FOOTBALL

Otago Witness, Issue 3774, 13 July 1926, Page 51

FOOTBALL

RUGBY. FIRST TEST MATCH. ALL BLACKS*DEFEATED. SYDNEY, July 10. The weather was bright and crisp for the first test match between New Zealand and New South Wales, and the ground waa in excellent order. There was an attendance of 40,000. Both teams re* oeived rousing receptions on entering the field. New South Wales won the toss, and played from the north, with a slight wind and sun advantage. Following a penalty against the Blues the Blacks began to attack, and gained a good position, but the Blues’ defence proved sound. The Blues then retaliated with sharp attacks on the Blacks’ line, and plav for some time hovered in New Zealand quarters. Intercepting a loose pass by Porter, Bowers, with a great burst of speed, crossed at the corner, but lost possession of the ball over the line. An exchange of kicks be* tween Nicholls and Ross left pla* in midfield. Up to this stage the Blue forwards had been showing wonderful form. Offtide play by New Zealand gave Crossman a snot at goal, in which he failed, and, following a thrilling run by Elvy, the Blacks for the first time gained a position near the home line. From loose play Nicholls attempted a drop at goal, Ross finding the line well down with a return kick. Ross, the Blues’ full-back, was playing consistently and safe, and frequently relieved a * ungerous position by finding the line in good style. Out of a smart parsing rush Finlay son made a characteristic dash towards Ross, who proved equal to the occasion, bringing down the Auckland giant in brilliant fashion. Immediately afterwards M. Brownlee, gaining possession of the ball, ran well into- position, and transferred to Porter, who scored. Nicholls narrowly missed with the kick. 3 nil. . The Blues retaliated, Crossman making a wonderful run, and being pushed out within inches of the Blacks. line. Five minutes later a smart passing rush saw Sheehan in possession. He beautifully dummied his way through and scored under the posts, but Crossman made a lamentable attempt to convert. 3—3. An offside infringement in front ot the goal gave Nicholls an opportunity of adding three points to the Blacks score, in •which he succeeded, fi—3. . , Splendid combined play by the eight Black backs almost put Elvy over, but Crossman’s speed enabled him to haul a Black attacker down. At this stage both sides were playing brilliantly, and the pace was gradually increasing, lhe Blues now developed a fine, attractive passing rush, in which King finally passed to Bowers, who dashed over and scored, Ross making a good but unsuccessful attempt to goal. 6 —6. .. , . The Blues again rushed the ball to the Blacks’ line, and from a scramble the referee awarded a force-down. Porter was offside twice in succession, and on the second occasion immediately in front of the posts, where Ross kicked a goal, giving New South Wales the lead amid intense excitement. 9 —6. Almost on half-time Crossman, who was playing a magnificent game, nearly crossed the Blacks’ line, but put a foot outside, and the snell ended with the Blacks attack’ng' New South Wales .. 9 points. New Zealand .. • • 6 points. Immediately on resuming. Porter was caught offside running round the scrum, and Ross, from 40 yards out, placed a magnificent goal. 12—6. . The Blacks now began attacking vigorously, but Ross marked oil his own line, and brought relief. < Sheehan and King were next prominent in runs which placed the New Zealand line in danger, but the forwards saved the situation. Bowers then made an opening for New South Wales. The ball was passed to Towers, to Ford, then to Crossman, who scored in a good position, and Ross converted. 17—6. Bad handling by the Black backs left the Blues in an attacking position, and from a forward rush Woods broke away and passed to Thorne, who transferred to Ford, the last-named dashing over. Ross failed to convert. 20 —6. At this stage play was exhilarating. The Black forwards got away, but with a magnificent left-foot kick Ross found the line past half-way. The Blacks now made a titanic effort, and Finlayson, Porter, and Stewart carried play to the line, but a forward pass stopped their onward career. Another attack then followed, Stewart forcing his way over at the corner. Nicholls missed the kick at goal. 20—9. After 20 minute' - play Elvy was prominent in a brilliant run, and took the ball into the Blues’ territory, where a penalty award enabled Nicholls to kick a goal. 20—12. Much hard, willing forward play and close rucking ensued in midfield, where Fox was temporarily injured. Following a gqod New Zealand passing rush—the best "of its kind —Blake gained much ground. Ross and Dailey then exchanged kicks, the ball going out in New Zealand quarters. The Blacks were adjudged offside round the scrum, which gave Ross a chance in midfield, and he succeeded in placing another goal with a magnificent kick. 23—12. , _ f With 10 minutes to go the Black vanguard, led by Finlayson and M. Brownlie, made great efforts to retrieve the situation. Finlayson almost scored, but the Blues forced down. A splendid individual effort by Lomas and good footwork resulted in his diving over the line and scoring at the corner. Nicholls failed to add tne major points. 23—15. A good -ffort ’ y the Blacks resulted in Porter catching Ross on the latter’s line, the position being saved for the Blues by the ball rolling into touch. From a scramble on the line C. Brownlie forced his way over and scored, and Nicholls succeeded with a splendid kick. 23 —20. Play continued at a tremendous pace, and as the result of superb work by Elvy, M. Brownlie, and Cooke the lastnamed almost scored, but pasted from the ground and so saved the home tide. Offside play by Porter resulted in Rost kicking the ball out close to New Zealand s line. From the llue-out Meagher marked off a knock-on, and kicked a brilliant goal, time being called a few minutes later. New South Wales 26 points. . • Nsw Zealand .. »• 20 points.

VISITORS PENALISED. ~*DNEY, July 11. The result created a profound sensation, exceeding the most sanguine expectations. The off-side proclivities of the visitors cost them a successful issue. Nevertheless, the home side practically outplayed them in the second spell # and rose in brilliancy in crescendo fashion, both sides giving a dazzling exhibition. Increased Black efficiency was met by improved Blue defence, particularly in tackling. The result remained in doubt almost to the close of the game. Cohesion in the Blacks’ back division was somewhat below par until too late, whilst the Blues’ passing was consistently accurate, though inclined to be lateral. Ross was the hero of the match. Brown served well as full-back for the Blacks, while Cooke, Elvy, and Nicholls were the best of the backs. Of the vanguard, Lomas, Finlayson, M. Brownlie, Stewart, and Porter, apart from overeagerness, played most serviceably throughout. The Blacks were penalised eight .iraes in the first spell and the Blues four times. In the second spell both sides’ penalties were almost equal. The Blues gained quite 60 per cent, of possession in the scrums and about equal from the line-outs. The game was contested throughout in excellent spirit. The Blacks’ play was conceded by experts to be below expectations and their reputation, but the game throughout was fully up to international standard.

SATURDAY’S MATCHES.

