FOOTBALL

Otago Witness, Issue 3782, 7 September 1926, Page 55

FOOTBALL

RUGBY

By

f FULL BACK.

It appears to me that some of our local referees are becoming so obsessed with the rules of the game that the game is likely to suffer. The rules are not much use without the game. The other Saturday afternoon I went into a dressing room after an important match, and there wag the officiating referee—he had hardly had time to wipe the perspiration off his brow—being cross-examined by another referee on a ruling he had given during the course of the game. Ido not know what the point was, as I was so annoyed, seeing that the referee had handled the game particularly well, that I at once walked out of the room. Mr S. Larkins, of Dunedin, who went on tour with the All Blacks to Australia, met some old-time New Zealand players there. In the 6tand reserved for New Zealanders at the match in Melbourne Mr Larkins saw fi face that arrested his attention. He asked a friend if he knew who he was. The friend did not know. “I know him,” said Mr Larkins and his friend asked when he had seen him last. “About 30 years ago,” replied Mr Larkins. Opportunity came later for Mr Larkins to strike up a conversation with the exNew Zealander, as he turned out to be. The dialogue went something like this. “Were you ever in New Zealand?” “Yes,” said the interrogated one. “You come from Port Chalmers, don’t you?” “Yes,” was the reply. “You played for Port Chalmers, and you represented Otago?” “I did,” answered the other in surprise. “And your name is Wally Menelaus?” “Yes, it is, and who are you?” Mr Larkins, an old Port Chalmers boy, supplied the information, and an interesting chat on old times followed, Mr Menelaus asking particularly to be remembered to Dr Hunter, another old Port Chalmers boy. Mr Menelaus played for Otago against Christchurch, in 1885. Mr Larkins learnt that another old time player—Mr Rube Cooke —well known ill football and boxing circles here many years ago, was keeping a hotel at St. Kilda, so he took the opportunity one Sunday morning to go along and see the redoubtable “Rube.” He knocked at the hostelry door, and it was opened by a burly form. “Is Mr Cooke in?” asked Mr Larkins, and he was informed that he was upstairs in bed—evidently strangers are not welcomed to hotels in St. Kilda on Sunday mornings. “Well, if he’s upstairs in bed,” drily replied Mr Larkins, “it must be his ghost at the door now.” “Who are you?” came the answer. “Do you remember playing for Merivale against Alhambra in—(oh, the fleeting vears) —” said Mr Larkins. ‘T played against you that day.” “Come Tight in.” said the delighted “Rube,” and once again the old, old “do-3 7 ou-remember” story was thoroughly exploited. “Rube” asked to be remembered to old friends, mentioning “Jimmy” Duncan in particular. One thing which impressed me during my visit to Invercargill to see the match between Otago and Southland was the hard times back play has fallen on in the southern province. Southland has plenty of fast, solid forwards—but they should put more life and dash into their play,—but on recent showing they have but one first-class back, Kilby. Certainly Shanks and “Ted” Stewart, the wing three-quarters, have all the requisites of good players, but they never saw the ball, so to speak. If Southland are to win any matches against the northern touring teams this season their selectors will have to make a strenuous effort to secure other inside backs and also a new full-back I could not help feeling sympathetic with the disappointment of the Southlanders when so many chances made by the Red forwards were thrown away by the backs last week. Given a sound, not necessarily brilliant, set of backs, and Southland will beat more teams than beat them. The game, as was the case at Carisbrook, was played in a fine friendly spirit, and the visitors were also most hospitably entertained. The old antagonism or ill-feeling, if you will, aroused by outside sources has passed away. Southland, naturally enough, is always very keen to beat Otago at football, but the players and supporters alike there are always anxious to see Otago beat the other provinces. The same eentiment is apparent amongst Otago players and supporters of the game in regard to Southland. Ail Black “Jock” Richardson was greatly impressed with the play of Holden, the youthful Otago half-back, in the OtagoSouthland match at Carisbrook. In conversation with me he said he had seen little, if any, faster passing from the scrum in all his experience on many football fields. Holden’s fine display at Carisbrook stood him in bad stead when he went to Southland, as he was closely watched all the afternoon, and had a hard time right through. His splendid play, however, meant practically the difference between victory or defeat for his side. Hargreaves, the Waitaki master, who has played five-eighths for the North Otago team, has left for France, where he will continue his studies. He intends to play Rugby during his stay there. In the South Otago team which met Metropolitan on Saturday week were two ex-High School players—Wilson (centre three-quarter) and Borthwick (second fiveeighth). Both gave sound displays, but the former, who is described as the brains of the South Otago backs, received few chances of showing his fine form. He will be remembered as a particularly good fullback. . . . A curious incident occurred during a seven-a-side Rugby tournament at Bulls recently. Kaierau (Wanganui), playing against Rata, had scored a try, and the kick at goal was about to be taken when the time bell rang, with Kaierau in the led by 6 points to 3. The usual courtesy cheers were then exchanged, and the teams filed off the ground, but it was discovered a minute or two later that the spell had been short, and the teams were ordered to discard their overcoats and return to the field. Rata then proceeded to win by 9 points to 6.

