst the backs, and tho visitors got down to the School lino, but could not got across. The School was packing well and carrying the scrums, vvhdst they were makjjjrr good play in the dribbling lushes, I his quarter was fairly even and no score was registered. The teams changed over immediately, and although College had the wind against them they quickly got into the School twenty-five, where Stitt feinted and passed out to Bush, tho College wing-for-ward scoring a try. Tho kick at goal failed, but from the dropout College started a passing rush among the backs, the greasy ball being handled surprisingly well. School countered the attack with a dribbling rush headed by Park, and M'Ghie made a good

opening to JelTccate, who took the pass well but was thrown out at the corner. Play swung in front of the College goal, but the visitors cleared with a good linekick. At half-time the score stood: College 3 points, School nil. The School opened the second spell with a good dribbling rush which swept the College back on defence, but it was no easy matter to hold the attacking position, a.nd a hard kick or a lucky speculator would upset all the recognised theories of attack. The School was showing good football and kept up a series of rushes Ihc local players were repeatedly in the visitors twenty-five, but the difficulty of nursing the gre-asv ball when near the line upset their chances of scoring. The School had the better of this quarter though no score resulted. When the teams changed over for the final quarter Richards (College) retired with an injury to his shoulder and was replaced by Mowatt. With the wind m their? favour it was anticipated that School woulcl equalise matters. They started oil well with a series of good rushes, which kept College busy on defence. The Co lege backs were fielding safely and making good use of the line with accurate kicking. Gradually College drove School out and then set un an attack which threatened danger. The School cleared, and play was scrambling in midfield. Just on time the School rallied and got down to the College line, but no score resulted and the game ended:— Christ’s College 3 points. High School Nil. Mr W. J. Wilson was referee.

OTAGO JUNIORS v. OAMARU JUNIORS. OAMARU. August 14. The Otago Junior Football team, which is journeying through to Christchurch, played a" match to-day against Oamaru Juniors and was defeated by 6 points to nil The game was played in mud and slush created bv the previous nighl s rain, but was all in favour of the local team. WELLINGTON DEFEATS MARLBOROUGH. WELLINGTON. August 17. The annual match between the Wellington and M-arlborough Rugby teams took place at the Athletic Park this afternoon and resulted in. Wohngton winning by 35 points to 5. WAIRARAPA v. MANAWATU. MASTERTON, August 17. The representative Rugby match, Wairarapa v. Manawatu, was played hero on Saturday in cold and showery weather. The playing conditions were unfavourable. The local team proved superior in all departments of the game, the forwards playinf exccpt : onai!v well. Tries were scored by Darvill and Ross (2). Sievers kicked a penalty goal and converted one try. The final score was: Wairarapa, 14 points; Manawatu, nil. JUNIOR REPRESENTATIVE MATCHES. CHRISTCHURCH, August 17. The annual junior representative game between Canterbury and Otago was played at Lancaster Park on Saturday in the presence of a fair attendance of spectators. The recent rain had left the ground in a greasy state, and thus the game was nor as fast as it would have been. Canterbury had the better of the first spell, their fast open play being very good. In the second spell Otago had all the advantage, both forwards and backs working well. iho game ended in a draw: Ca-uterbury, 9 points (three tries); Otago, 9 points (two tries and a penalty goal). DISQUALIFIED FOR LIFE. WELLINGTON, August 14. The Wellington Football Association has disqualified for life the officials, members, Management Committee, and secretary’ of the Corinthian Club, owing to the receipt of a letter from the club’s secretary which, while referring to the recent disqualification, thanked the association for breaking up the club, and “trusted that players would have the good sense to remove from the association committee those more capable of managing a circus than clean sport.” The association also decided not to grant transfers to the members of the Corinthian Club until every effort had been made to pay money owing to the association.