UNIVERSITY A DEFEAT KAIKORAI. The Rugby Union first grade competition was continued on Saturday in dull, but _ fine, weather. University A, by defeating Kaikorai by 25 points to 22, maintained a lead of four points in the championship contest. Pirates avenged their defeat m the first round by beating University B by 16 points to thiee. RESULTS OF MATCHES. The day’s games resulted as follows: University A ... 25 Kaikorai 22 Pirates 16 University B ... 3 Alhambra 3 Southern 0 Zingari 13 Dunedin 11 Taieri Rovers ... 10 Union 0 POSITION OF TEAMS. The following table shows the positions of the teams engaged in the first grade tvwnnntit inn •

UNIVERSITY A v. KAIKORAI. University A met Kaikorai at Carisbrook on Saturday before about 8000 people. The ground was in good order, and there was not a breath of wind. The spectators were treated to a hard-fought game, won by the students by the faster and cleverer play of their backs. Callender put up a fine placekicking performance, kicking three penalty goals and two goals from tries, scoring no fewer than 13 points out of the 21 points registered by his side. Kaikorai had 14 men during a greater part of the game, M‘Meeking being ordered off in the first spell. University played from the railway end, and the Kaikorai forwards at once attacked, Callender running through, but his pass was knocked on. A scrum was formed in front of the Blues’ goal posts, and the hill men strove hard to push home the attack, but the passing of their backs lacked finish. Play swung back to the centre from a freekick by Diack, and fumbling by Knight, the Kaikorai second five-eighth, was followed by Martin leading a Blue forward rush. Twice the passing of the Blue backs broke down, and then Perry dribbled through to Lindsay, the Blues’ full-back. Then play went back to midfield, where Hanan got the ball from the end of passing, but was pushed- out by Brown. The play swung across to the other wing, where Fountain was soundly tackled by Webb, and then the Blues joine up in a pretty piece of passing. Holden got the ball from a scrum near the centre, and whipped it out to Mitchell. Pacey, Diack, and Hanan handled in turn, and Hanan cleverly side-stepped Browu and scored a good try. Diack kicked the goal. 5-0. The reverse was followed by a great rush of Kaikorai forwards, Dow and Hicks in the lead. Webb failed to field a high kick, and the next moment was overwhelmed, and, the students coming back fast to his assistance, in their anxiety got off-side, and Callander kicked a penalty goal. 5—3. Holden, who played a very fine game from start to finish, sent the ball out to Mitchell, ori the blind side. Mitchell threw infield as he was collared, and Hendra just failed to gather in the ball for a sure score. Holden again fed his backs, and the ball went out to Diack. He passed to Hanan, who sent infield to the Blue centre, Diack going across in the arms of Brown and Slaughter. The ball bounced out of his arms as he fell, but Pacey was handy, and scored. Diack missed the goal kick. B—3. The Blue forwards were holding their own against the stalwart hill pack, and were getting their share of the ball. Once more Holden flashed the ball out, Mitchell, Pacey, and Diack coming into the movement, and the last-named fooling the opposition and bolting over to score. Diack missed the goal kick. 11—3. The Colours’ forwards, led by T. Sonntag, carried play to the Blues' twenty-five, where a scrum was formed. Batchelor, wing-forward, put in the ball, and the whistle went at the same time for it not being put in straight between tho frontrankers. Callander kicked another penalty goal. 11—6. Bound play by Lalng put Kaikorai in position, Lindsay marking a high kick beautifully. An exchange of high kicks favoured Kaikorai, and a scrum was formed near the Bine goal poets. The Kaikorai back swung into action from a pass by Swift, but Knight handled badly, and the effort broke down. A'hard kick by Callander forced the Blue*. The Kaikorai backs were now throwing the ball

about, but there was no system in their attack. Fountain made a great dash along the left wing, going down to a tackle by Hanan (who had raced across field) and Lindsay. A scrum was formed, and then M’Meeking (Kaikorai front-ranker) waa ordered off, and Davey was carried off, Hiakens taking his place. Kaikorai kept up the pressure, and at last Perry bustled his way across. Callander missed the goal kick. 1! —9. Just before half-time Lindsay again fielded the ball in the air in great style, and Callander forced the Blues with a hard kick. 11—9.

The Blues got to work at once on resuming. A scrum was formed at the centre, and Holden sent out to Mitchell, to Pacey, who cut in and went straight through to Brown, giving Diack a clear run in. Diack kicked a goal. 16—9. The Kaikorai responded at once. Hicks broke through tight work in the Blues* twenty-five, and dribbled past Holden, and over the line, where he fell on the ball just before two or three Blue men could get to it, scoring a well-deserved try. Callander goaled. 16—14. The game had only been in progress a few minutes. Give-and-take play followed, and Diack placed a fine penalty goal from well out in front of the posts. 19 —14. Forward play in midfield followed, Martin and Dunne showing up for the Blues and C. Gonntag and Glengarry battling hard for Kaikorai, who, of course, had only 14 men. Once again Holden smartly sent out to Mitchell, who dashed along the side of the scrum and gave Diack a bad pass. The Blue centre took the ball in his stride, and handed on to Hanan, who dashed over at the left corner. Diack missed the goal kick. 22—14. The Blue backs came again, and their forwards, for whom Handra, Dunne, and Henderson were battling hard, were more than holding the opposing pack. At last C. Sonntag led a great forward rush, Laing carrying on the movement. Knight cut into Blue passing, and dribbled to Lindsay, who saved well. Fountain potted without success, and Lindsay forced. From the kick-out Callander placed a penalty from well out. 22—17. Wilkinson led Kaikorai forwards to the Blues’ twenty-five, Diack relieving with a free kick. Perry and Callander joined in a clever bit of passing, Callander then punting to Lindsay, who returned well. Both sides eased off a bit, and a hard kick by Callander caused the Blues to force again. The Kaikorai forwards then started a desperate attack, but their backs were letting them down by slow, lob passing. Callander kicked a hard grubber, and the Blues were hard pu. to it to save a score, Hanan shifting play back with a run along the left wing. A scrum was formed at the Kaikorai twenty-five, and Mitchell got the ball on the blind side from Holden, and cut trickily through the defence. Diack kicked a goal. 25—17. In the last stages of the game it looked as if Kaikorai might even up the score. Callander, Laing, and Slaughter joined m a short passing bout,-the last-named scoring, and Callander kicking a fine goal. 25—22. Hanan was injured, and was replaced by Ross. The Kaikorai forwards again surged to the attack. Along came the ball through the backs from Swift, but Lindsay brought Fountain down when he was near the line. Callander made an attempt to go over in a solo dash, and the hill forwards struggled manfully to get a last score. It was not to be, and the game had slipped back to half-way as the final bell rang. University A 25 points. Kaikorai 22 points. Mr J. Sutherland was referee. PIRATES v. UNIVERSITY B. The match between Pirates and University B was played at Carisbrook, play commencing at 1.30. Pirates won by 16 points to three. The game was fast, and included plenty of back play. From the kick-off play was even until Pirates secured three tries in quick succession, giving them a lead of 13 points. For the remainder of the game the Blacks’ forwards held the advantage, but the University backs had to be closely watched, though they lost several chances. Pirates kicked off towards the pavilion. Play continued for a few minutes on the University side of half-way, where Mathieson threw forward in a passing rush. Miller got away on his own, and the Blues attacked in the Pirates’ twenty-five. The Blue 3 attempted passing, but Miller was collared with the ball. Good work by Bibby had the Blacks in danger again, but a free kick brought relief. Mallock headed a Pirates forward rush, which took play to line, the Blues forced. Morgan made a fine dash down the wing until the twenty-five was reached. A free kick regained the lost ground, but the Pirates’ forwards again rushed play into the twenty-five. The Blacks joined in passing again, but Robinson threw forward. Give-and-take play followed until Pirates started passing again in the twentyfive, Wise being well grassed by Bibby. From the ensuing play Nicholson relieved well. At length Graham secured at the twenty-five and passed to Wise, who transferred to Graham again, the five-eighth sending the ball to Milne, who dashed across to score. Robinson’s kick failed. Pirates 3, University B nil. Pirates conv tinued to attack, and from a scrum at the twenty-five St. George sent out Morgan, who beat the wing three-quarter and went over in a tackle to score. Waker kicked a fine goal. Pirates 8, University nil. Only a few seconds afterwards St. George passed to Wise, to Burton, to Morgan, who ran round the full-back and scored. Robinson converted. Pirates 13, University nil. University took a turn at attack, and the hall passed in the Blacks’ twentyfive from M'Lean, to Horsley, to Mathieson, to Bibby, but th wing failed to take the ball. Pirates came away in another sudden effort, and Morgan was collared by M’Clymont with almost a clear field ahead of him. Robinson took a reverse pass from Morgan, and was in the twentyfive when Nicholson secured and saved well. Pausing among the Blues resulted in Bibby getting away on his own, but he failed narrowly to pass Walker. The Blacks kept play in University territory for some time, the Blues attacking efforts breaking down. Wise went off injured, and Allan took his nlaoe on the wing. Mauls broke away on nis own, and passed to Mallook, but the Blacks were pulled up b% a free kick. Bolid tackling by the Bines prevented Crawshaw and Miller in turn from getting away. Good work by Bibby eventually gained the Blues twenjbyflve yards. 'Several attempts at passmg