B. A. Grenside, the big Hastings wing three-quarter, and one of the giants of Hawke’s Bay Rugby, made a double record in the match against Wellington. He squalled the great score of J. Blake in scoring tries in one Ranfurly Shield gams, and also passed the century in in-

dividual points in Ranfurly Shield matches for Hawke’s Bay. It is reported on good authority that the Canterbury Rugby team to tour south this year will aim hard at winning all three matches (states the Christchurch Star). Usually it triumphs in one town, say. Dunedin, and then falls badly in Invercargill and Tim&ru, or in Dunedin and Invercargill, as the case may be. Norman M’Kenzie, the present Hawke’s Bay sole selector, was playing in Napier as a veteran during the war. One of the earliest skippers of a Hawke’s Bay team was the successful racehorse owner, Mr T. H. Lowry, whose sons later won Rugby, tennis, and cricket blues at Cambridge University. Long before the name of Hawke’s Bay resounded through the land, A. Kirkpatrick had shown qualities of true sportsmanship. He was captain of the Bay team that won the Ranfurly Shield from Wellington iu 1922, and subsequently he twice gained inclusion in New Zealand sides. “ Jazz dancing is helping to kill football” This assertion (states the Dominion) was made by a famous player of a bygone day “The youngsters never get to bed early; they neglect their training, and jazz dancing until a late hour every night is no training for footballers. Generally the younger generation of youth is going to the dogs” This player said that the youths brush back their hair; would sooner play tennis of some other " soft ” game, than face the hard knocks of the football field. “ Why,” he said, “ if a player gets a knock nowadays he immediately talks of retiring. I remember the time when once a player went on the field, especially in a representative match, he would never come off unless carried off. But now (and his expiession was one of disgust), they come off if someone tramps on their toes.” It did one good to 6ee what really hard play actually is, and in watching Beilis last week one could only wish that our chaps would take a leaf out of his book and so brighten up the game (says a northern writer). Only once did this hard play exceed the right spirit, but taken right through it showed what a vast divergence there is between hard and rough play. In a North Island town a well-known Rugby player was engaged with some others in digging out the foundations for a large building that was to be erected. The usual group of rubbernecks watched them at work, and at last one of them asked the footballer what he was digging for. “ Money,” he answered shortly. ‘ And when do expect to strike it?” asked the now very interested spectator. “ Saturday,” he answered shortly. S. CANTERBURY DEFEATS SOUTHLAND. INVERCARGILL, September 1. The reDresentative Rugby match between Southland and- South Canterbury was played at Rugby Park in beautiful weather befpre a large attendance. Southland won the toss and Dlayed with a strong sun at their backs. A succession of marks characterised the opening dav. Southland gaining the advantage. They were awarded a penalty in a handy position and Lilley made no mistake. Southlond 3 points, South Canterbury nil. The South Canterbury forwards wore playing well and Ward led a rush, the ball going out of bounds. The Southland forwards carried play back and a penalty against South Canterbury was turned to good account by Lilley. Southland 6 points. South Canterbury nil. South Canterbury pressed, and the ball came to Fairbrother, who, from just inside half-way, made' a fine effort to pot, but the ball dropped short. The Southland forwards started a passing rush, the ball going to Makenly, who scored under the posts. Lillev convertea. Southland 11 points. South Canterbury nil. South Canterbury then took a turn at attacking. Neutze cut in brilliantly and passed to Gerard, who scored a tine try. Strang converted. Southland 11 points, South Canterbury 5 points. Half-time was then sounded. A lively passing rush by Southland opened the second spell. South Canterbury oounter-attacked with a brilliant passing movement, but a forward pass nullified their effort. South Canterbury continued to attack, and Ward picked up and dived over. Strang missed with the kick. Southland 11 points. South Canterbury 8 points. Kilbv shot the ball out from a scrum to Davidson, who transferred to Hazlett, to Ottrey. the last-named scoring wide out. Lillev (Wi. ot convert. Southland 14 points. South Canterbury 8 points. Play was very fast, and the ball was being thrown about with great freedom. Fine passing by the South Canterbury backs saw Gerard score a good try. Southland 14 points. South Canterbury 11 points. From the kick-off the best piece of play during the day followed. All the backs handled the ball, it going to Trotter, who cut in and passed to Laneson. to Gerard, who ran round behind the posts. Strang converted. South Conterburv 16 points Southland 14 points. South Canterbury continued to attack and had bad luck in not scoring, Ward overrunning the ball. South Canterbury continued the pressure and M‘Bride dived over. A. Laneson missed with the kick. South Canterbury 19 points, Southland 14 points. Southland took the play to South Canterbury territory and from a line-out Gerard broke away. Trotter carried on, and further passing saw A. Laneson score. He missed the goal. South Canterbury 22 points. Southland 14 points. Plav was centred round half-way for a time. Eventually Neutze broke away and passed to Gerard, who raced from the twentv-five line and scored. Strang’s kick at goal was unsuccessful. South Canterbury 25 points. Southland 14 points. South Canterbury continued to have the better of the play, and there was no alteration to the score when time was called. Mr E. Kelly refereed. OTAGO v. SOUTH CANTERBURY. The South Canterbury team demonstrated in their match against Otago at Carisbrook on Saturday that their win against Southland the previous Wednesday was no fluke. The visiting forwards are heavy, and they do not shirk the tight stuff, ana the Otago pack had plenty to do to hold them. Toe

play of Stewart, the All Black forward, was closely watched, but he did nothing out of the ordinary. The gmne became very uninteresting at times, the fumbling by the inside backs on both sides being most irritating. Some of the Otago forwards, and backs, too, for that matter, should be shown how to collar an opponent. Trying to grab him by the ear or round the neck, is not effective. Doyle, the burly South Canterbury forward, proved this moat noticeably on one occasion iu the first spell, when two Otago men were bumped off by him. A third Otago man went for the knees, and the attack ended at once. Taking the display of the Otago side right through, it was not very impressive, and would not give any great satisfaction to local followers of the game. Webb was the match winner, and secured three tries in great style. There were about three points difference between the two teams, but a lucky turn could have given the northerners a win at any time in the last 20 minutes of the game. OTAGO (Dark Blue). Full-back, A. W. Heazlewood, 11.10. Three-quarters—R. Webb 12.4, Roy Callender 12.4, U. Walker 12.12. Five-cignths—l. Ross 11.7, W T . Bathgate 10.10. Half-back, A. Holden 10.6. Forwards—W. More 12.4, J. Hove 12.10, 0. Sonntag 14.4, R. Cameron 13.10, P. Burt 14.0, C. Jackman 13.8, J. Todd 13.8, C. Lewis 12.10 (wing-forward). SOUTH CANTERBURY (Green and Black). Full-back, D. Fairbrother 11.8. Three-quarters—W. Lawson 10.12, B. Trotter 12.0, A. Lawson 10.7. Five-eighths—G. Lawson 11.0, W. Neutze 11.0. Half-back, A Strang 10.12. Forwards—O. Dwan 10.7, G. I. Gerard 12.4, L Foley 11.7, R. Stewart 15.0, A. Pickering 12.10, G. F. Doyle 15.0, F. Ward 13.0, and J. M‘Bride. THE GAME. The Colours kicked off towards the railway end, and had to face the rays of the sun. After the teams had settled down a bit Heazlewood punted high, and stopped Fairbrother’s return. Passing by the Blue backs went to • Callander, who kicked too hard, and the Colours forced. Bathgate snapped up the ball in the fact of a forward rush, and got touch at the Colours’ twenty-five, and Callander again forced the visitors with a hard kick. Some ragged play followed at midfield, Heazlewood then showing up by running round on the open side and kicking to Fairbrother, play resting at the Colours’ twentyfive. Stewart and Trotter shifted play past halfway, but Heazlewood drove back with a fine kick, and the Blues attacked hard. The Colours got off-side at a scrim, and Heazlewood kicked a fine goal. Otago 3 points. South Canterbury Nil. The Colours came with a rattle, and Ross stopped A. Lawson near the Blues’ line. Play went back to the centre, and after Webb had been pushed across the touchline at the end of passing Jackman dribbled clear through to Fairbrother, who forced. The Blue s came again, and Holden, Ross, Bathgate, Callander, and Webb handled the ball in turn, the lastnamed fairly bolting along the right wing and diving over at the corner flag. Heazlewood missed the kick. Otago ... 6 points. South Canterbury Nil. Strang punted to Heazlewood, who returned to half-way. and utter an exchange of kicks Sonntag broke away from a lineout. A bad pass from G. Lawson to A. Lawson stopped an attacking movement by the Colours, and Jackman dribbled back in fine style. Give-and-take play followed. Heazlewood beat a man, and kicked well down the field, Fairbrother following the ball over the line and forcing. Passing by the Blue backs to the left wing ended nowhere, but the plaj swung across to the other wing, where Callander handed on to Webb. Webb streaked along the side line and went over at the corner, Heazlewood missing the goal kick. Otago 9 points. South Canterbury Nil. Immediately afterwards Doyle and Dwan led a Colours’ rush, and Strang placed a penalty goal. Otago 9 points. South Canterbury ... 3 points. Bathgate put his side in position with a great line kick, and Callander again forced the Colours with a hard kick. Heazle wood missed with a penalty shot, and straggling play followed. Heazlewood missed with another penalty. The Blues kept up the pressure, and Holden passed to Bathgate, who potted without success. Play drifted back to the centre, and then Trotter secured, and made a great run to the right corner. A. Lawson secured from an ensuing scramble, and cutting in he badly beat a couple of Blue men and scored near the posts. Strang missed an easy shot. Otago 9 points South Canterbury 6 points A. Lawson was prominent ir » passing rush, but Sonntag broke into it and passed to Webb, who ran and punted, the Colours forcing in a hurry. Weak passing by the Blues saw Strang taking piay tc Heazlewood, who kicked out at the half-way. Fairbrother was caught with the ball just before half-time, but the attacking movement broke down. Otago 9 points South Canterbury 6 points