by the Blues broke down. The snell ended with the scores: Pirates 13, University B nil. Scrambling play followed the kick-off in the second spell, the Pirates’ forwards pressing through to the twenty-five. St. George sent to Morgan on the blind side, but he failed to take the bail. Scrummaging in front of the posts followed, but the Blue forwards took the ball to half-way in a rush started by Christie. The Blues kept up the pressure, and before long were in the Blacks’ twenty-five. The Blacks worked their way back, however, and following a speculation the ball went out at the other twenty-five. A line kick by Nicholson saw the ball go out at half-way, a high kick and a smart run by Bibby gained more ground. The Blues held their advantage until St. George broke away and kicked to half-way. Passing by the Blues left Walker in difficulties, but Burton secured and kicked out. A mark by Rodger took the Blacks to half-day again, but Bibby gained most of the lost ground with a kick to the line. Following a forward rush headed by Milne the ball went out in the Blues’ twenty-five. Pirates made desperate efforts to cross. Milne broke away on his own, but threw the hall away when collarf-1, Mathieson securing and running to half-way before passing to M'Clymont. The ball went out Inside the Blacks’ twenty-five. Following heady play by Bibby the Blues were several times within an ace of scoring, O’Regan and Christie being brought down inches from the line. The Blues kept on the offensive, and play became exciting. Horsley, from a scrum, sent to Wells, who battled his way over. Nicholson failed with the kick. Pirates 13. University 3. A break away by Christie gave the Blues the territorial advantage again. The Blues twice initiated passing, but Robinson kicked out. A line kick by St. George gained the Blacks further ground. St. George set his backs in motion in the twenty-five, but solid tackling kept them out. From a scrum on the twenty-five yards’ line St. George sent to Morgan, who evaded Nicholson’s tackle and scrambled across on his knees to score. Walker failed to convert. Pirates 16, University 3. Malloch headed a Pirates’ forward rush, but the Blues worked their way back. Morgan got away on the wing, but dropped the ball when tackled. St. George carried on with the ball at his toes, but Bibby rushed in and dropped on the ball. The ball went out to Allan, who was well tackled by Nicholson. The game ended with the Blacks in University’s twenty-five. The final scores were:— Pirates 16 University B 3 Mr G. M'Keuzie was the referee. ALHAMBRA v. SOUTHERN. The match between Alhambra and Southern, which was played on Tahuna No. 1 Ground, provided a faster and more open game than was anticipated. The Alhambra backs opened the game out, and were responsible for one or two flashing movements. The weight was against Southern, who, however, put up a good fight, their defence being particularly good. Southern kicked off from the St. Kilda end, and solid work by the Alhambra forwards immediately saw play centre in the Black and Whites’ twenty-five till Prebble set his backs in motion and transferred §lay to the other end of the field. The outhern vanguard now took charge and for a time had the Reds defending vigorously. Offside play by Lewis, however, gave Alhambra a penalty, which brought a momentary relief Southern continued to press, and had the Reds penned in their own twenty-five till Callander cleared with a good kick. Judd picked up and made a bold bid for the line, but was brought down on the twenty-five, and, thus encouraged, the Southern backs began to throw the ball about a dangerous rush, in which Judge, M’Kearrow, and Mattingly were prominent, broke down on the line. Headed by Knox, the Alhambra forwards broke away, but a vigorous counter-attack by Southern saw play again hovering round the Reds’ twenty-five. Callander picked up and handed to Coates, who dashed down the line only to go out on the corner. Neipier cleared nicely from the but Callander again secured and cut in. He passed to Buchanan, who fumbled badly, ana what looked like a certain try was spoiled. For the next five minutes, Alhambra attacked vigorously, and had their opponents on the defensive. A scrum on the line saw Callander break away and initiate a nice passing movement, which was marred by fumbling. A determined onslaught on Alhambra's goal line by the Southern forwards followed, but Wyllie obtained "'possession from a rush and whipped out to Callander, who took the ball to midfield before being brought down. The Red vanguard carried on tne movement, and a vigorous sortie on the Black and Whites’ goal was broken up by sound defensive play on the part of Neipier. Several nippy back rushes by Alhambra looked promising, but although these attacks began promisingly, the finish off was disappointing. From a ruck on the twenty-five, Wyllie sent out to Buchanan, who streaked down the line, only to be brought down by Peterson. From the return, Buchanan again picked up and dived across. Callander failed to convert. Alhambra 3. Southern nil. Southern now assumed the offensive, and at the call of half-time Alhambra were defending. Alhambra opened the second spell with a forward rush which broke down in the Black and Whites’ twenty-five, but Coates picked up and streaked down the lino and centred. The ball went over, and a force down resulted. Peterson got away and took the ball to half-way before being collared and a speedy Southern lorward rush drove the Reds back into their own twenty-five. Here a tussle ensued till King cleared with a good kick. Southern continued to press for the ensuing 10 minutes with the game all in their favour, fee v era I desperate attempts to break through were made, but Alhambra were defending stubbornly. Judge nearly got across, but a force down resulted, and the kick afforded a temporary relief for the Reds. Southern came again, but were driven back to midfield, where, from a scrum, Peterson secured and narrowly missed getting across. Play now oentred among the forwards, and the Southern pack for a time dominated the situation. Again and again they overran their opponents, the pressure on Alhambra’s line was only relieved by a good run by Buchanan, who centred. At this period Peterson retired injured, his place being taken by G. Lewis. Play now Became willing and counter attack followed attack till the Red pack with the ball at their toes rushed their opponents into their twenty-five, where a dashing attempt by Coates failed at the oomer flag. From a tussle in front of Southern’s goal King whipped in and got across but was penalised. Play now veered to the Red’s terri-

tory, but Glengarry hroke away and led the Alhambra pack back to their opponents’ end of the field, where the call of time saw Southern on the defensive, with the scores standing: Alhambra 3 points Southern Nil Mr R. Connor controlled the game. DUNEDIN v. ZINGARI- RICHMOND. When Zingari-Riehmond lined up to play Dunedin at Tahuna Park it was a badly weakened side, five of the team being laid aside with influenza. The Colours, however, managed to pull the match out ol the fire in the final stages of the game. The Blues kicked off, and followed the bail well down the field, where play remained for some minutes. Zingari were defending solidly, but they made little headway for some time. Then a Colours mats got away with the ball at his toes, but the effort was brought to nothing by Hayes, who saved the position for the Blues. The Dunedin forwards again pressed and soon had the Colours on the defensive once mere. Collett led the Blues n a fierce rush, but the Colours turned the tables only to be repulsed again by the Dunedin forwards, who transferred play to Zingari territory, where the Colours wer e compelled to force down. A few minutes later Heazlewood found an opening and dashed through and all but scored. From an ensuing scrum the Blues cleared. Brookes (Zingari) took a smart mark, but the kick at goal failed. The Colours had another opportunity when a Dunedin player was penalised for lying on the ball, but Heazlewood’s kick went astray. Shortly afterwards, with the Blues’ hammering away at the Colours’ line Williams picked up the ball smartly, and, with a short run, relieved the situation for Zingari. Butler got the ball, but did not < get far before he was collared, his lob pass was intercepted bv Heazlewood, who scored an easy try, which he failed to convert. Zingari-Riehmond 3 Dunedin nil. Half time was called soon afterwards. The Becond spell commenced with more pressing by the Blues forwards. Baker and Collett, in the forwards, were working hard. Butler missed a kick at goal from a mark. M'Naughton (Zingari) was an absentee when play was resumed, an injury to his shoulder making further play impossible. Cullen got over from a Blue rush, but Butler could not add the extra points. Zingari 3, Dunedin 3. Butler followed suit almost immediately, and scored another try for the Blues, which Butler converted. Dunedin 8, Zingari 3. The game now livened up considerably, and play became more open. Butler ngain found the uprights from a free kick. Dunedin 11, Zingari 3. Dunedin’s forward play seemed to be wearing the Colours’ powers of defence down. Zingari rallied, and from a loose c oramble n*ar the line M'Nattv w nt over. Heazlewood converted. Dunedin 11, Zin- , gari 8. With only a few minutes to go Dnnedln had a three-point lead, but the Colour* kept pressing, the latest score having put more vim into their attack. Moore got over, and Heazlewood again converted. The whistle sounded almost Immediately with the scores: Zingari-Riehmond .. 13 points Dunedin .. 11 points Mr I. Grant was tfie referee. TAIERI ROVERS v. UNION. The game opened quietly enough. Play hung in midfield for a few minutes until the visitors swept down into the Taieri twenty-five. The home team broke away again, and the ball see-sawed up and down in a casual sort of way, until Bathgate (Taieri’s first five-eighth) got away and passed to Sligo, who was collared on the ' line just before he could get over. A scrum five yards out relieved the situation foi Union, who found themselves defending their line from a persistent onslaught. From half-way W. Bathgate gained possession, and after a spectacular sprint up the field sent out to Taverner, who completed the manoeuvre, scoring between the posts. W. Bathgate converted. That was th* only score during that spell, and the gam* relapsed once more into a series of futile rushes and bad passing movements. Union attacked on the resumption, but could not hold their ground, and their territory was gradually encroached upon by their opponents, who were only prevented from scoring by bad passing. Thei game certainly did not improve in style. For about 20 minutes Union held the upper hand until finally the Taieri pack wore down the opposition and planted themselves in the Union twenty-five. Repeated efforts were made to score, but the rushes always broke down at the critical moment. Many a good chance was lost by a fumble or a bad pass, while Union’s attempts to break away seemed only half-hearted. The Rovers had another chance just before time. W. Bathgate gathered the ball In smartly, and cut through several opponents, finally passing to Sligo, who made no mistake. Bathgate converted, and the whistle was sounded Immediately after, with the scores Taieri Rovers 10 Union Nil. Mr R. Torrance was the referee. SCHOOLS’ TRIAL MATCH. The following have been selected to take part in a trial match at the Oval on Wednesday, at 3.15 p.m.:— A Team: Barrow, Brien. White, Cope* Leader, Rae, Burgess, Wilkie, Garner* Ovens, Howison, M'Lean, Crawford, Butler, Litolff. B Team: Cranston, Turnbull, Watkins, Richards, Hart, Bartlett, Trevath&n* Stevens, Coughlan, Niven, Campbell, Steele, Ogg, Warren, Ritchie. Emergencies: Blair, Manning, Bollard, • Robertson, Johnston, Martin, Mowat* Stuart, Stewaut, Falconer, Shaw. SECONDARY SCHOOLS' MATCHES. OTAGO v. WAITAKI. OAMARU, July T. The annual Rugby football matches between the Waitaki Boys’ High School and the Otago Boys* High School were played on the Show Grounds to-day. the homo team narrowly winning both matches. There was a large attendance. SENIOR MATCH. The result of the senior game was hi doubt all through. Waitaki winning hy 12 points to 11 with a penalty goal in the last minute of the game. Waitaki won the toss and elected to play against the sun. The Blacks (Wai*

t&ki) carried the ball from kick-off into Otago territory Otago relieved to the line. An exchange of kicks followed. Hubbard finding the line well down. Hubbard again secured, and breaking away, opened Waitaki’s score by crossing at the corner. Carrington failed to convert. On resumption, Otacro broke away, the visitors’ forwards takinf the ball into Wai taki territory. From a line-out Ross broke away but lost the ball. From the halfway line Macassey placed Otago in an attacking position, with a smart sprint. Waitaki was penalised in a dangerous posi tion. and Priest kicked a penalty goal The Blacks pushed hard from the kickoff. Francis secured from a scrum but fumbled. Otago broke away, Ross relieving to the line. A scrum in Waitaki territory saw Otago institute a passing rush, but the defence was sound. Trochon gathered m and ran across the field but was well tackled by Trotter. The Blacks were penalised again but Priest failed with the kick. Usher secured from a scrum. The Otago pack worked the ball across Waitaki’s line, but Waitaki forced. A great kick by Carrington gave the Blacks a decided advantage. With Otago pressing, Francis found the line well down. Houston broke away, but his effort was smothered. The ball was taken into neutral territory. A forward pass by Otago saved Waitaki in a tight position. From a line out Ross short-punted, and followed up smartly. From a ruck Francis secured and passed to Hubbard, who short-punted into Otago territory Priest relieved to the line. Following some good w r ork bv the Otago forwards, Carrington mulled the ball, and Dove knocked-on. The ball was carried across the field, Macassey effecting a good mark for Otago, and his kick at goal was successful. An exchange of kicks ended in the ball going out close to Otago’s line. A counterattack by Otago broke down. Priest took a ni irk and ran across the field, transferring to Usher, but the latter's pass went astray. Francis was again responsible for c ome pretty work sending the ball to Houston, who was well tackled. A good passing movement by Otago was spoiled by Dove fumbling. An attack by Otago saw Usher send to Caradus, who trans ferred to Manuel, the last-named scoring between the posts. Priest converted. Halftime sounded soon after, the scores being: On resumption, Waitaki took play into Otago territory. From a line-out the Blacks instituted a good passing rush, Hubbard scoring at the corner. Carrington failed to convert. The Blacks were penalised, but Priest’s kick failed. Otago again attacked, but a force-down resulted. Otago were penalised in front of the posts, Francis’s kick being successful. Another good passing rush by the Blacks saw Hubbard nearly over. A kick across the field was marked by Priest. From a line-out the Blacks instituted a passing rush, but failed to break through. From a ruck Hubbard broke away, but was penalised on the line. Francis attempted a pot, but the ball fell short. Carrington fumbled the ball, but recovered it, sending out near the corner flag. From a line-out, a passing rush was instituted by the Blacks, but Itoss fumbled. Waitaki continued to keep the visitors on the defence. Otago forwards carried the ball at their feet into the Blacks’ territory for the first time in this spell. A forward attack, headed by Aitken and Abel, was relieved by Ross Waitaki agaiA became aggressive, and following a scrum Otago was penalised for lying on the ball, and Francis kicked a goal. The whistle Bounded with the scores:— Waitaki 12 points Otago 11 points Mr R. J. Hinkley was referee. JUNIOR MATCH. The junior match was very spectacular, Waitaki winning by 22 points to 20. Both teams played fine football. TE AUTE DEFEATS WANGANUI?" WANGANUI, July 7. The annual Rugby match between Te Aute College and Wanganui Collegiate School was played to-day under good conditions. Superior backs gave Te Aute a win by 18 points to 8. At half-time the score was 18 to nil, but in the secc«d spell the Wanganui forwards took commahd. The scorers for Te Aute were: Turei r (2) and Haig. Potaka converted a try and kicked a penalty goal, while Turei, who was the most brilliant player on the field, potted a good goal from two yards inside half-way. r Tries were scored for Wanganui by Methel and Ellingham, Bunny converting one try. The junior match was won b>r Wanganui by 14 points to 8, after a spirited game. CHRISTCHURCH SECONDARY SCHOOLS’ GAME. CHRISTCHURCH, July 7. The Boys’ High School defeated Christ’s College in their annual Rugrby matoh today by 11 points to 6. For the School tries were gained by Merritt (two) and Billcliff (ono). TARANAKI v. HAWKE’S BAY HAWERA, July 7. Playing in fine weather before an attendance of 6000, the Taranaki Rugby fifteen defeated Hawke’s Bay by 5 points to 3 points. A willing game was dominated mainly by the Taranaki forwards. The majority of the Hawke’s Bay’s usual players Were unable to make the trip, the team being practically a B combination. Gemmell, Mahoney, Wylie (forwards), and Grenaido, L. Johnson, Mardon (backs) were the only players from the usual representative side, while five of the remainder made their first representative appearance. With the advantage of the wind, Hawke’s Bay opened the first spoil with dashing attacks, a passing bout by L. Johnson and Grenside finishing in a try by M'Donald. The goal-kick failed. The Bay backs, who were taking advantage of the wind, controlled the play for half the spell, the homo forwards retaliating by keeping the ball close, and narrowly tailing to score on several occndons. In the second spell the Taranaki forwards forced the pace, dominating the first # 2O minutes, f.yriskey followed a ground kick, and Bourke went across for a try. which was converted, making the scores: Taranaki 6 points, Hawke’s Bay 3 points. During the concluding stages the Hawke’s Bay rearguard plaved brilliantly, but was unable to score, the sure tackling of the Taranaki backs keeping them out.