Fairbrother was replaced by Boys at fullback, and Sonntag locked tho Otago scrum in place of Cameron. The Colours’ forwards were still coming round fast on to Holden, who was now getting the ball clean from forwards, and the Blue backs were handling badly. Passing by the Colours’ backs also broke down, but their forwards were sticking well together, and keeping tho opposing pack busy. At iast the Blue forwards threw off the pressure, and carried play to the Colours’ twenty-five, where a Colours’ player came rouid too quickly on to Holden. Callander missed t'.ie penalty shot. Burt and Bathgate showed out in another attacking movement, and Holden got to the line along the right wing before passing to Burt, who was pushed out. Hard forward play followed at the centre, and Heazlewood punted well down the field. Boys fumbling and then forcing from a high kick by Bathgate, who was overdoing this method of attack. Walkir forced the Colours again dth a hard kick. The Blue backs could not carry home the attack, and Trotter shifted play to halfway. More hard forward pity followed. Strang gained ground with a mark kick,

and Webb secured from lebound and ran to the Colours’ twenty-five. The Colours backs were (browing the all about, but to no purpose. Ross foroed the Co'ours once more with a hard kick, and Juckman vn« all but over immediately after, Webb also trying hard to finish off the movement. Strang. Foley, and Dwan shuuul piay back, and Heazlewood potted without success Scraggy play followed. Walker had to come behind Heazlowood and save in the face of a Colours’ rush. The Blue backs continued to fumble, and a hud kick forced Otago. At last the Colour go moving nicely, Strang, Neutze, G. Lawson, and Trotter handling the ball, toj Heazlewood stopping the rush. The Blues were hardpressed but a ground kick taved them. The sun was now commencing to sink behind the hill, and the rays were shining right into the eyes of the blue player-* Callander gained a lot of grouno with a line kick, and Jackman was almost successful in scoring A. Lawson kicked back past half-way, but passing oroke down at Neutze. From loose play Lewis passed to Callander, who handed to Webb. Jammed well to the side line, Webb, running with great dash, got through to the corner and then round behind the posts—a very fine try. Heazlewood goaled. Otago 14 points South Canterbury 6 points Tho Colours came with another great rush, and after Gerard, G. Lawson, Stewart, and one or two others had handled tho ball, A. Lawson dropped over at the corner flag. Strang kicked a good *oal and the whistle went immediately after. Otago 14 points South Canterbury 11 points Mr A. E. Eckhold was referee. OTAGO JUNIORS v. EASTERN DISTRICTS. As a curtain-raiser to the Otago-South Canterbury game, a match was played between the Otago junior representatives and Eastern Districts, the juniors winning by 20 points to three. The winners had easily the best of the game, possessing more combination and dash than the visitors, who were sound individually, but failed to combine effectively. The teams took the field as follows: Otago Juniors.