"vtAIRARAPA DEFEATS BUSH. PAHIATUA, July 7. Wftirarapa defeated Bush by 21 points to 14 in a hard-fought tussle. Wairarapa led by 10 points to 6 at half-time, but Bush got to the front, holding the advantage till near the end, when Parker scored a brilliant solo try, saving the day for Wairarapa. An equal number of tries were scored by both teams, bus Fuller's kicking made seven points difference. The Wairarapa backs were superior, but the Bush forwards were more dashing. Tries for Wairarapa were scored by R. Booth, G. Booth, Duff, and Parker. Fuller converted three and kicked a penalty goal. For Bush, Harvey (2), Woolland, and Graham scored, and Udy converted one try. Wairarapa were without the services of Donald and Harvey, and six of the regular team for Bush were suffering from injuries received in the recent match against Taranaki. MAORI TEAM’S TOUR. GISBORNE. July 10. A. F. Matthews, the Gisborne forward, who was selected in the Maori team to tour France and England, finds it impossible to make arrangements for the tour, and has withdrawn from the team. W. Wilson, of Wairoa, Hawke’s Bay, has been chosen to take Matthews’s place. NELSON VERSUS MARLBOROUGH. BLENHEIM, July 10. Nelson defeated Marlborough by 13 points to 11 in the second home-and-hoine match of the season, the visitors turning the tables on the shield province. The Marlborough forwards, on the whole, excelled the visitors, but their combination was ragged. The Nelson backs, particularly Snodgrass and Wallace, found the weakness in the defence. Snodgrass scored two tries and converted one. Wallace made an opening, which let Bowers in, Reed converting. For Marlborough, L. O’Brien scored two penalties and converted a try by Gill. BULLER DEFEATS WEST COAST. WESTPORT, July 10. In the first of the home-and-home Rugby matches of the season, played at Victoria Square to-day, Buller defeated West Coast by 17 points to 14. The game was keenly contested all the way in the first spell, in a forward rush M'Nabb scored for Buli ler, Later the All Blacks, Steel, scored for West Coast, Nelson goaling, thus levelling the scores. In a passing rush from M‘Leary to Nelson to Steel, saw Steel away for another score, the try being unconverted. West Coast 8, Buller 5. Watson broke away, and in a rebound off Goodall, Griffiths gathered and scored a try, which was not converted. Passing by Griffiths, Davis, and Caldwell enabled Caldwell to score an unconverted try Buller 11, West Coast 8. In the second spell passing between Watson, Griffiths, Davis resulted in the latter scoring. In a further passing rush between Watson, Griffiths, and O’Brien, the last-named scored. Buller 17, West Coast 8. M'Leary, Thomas, and Steel instituted a rush, and the All Black tcored hi third try. M'Leary, who worked the blind side in a scrum, got well away, and passed to Reynolds, who scored an unconverted try. The game continued to be very keen, with the issue in doubt until the finish, Buller winning by a narrow margin. The* final score was: Buller 17 points. West Coast 14 points. For West Coast, Steel played right up to his top form. Kinloch, Goodall, and Thomas (backs) and Freitas, Hahn, Jameson, and Doherty (forwards) were also very prominent. For Buller, Watson, Davis, and Griffiths (backs) and Tunnicliffe, M'Neight, O’Neill, and Caldwell were the outstanding players. HASTINGS. HASTINGS, July 10. Hastings 23 points, M.A.C. 9 points. GAMES IN WANGANUI. WANGANUI, July 10. The influenza epidemic did not interfere actually with Rugby to-day, each competing team being able to field almost their best sides. Marists, who have been considerably strengthened during the past few weeks, and who have been playing consistently, came a crash on their second encounter with the Technical Old Boys, the latter winning by 15 points to nil. Kaierau had an easy win over Ratana by 14 points to 5. Wanganui Old Boys, who had a lead over Pirates by 8 points in the first half, fell badly in the second half, the game ending:—Pirates 14 points. Old Boys 8 points. AUCKLAND COMPETITIONS. AUCKLAND. July 10. The following are the results of Rugby football matches played on Saturday:— Ponsonby 15 points, College Rifles 9 points. University 10 points, Marists 5 points. Grammar Old Boys 14 points, Grafton 11 points. MATCHES. WELLINGTON, July 10. Poneke 14, Athletic 11. y Oriental 8, Old Boys 6. Marist 12, Petonc 10. Hutt 13, Berhampore 10. Selwyn 6, Wellington 5. CRISTCHURCH GAMES. CHRISTCHURCH, July 10. Merivale 12, Old Boys 3. Christchurch 45, Linwood nil. Albion 9, University 6. INVERCARGILL. INVERCARGILL, July 10. Invercargill 17, Pirates 3. Star 12, Southern nil. BUSH COMPETITION. PAHIATUA, July 10. Konini 16, Hamua 9. Pahiatua 15, Mangatainoka 3. EXAMPLE OF THE ALL BLACKS. English Field concludes a leading article on the Rugby season as follows:—Apart from the international matches, can we say that the season has been entirely satisfactory? There have been very few signs that

the stimulating example of the value of originality and enterprise set by the New Zealanders last year has had much effect on our players, unless it be that forwards have become more precocious than ever and do rather less of honest shoving m the scrummages. Match after match this season has been rendered disappointing by what may be termed generally “scrambling” play, due partly to unenterprising or faulty back play and partly to this increasing activity of forwards. The wingforward has come in for a good deal of severe criticism from many prominent players and authorities, and it has been suggested that legislative measures should be taken to curb his depredations among the backs. Cricketers may see in this a parallel to the spasmodic agitation for an alteration of the leg-before-wicket law on the ground that it imposes an undue hardship on the bowler. Just as this agitation has generally coincided with a period when batting in general has been better than bowling, so in Rugby football the simple truth is that for the time being forward play seems to have become more virile than back piay INJURED NEW SOUTH WALES PLAYERS. SYDNEY, July 5. Owing to injuries, Foote, Shaw, Law ton, and Morrissey are unable to train to meet the All Blacks. It is doubtful if Wallace will be fit. O. Crossman, E. Ford, M. Hesslein, and W Sheehan have been selected to fiil the vacancies. The trainees are now in quarters at Clovelly. EASTERN DISTRICT MATCHES. The football on July 3 provided two very interesting and closelv-coutested games, both played on the Palmerston ground. The match between Dunback and Shag Point, which was to tjave been played on the Shag Point ground, could not be played there, the ground leing too wet. The first game of the afternoon was between Seacliff and Palmerston, the former team winning by 5 points to 3. Mr Kennedy refereed. Shag Point and Dunback followed, and for the first time this season Dunback failed to register a win, the score being 3 all (an unconverted try each). Mr Cameron was the referee. NOTES. Dailey, the captain of the South Island team, won the toss, and then decided to play against the sun and wind in the first 6pell! Congratulations to "Jack” Stewart, the Palmerston player, who has been included in the Maori team to go Home. Stewart toured the Otago Goldfields and the West Coast with an Otago representative team, and proved himself a sound forward. Reports from Palmerston state that he is playing better than ever this season. The sympathy of all followers of the game will go out to the University player, Cabot, who had his collarbone broken in the match against Zingari-Richmond. Cabot is one of the most enthusiastic footballers in Dunedin, and apart from the enforced absence from his daily vocation, it will be particularly irksome for him to have to Btand on the bank. There have been 53 reinstatements in League Rugby in Auckland this season—a record. Since the war 17 international games have been played between New Zealand and New South Wales. Of these, New Zealand has won 13 and New South Wales 4. The most disastrous year for the Dominion in these games was 1922, when New South Wales won two out of three tests for the first time in history. With two more series of games to be played before the first round in Wellington is completed, the senior A championship points are as follow:—Athletic 16, Petone 12, University 12, Oriental 9, Berhampore 8, Old Boys 8, Marist 8, Poneke 8, Wellington 5, Selwyn 2, Hutt 2. The championhip points in the B grade as now as follow: —Eastbourne 15, Porirua 11, Training College 10, Johnsonville 9, University 8, Athletic 5, Old Boys nil. An interesting suggestion, made by a Native player, is that players with English names, such as Gemmell, Barclay, Phillips, Grace, etc., should adopt Maori names for the tour. This idea has much to commend it. In France and England the Rugby public will appreciate the national Maori spirit much more if the players bear Maori titles, instead of names familiar in everyday English. Well, University has now completed its record of absolutely consistent inconsistency (says the Christchurch Star). No matter what the Maroons do in the remainder of the Rugby season, they have established a record of unexpectedness that taxes the wildest imagination. As the competition now stands University has lost to every team in the First Grade competition, and has beaten every team, except the leader, Old Boys, and the tailender, Linwood, with which teams it has drawn. The thrill attendant on a potted goal depends largely upon the effect on the result of the game, and this form of scoring is rather rare in big games in New Zealand. There was one occasion when the potted goal for the time being was highly popular throughout the Dominion. It was in 1905, when the All Blacks were having a had time in Wales to keep up their winning career. In the last match, against Swansea, when the Welshmen were leading by a try, Wallace retrieved the game for the All Blaoks by a left-foot "pot” that landed the New Zealanders home winners by four points to three. Harry Budge, a player well known many years ago as a member of the Zingari Club, who has been living in the East, was a spectator at the University A-Zingari-Richmond match on Saturday. A correspondent writes as follows to English Field:—"The London and Paris match, played at Paris on Sunday, resulted as usual in a victory for the French team. The visitors appear to look upon these meetings more in the light of a joy outing than a serious match. How can players reproduce their proper form at Paris when 24 hours before some of them have been engaged in important matches, in Rome cases as far distant as Bristol? These constant defeats are very galling to British residents in Paris. A few years ago the Rugby Union sot its face against these Sunday beano matches, and possibly some thought might be given to the matter."

LEAGUE. SATURDAY’S MATCHES. Athletic are still leading for the First Grade Competition, as had an easy vie. tory over the Pacific team on the Caledonian Ground on Saturday aitemoon. Pacific Placed an improved side on the field. The game, however, was far from being a perfect exhibition of the code, as the passing of the backs on both sides was faulty. There were occasional flashes of interesting play. The mulling of passes was very noticeable in the first half, but there was an improvement in the second half. M‘Kay and MTlrov played an attractive game, and but for these men Athletic would have made a poor showing, as both players were responsible for the bulk of the attacking movements. M‘Kay was really brilliant at certain stages of the game, and, although the turf was against his well-known swerving movements, he frequently had the opposition guessing with his dash of speed. Webber, Athletic’s half, also gave an improved showing. Pacific kept grimlv to their task, but the backs were not brilliant, with the exception of Keen and Timlin, who were always in the thick of the fray. Christian Brothers had an easy victory over Kaikorai on the Oval. At Kaitangata. City were called upon to put forth all their exertions to master the miners, eventually winning by 14 points to 6. It cannot be said that the officials were wise in staging a junior grade match on the Caledonian Ground. Two senior matches played there would have proved a better attraction. The junior match staged on Saturday was between Christian Brothers and City. The game was not very interesting, and several players suffered minor injuries. In the match between Athletic and Pacific P. Harrison, one of Athletic’s backs, suffered an injury and loft the field. ne was replaced bv Denniston. The games resulted a 9 follows : Athletic 20 Pacific 3 Christian Bros. 15 Kaikorai 8 City 14 Kaitangata ... 6 POSITIONS OF TEAMS. The following table shows the positions of the teams engaged in the senior competition : Points. P. W. L. D. F. A. F.P. Athletic ... 8 7 0 1 157 37 15 City 8 7 1 0 178 47 14 Christian Brothers ... 8 5 2 1 105 84 11 Kaitangata 8 2 6 0 53 121 4 Kaikorai ... 8 2 6 0 43 142 4 Pacifio ... 8 0 8 0 38 143 0 ATHLETIC v. PACIFIC. Within a minute of the kick-off Pacific worked their way into their opponents’ twenty-five, and Timlin had an uncussessful shot at goal—a free-kick awarded for an infringement. Athletic then worked their way Back to midfield, where the backs handled the ball well in one or two passing bouts. Maxwell, right wing for Pacific, intercepted a pass and made a dash for the line, but he held on to the ball too long. A few minutes later the Pacific backs were seen in a smart bit of passing, which carried play to Athletic’s twenty-five The latter again worked their way back to neutral territory, where the game took a sudden turn in favour of the Blues. Harrison raced down the field, beating several opponents. He sent the ball on to Engstrom, who nearly got oyer. M‘Kay gathered in the ball, and, with a smart run, raced round the field and scored a splendid try. MTlroy converted. Pacific immediately set up an attack, and transferred play to the other end of the field. For what looked like a certain score from an infringement a Pacific plaver missed an easy shot at goal. The Athletic backs again showed to advantage in some smart passing rushes, but these were fruitless owing to the solid tackling. After some scrambling play M‘Kay picked up smartly in Pacific’s twenty-five, and, again beating all opposition with his speed, raced over to score wide out. D. Sullivan failed with the kick at goal. As a result of good play on the part of Keen and his supports, play was transferred to Athletic’s territory, where Keen had a shot at goal from a kick awarded for an infringement. The ball failed to rise. Athletic transferred play to their opponents’ twenty-five : where the Pacific full-back mulled the ball badly, and the opposing rearguard smothered him in a flash. M‘Kay secured and made a bold bid for the line, but he was quickly hemmed in. Athletic were awarded a free-kick for an infringement in a handy position, and MTlroy added two more points to the Blues’ score. Pacific again made a strong attack, and L.' Davis, picking up smartly, made a dash for the line, but was pushed out at the corner. Pacific continued to force matters, and kept their opponents busily defending their line for some time. Shortly afterwards Webber secured, and after the ball had been handled by Sullivan, it was sent on to M‘Kay, who raced almost the full length of the field. He short-punted, and the ball went out at the corner. When half-time was called Pacific were hemmed on their line. Athletic 10, Pacific nil. Shortly after resuming the Pacific backs showed to some advantage in a passing bout, which carried play to Athletic’s twenty-five. After some uninteresting play in Pacific’s territory, Timlin picked up smartly and raced down tne line, with his backs in support. He dummied nicely about halfway, completely upsetting the calculations of the Athletic rearguard, and raced thiough to score under the posts. Timlin made a poor attempt with the kick at goal. Pacific renewed the attack, and Brown failed to goal with a free-kick. Almost immediately afterwards several of tho backs of both sides were seen in some good passing bouts, the ball being sent on from man to man very smartly. Athletic pressed the issue, and the ball was sent out by Webber from a scrum to Denniston, who scored near tho corner. D. Sullivan, with n splendid kick, sent the ball over the bar. A few minutes later Pacific swept down the field in a fine passing bout, but the effort was spoilt through one of the backs failing to accept a pass at the critical moment. Pacifio were awarded a free-kick near Athlefcio's line, butfliTimlin failed with the attempt to increase the score for his side. Athletic set up a strong attack, and play hovered in Pacific’s twenty-five for several minutes. Again Pacific cleared, and the backs transferred play to neutral territory. M'Kay failed to take a pass, and several Pacific forwards and three of the opposing hacks engaged In a dash after the hall, which was kicked over the dead line. Play was fairly even