—Full-back. S. Faulks; three-quarters—l. M'Leod, S. Porter, R. Arthur; five-eighths—J. W. Horsley, J. Griffen; half-back, E. Crawford; forwards— T. Watkins R. Souter, F. Sims, S. Banwell, J. Swan, G. Harbrow, R. Gray, and A. H. Malcolm (wing). Eastern Districts. —Full-back, Hiddleston ; three-quarters—Townsend, Barber, Calder; five-eighths—Te Tau, Crossan; half-back, Wilson; forwards—M’Lew, Wilde, Washington, Dreaver. Quinn, Duff, Payne, Hallam. Play was even until Souter kicked a penalty goal for the juniors after 25 minutes’ play. A few minutes later Quinn kicked a goal from a free-kick for the visitors. Both teams were fighting hard for a score, several Otago passing bouts proving ineffective. At last Malcolm scored from a forward rush, Souter converting, and the spell ended with the scores: Otago 8, Eastern Districts 3. From the beginning of the second spell Otago held the upper hand, the backs throwing the ball about well. The ball was sent out from a scrum and passed through the hands of all the Otago backs, M'Leod racing over at the corner. Souter was unsuccessful with the kick. A 9 the result of another good back movement, M‘Leod scored again a few minutes later. Porter’s kick bt goal was fruitless. From a difficult position Griffen sent out to Porter, and M‘Lcod was enabled te score his third trv. Porter failed to convert Otago kept up the pressure, and Porter dashed over to score as he was collared. M'Leod was unable to convert. The game ended: Otago Juniors 20 points. Eastern Districts 3 points. Mr H. C. Williamson was the referee. AUCKLAND UNIVERSITY TEAM. SUVA. September 1. Fiji defeated the Auckland University footballers in the third “Test” by 18 points to 10. For University Bark and Carter scored tries which Jenkins and Sheen converted. Freeman, the Fiji three-quarter, broke his leg. Lady Hutson- (wife of’ the Governor) and a large crowd were present. WELLINGTON COLTS DEFEAT NELSON B. NELSON. September 1. At Rn"bv this afternoon Wellington colts defeated the Nelson B senior team by 18 points to 14 points after an interesting game, in which the visiting backs proved to be too fast for the local team. The weather was fine and the attendance fair for an off dav. For the winners tries were scored by Peterson (2). Jowett. Charles. Vovce and Rushbrook. none being converted, 'and for the losers Thompson secured a trv, which was converted by Newman, who also kicked three penalty goals. SOUTHERN HAWKE’S BAY v. MANAWATU. DANNEVIRKE. September 1. A team chosen from the Southern Hawke’s Bav Sub-unions, but comprising mostly Dannevirke players, defeated the representatives of the Rugby Union on a saturated, slippery ground by 14 points to 13 points. At half-time Manawatu were leading by eight points to three, but the home team assented its superiority in the second spell in a hard forward game. Tries for Southern Hawke’s Bay were obtained by Kuru (3) and Walker, Paewai converting one. For Manawatu Revell, Strange and Gifford scored a try each, Mullins converting two. ALLEGED UNFAIR TACTICS. WELLINGTON. August 31. “Should we take any notice of the criticism about the Hawke’s Bay match?” queried a member of the Management Committee of tho Wellington Rugby Union at to-night’s meetin" when a controversy relative to the alleged unfair tactics of the Ranfurly Shield holders was mentioned. , „ . , . “Gentlemen. I think not. said the chairman. Mr J. Prendeville. He pointed out that they had a telegram from Hawke’s Bay regarding the published statement* of a Wellington player, but thought the information they had should be read in committee. A brief discussion in strict oommittee followed, and it was decided to defer further considtration until the letter regarding the complaint was received from the Hawke’s Bay headquarters.