for the next five minutes, after which Pacific worked their way to Athletic’s line, Timlin attempted to pot a goal, but met with no success. Athletic backs showed up in some bright play, but the tackling was sure, and several promising movements were broken up. Some* uninteresting exchanges took place at half-way. Timlin made an attempt to place a goal from the field. Brown followed up fast, but he was just beaten for the ball. Some bright play followed, in which the Athletic hacks showed up in some sparkling play, but the tackling was again sure. A strong attack by Athletic just before time ended in A, Sullivan scoring. MTlroy added the extra points. The final score was:— Athletic 20 points Faciflc 3 points Mr S. Devereux was referee. CHRISTIAN BROTHERS v. KAIKORAI. The Oval was the ground chosen for the meeting of the two teams representing Christian Brothers and Kaikorai, the field being somewhat soft for a good exhibition. Kaikorai was on the aggressive very soon after the ball was set in motion, but a rapid change came, Christian Brothers breaking away and Walker scoring at the finish. Cusack failed to increase the value of the try. Very little time had elapsed when Cusack scored as the result of a good rush, O’Connor failing to convert. This made Christian Brothers 6 to Kaikorai’s nil. A passing rush was initiated by Fitzgerald, and a lot of ground gained thereby. Ultimately Quinn got across, but the score was not further increased. Kaikorai then attacked strongly, but could not quite manage to score for some time. The end of dogged perseverance was that Bowie got over from a loose rush, and N. Mackey kicked a good goal. This made Christian Brothers 9, Kaikorai 6, and the score remained at that up till half-time. On play being resumed nothing snort of good tackling by Kaikorai kept Christian Brothers from increasing the lead already established for some time. The end came when O'Connor crossed the line, Fitzgerald missing a rather easy kick. Cusack about this time had the misfortune to get his knee badly cut through falling on a broken bottle, and was taken to the flospital for treatment. Kaikorai warmed up to their game and made matters lively and N. Mackey scored practically unaided, but the kick failed. There was then some give and take play until, shortly betore the call of time, Walsh registered a try for Christian Brothers, which o‘Cannor failed to convert. There was no further score, the contest ending: Christian Brothers ... lb pemts Kaikorai ... .. 8 points Mr T. Leggett was referee. CITY v. KAITANGATA. Tho match between City and Kaitangata was played at Kaitangata before a fair number of spectators. The ground was in a wretched condition, and it was impossible to open up play under such conditions. City kicked off, and play settled in Kaitangata’s territory, both sides attempting passing rushes. Kaitangata at onto changed their tactics, and kept the ball at their feet and made some great rushes to City’s line, and were unfortunate in not scoring on one or two occasions. Kaitangata wer e at last rewarded. Their backs picking up the ball at half-way and sending out to Olliver, the speedy wing made straight for the line, easily evading his opponents, to score wide out. The try was not converted. City, spurred on by this reverse, carried play from the dropout to Kaitangata’s territory, and from a scrum near the line Jacobs worked the blind side and passed to Hunt, who then in-passed to Cameron, who went over to equalise the score for City. The kick at goal failed. City still tried to open up the game and Kaitangata made headway from their bad handling of the ball, and froifl one of these sorties one of th e Kaitangata backs Kicked up and kicked to Olliver, who scored is second try. The kick at goal was unsuccessful. Shortly after, half-time was called. City changed their play in the second half, keeping the ball confined to the forwards. with the result that they had Kaitangata in defence a greater part of the second half. From a scrum close to Kaitanguta’s line Tait dribbled through and scored. Immediately after Crook, Kaitangata’s half-back, passed out to his backs, but it was cut off by Cameron, who went across to score his second try. M'Cabe converted, making the score: City 14 points, Kaitangata 6 points. From this on Kaitangata dominated play and missed one two openings through over-eagerness. City were fortunate in keeping their line intact. the final score being 14 points to 6 points in City’s favour. CHRISTCHURCH GAMES. CHRISTCHURCH, July 10. Marists A 51 points. Sydenham 5 points. Hornby 11 points. Waimariri 2 points. Marist? B 24 points, Woolston 2 points. FINAL TRIAL GAMES. AUCKLAND, July 10. The concluding trial games for the selection of the New Zealand League football team to visit England was played at Carlaw Park to-day. Two games were played. Probables v. Possibles and A v. B. the players in both being eligible for selection. The weather was unpleasant, a strong wind with intermittent drizzling rain being experienced. The attendance was about 8000. Chief interest centred in the Probables v. Possibles game, which resulted in the Possibles prevailing by 32 points to 15. The teams were about equal in the forwards, but the Possibles’ inside backs were superior to their opponents, and made more of their opportunities. Davidson was brilliant at centre three-quarter, and Delgrosso was equally good at half, being well supported by Riley. Brisbane (fiveeighth) and Hickey and Parkes (wing-three-quarter) were not convincing, but Gregory (full-back) was very sound. In some respects Gregory overshadowed Dufty, Probables’ full-back, but the latter apparently had one of his lazy days. At times he was brilliant in attack, and mado openings that led to Bcores, but his fielding and kicking were patchy. In the Possibles’ forwards Mouat stood out, and was well supported by Menzies and Devine. Of the Probables’ backs Wilson-Hall and Kirwan were the most prominent, with Desmond and Saunders good at times. The forwards all played well, Avery, Singe, and Mason being very fast and deadly in tackling.

The A and B match was very evenly contested, the B team winning by 30 points to 28. The B team esablished a big lead In the first half, but changes were made in the forwards in the second spell, Townsend hooking for the A team and Carroll for the B’s. Much of the B team’s success in the first spell had come as the result of getting the ball from the scrums. Townsend made a great difference in the second spell, hooking well for the A team. Of the B players List and Gardiner (three-quarters), Prentice (five-eighth), and Ghent (half) played well in the backs, and on the A side Mansill. Vorrath (backs), and Bass, Clarke, and Payne (forwards) were the best. A feature of the game was the goal-kick-ing of Gardiner and Mansill. The first bit of exciting play in the Probables v. Possibles game occurred when Menzies, for the Possibles, intercepted a pass and broke through to Dufty, who tackled well. The first score went to the Possibles. The backs broke away, and Davidson cut out a man, raced to the fullback, and transferred to Hickey, who scored, and Mouat goaled. Possibles 5, Probables 0. Dufty made a good opening for the Probables’ backs, but Kirwan missed the final pass and lost a try. The Possibles were getting the ball from the scrums and setting the backs going well. The Probables then broke away, and after a great passing run Avery was tackled on the line. From the scrum the Probables got the ball, and Kirwan passed to Desmond, who scored, and Dufty goaled. Possibles 5, Probables 5. The Possibles got going again, Davidson racing for the line from half-way. Littlewood caught him on the line and saved a try. Immediately after the Probables just failed to score at the other end. Littlewood got across, but was sent into touch in goal. The Possibles then opened up, Davidson breaking through. He gave a reverse pass to Brisbane, who scored, but Mouat failed to goal. Possibles 8, Probables 5. Just on half-time in Probables’ twentyfive, Riley cut in cleverly and handed to Mouat, who scored and converted. Possibles 13, Probables 5. Play was fast an resuming, both sides passing with good judgment. The tackling on both sides was deadly. The Probables were penalised near halfway, and Mouat had a shot at goal, the ball striking one of the posts Parkes retired - injured, and Gardiner came on. A beautiful try then went to the Possibles. Gardiner passed to Davidson, who cut through at the centre and set the whole team going. Tallcntine accepted the final pass and scored, but Delgrosso. failed at goal. Possibles 16, Probables 5. Soon after the Possibles got going again. Riley broke through, but was tackled, and last the ball. Menzies, however, picked it up and scored near the posts. Mouat goaled. Possibles 21, Probables 5. Just afterwards the Possibles again swept down the field. Hickey punted over the full-back, and Devine picked up and struggled across the line. Mouat goaled. Possibles 26, Probables 6. The Probables’ backs attacked strongly, and Webb, who was obstructed near the line, was awarded a try. Dufty goaled. Possibles 26, Probables 10. From the Probables’ twenty-five Delgrosso broke through from a scrum and made a great opening before pavssing to Riley, who gave a long pass to Brisbane, the lastnamed scoring at the corner. Mouat failed at goal. Possibles 29, Probables 10. A great, try was then scored by the Probables. Dufty made a fine opening. Breaking away from his own twenty-five, he sent on to Littlewood. The latter sent back to Dufty, wl o handed on to Desmond, the last-named scoring. Dufty goaled. Possibles 29, Probables 15; Just on time the Possibles again broke away, Devine taking a pass in the Probables twenty-five and racing over to score. Mouat failed to convert. Possibles 32, points Probables 15 points In the A v. B match, the B team was first to attack. Gardiner had a shot at goal from a penalty, the ball striking one of the posts. Then Wade kicked through the opposing backs and raced over to score a try. Gardfiner goaled. B 5 points, A nil. The B’s continued to attack, and from a forward rush Townsend got over near the corner, and Gardiner goaled. B 10 points, A nil. The B team continued in a scoring mood. Gardiner made a good opening and passed to Wade, who scored, and Gardiner again goaled. B 15, A nil. Soon after Wade made a good run to the line. He was tackled but Moore got across and Gardiner added another goal. B 20, A nil. A good passing run saw the B v s again get across, but were called back for an irifringement. Not to be denied, the B backs again got going, List taking the final pass and scoring. Gardiner kicked a difficult goal. B 25 points, A nil. Just on half-time Bass made a good opening for the A’s before passing to Wilson, who scored, and Mansill goaled. Hilf-time scores: B 25 points, A 5 points. At the start of the second spell the A backs broke away, Little scoring and Mansill goaling. B 25 points, A 10 points. From loose play Wilson picked up in the B twenty-five and dashed across to score, and Mansill added another geei. B 25 points, A 15 points. The B team was penalised for obstruction, and Mansill kicked a good goal. B 25 points. A 17 points. After fast play the B’s broke away, and Dixon, taking the final pass, scored, and Gardiner goaled. 830 points. A 17 points. After an interval of quiet play Clarke, lor the A’s picked up in the loose and made a good dash to score. Mansill failed at goal. B 30 points, A 20 points. Another snappy bit of play by the A’s saw Little take a pass from Payne and score behind the posts. Mansill goaled. B 30 points, A 25 points. The remainder of the game was very fast, both sides playing at top pace. Just on time the A team broke away, but was held up on tho line. From a scrum O'Briefl scored, but Mansill missed the goal kick. Final scores: B 30 points A 28 points THE NEW ZEALAND TEAM. AUCKLAND, July 11. The New Zealand representative League footballers to tour England, leaving Wellington on August 7, have been ohosen by the selectors, Messrs C. B. Hardingham. A. M'Clymont. R. J. Stirling and & H. Mair, as follows: Full-barks.—C. Dufty and C. E. Gregory (Auckland).

Wing three-quarters.—J. Sanders (Canterbury), G. Gardiner, J. Parkes and L. Brown (Auckland). Centre three-quarters.—B. Davidson W. Desmond (Wellington). Five-eighths.—J Kirwan, H. Brisbane, H. Cole, and C. Webb (Auckland). Half-backs.—A. Wilson-llall (Canterbury) and F. Delgrosso (Aucklandg). Forwards. —F. Henry, L. Mason, L. Peterson, and L. Vivian (Canterbury), N. Mouatt and J. Wright (West Coast), H. Thomas (Otago), W. Devine (Timaru), E. Herring, A. Singe, H. Avery (Auckland), A. Carroll (Wellington). The reserves who wil ltravel if any of the above are unavailable, in order of merit arc: Forwards.—J. Menzies (Waikato). J. O'Brien (Devonport), . Hutt and J. Clarke (Auckland). Backs.—W. Eckhoff (Otago), I. Littlejohn. H. Riley and C. Prentice (Auckland). Avery was appointed captain and Mouatt vice-captain. NEW ZEALA-.D v. AUCKLAND. AUCKLAND, July 9. The Council of the New Zealand Rugby League has granted the request of the Auckland League for permission to play a game between the best available New Zealand team and an Auckland representative side before the former’s departure for England, provided it is played on or before July 17. Questions were raised as to a parliamentary farewell in Wellington, and a suggestion to ask for Government assistance as was given to the 1924 Rugby team. This was opposed by the majority of delegates. Messrs Swinnerton and Touhey were empowered to proceed to Wellington to arrange the farewell. Though there is no official communication from the English Rugby League regarding the itinerary, semi-official advice indicates that several fixtures in France have been arranged for the tourists.

competition p oints p. W. L. D. F. A. F.P. University A. 11 10 0 1 237 78 21 Pirates ... ... 11 8 2 1 185 97 17 Alhambra ... 11 7 3 1 116 64 15 Kaikorai ... 11 6 3 2 186 101 14 University B. 11 6 ♦ 1 159 114 13 Zingari ... ... 11 5 4 2 106 88 12 Southern ... ... 11 5 6 0 115 125 10 Taieri Rovers 11 3 8 0 86 162 6 Dunedin ... ... 11 1 10 0 69 224 2 Union ... 11 0 11 0 48 258 0