HIGH SCHOOLS’ TOURNAMENT. INVERCARGILL, September 2. The annual tournament between teams from the Timaru, Christchurch, Otago, and Southland High Schools was concluded at Rugby Park this afternoon, when Otago met the Christchurch fifteen. A sparkling display of Rugby was witnessed by over 2000 spectors. The first spell was very even, Christchurch leading at the interval by four points, a potted goal scored by Merritt, to three, a try obtained by Manuel. In the second spell Christchurch obtained the upper hand until late in the game, when Otago rallied, but they could not break down the stubborn defence offered by the Christchurch backs. Merritt kicked two penalties, and Innes scored an unconverted try. Ussher played r sterling game for Otago, and was easily the most brilliant player on the field. Merritt, the Christchurch captain, also showed to advantage, and was largely responsible for the Christchurch team’s final total of 13 points to 3. Priest, the Otago threequarter, received another nasty knock on the nose, and was forced to retire tern-, pornrily before half-time. Since the tournament was Instituted in 1914 Timaru has won on four occasions, Christchurch and Otago on three, and Southland on two. The fixture between Timaru and Southland was played in the morning, and resulted in an easy win for Timaru by 29 points to 9. Timaru were leading at halftime by 6 points to 3, but in the second half they rattled on 23 points. 20 of them being scored in the final 15 minutes. THE RANFURLY SHIELD. NAPIER, September 3. The Hawke’s Bay Rugby Union tonight decided to accept the Canterbury challenge for the Ranfurly Shield, conditionally on the selector. Mr N. A. M'Kenzie, being able to assure the union that he can get away a team satisfactory to himself and to the union. The challenges of South Canterbury, Otago, and Southland were declined. It was decided to ask for the appointment of Mr A. E. Eckhold (Dunedin) as the referee for the Canterbury match. APPOINTMENT OF REFEREE. WANGANUI, September 3. There has been quite a stir in Rugby circles over the refereeing of the recent Te Aute-Technical College game, and the final development is that the referee, Mr P. London. has been suspended, and he has been called upon to apologise. This ultimatum Mr London resents, as he performed the duties of referee at the request of, and by the consent of, the two schools, but not with the approval of the Referees' Association. A big split in the Referees’ Association is likely to occur, the president, the secretary, and others having signified their intention of withdrawing from the associa-' tion. The position is that another referee had been appointed, and turned up to referee the game, when the school authorities notified the Referees’ Association’s nominee on the ground that that did not require his services as they personally wanted Mr London. Interesting developments as to the rights of referees in school games are expected. UNIVERSITY WINS SYDNEY COMPETITION. SYDNEY, August 31. By defeating Randwick by 19 points to IS, University won the Rugby Union premiership for the season. TARANAKI DEFEATS WANGANUI. NEW PLYMOUTH, September 5. Before an attendance of upwards of 5000 the Wanganui representatives made a valiant attempt to avenge their overwhelming defeat by Taranaki earlier in the season. The only difference between the teams on the day’s play was a penalty goal. In a fast scoring match that never attained any particular brilliance Taranaki emerged wins ners by 24 points to 21. Up to half-time Taranaki dominated the game, the score then being 14 points to nil, but in the second spell a reorganisation of the Tara-, naki backs, combined with the fact that the home team faced a dazzling sun, gave Wanganui a chance to show their worth. The visitors brought the score up to 14 points to 13, but Taranaki broke away, again to add two more converted tries. Wanganui fought gamely and reached 21 points by two tries—one converted. The scores consisted of five tries each, three of which were cohverted for each side, Tara* naki’s extra points being a penalty goal. WIN FOR MAORI TEAM. 'j WANGANUI, September 4. The Wanganui B Rugby team tried eon* elusions with Wainui-o-Rua, an up-river Maori team. The weather was fine and the ground in good order. Some interesting and spectacular play was witnessed, the Maoris being very nippy. They were too clever for Wanganui, and won by 17 points to 12. : . WELLINGTON GAMES. \ WELLINGTON, September 5. Another instance of the remarkable patronage that the Wellington public bestows on local football was given on Saturday, when an attendance estimated at nearly 12,000 gathered to see Athletic and Univier* sity Clubs contest the final match for tho championship. The latter had come with a great rush, winning nine matches in sue* cession, but were still two points behindAthletic, which had led all the season, had only been beaten twice. If University t won they would have to play off again, but a win or a draw for Athletic gave them the title, which they had not held for 11 years, during which time Petone or Poneko Clubs has regularly been at the top. Through much of the game University; showed the better form, and frequently looked like scoring, but Athletic’s defenceheld good, and helped by some fine goalkicking by Svenson they came out triumphant by 14 points to 0. The other games resulted as follows:—» Marisfc 11, Petone 8. Oriental 6, Poneke 6. Hutt 3, Berliampore nil. Wellington 20, Selwyn 14. POVERTY BAY BEATS AUCKLAND, AUCKLAND, September 5 Poverty Bay beat Auckland by 17 points to 14. SEDDON SHIELD MATCH. •( NELSON, September 4. In glorious weather, and before an at* tendance of about 4000, Nelson success- ** fully defended the Seddon Shield against Buller, winning by 16 points to 9. The Nelson backs were brilliant, with M Qre*

gor, Snodgrass, ami Wallace at the top of their form. Wallace pained Nelson’s first try from an opening by M‘Gregor and Read, Snodgrass goalinp. On half-time Mahoney Bent to Snodgrass, who dived over. Buller opened strongly, Davis gathering and going over. Davis later kicked a penalty goal. Snodgrass ran from halfway, and when opposed on the line passed to E. Snow, who sent a long pass to Wallace, who ran over. Reed kicked a goal. Snodgrass then scored another try after running from half-way. Close on time Kearns, the Buller full-back, made a strong dash in the Nelson twenty-five, and Tunnicliffe finalised with a try. The Buller forwards were superior in the loose, and Kearns and O’Brien were their best backs. WELLINGTON BEATS GOLDEN BAY NELSON, September 4. Wellington beat Golden Bay (Motueka) by 18 points to 14. MATCH AT CHRISTCHURCH. CHRISTCHURCH, September 5. The touring team defeated the B team by 49 points to 13. MAOltl TEAM’S TOUR. LONDON, September 2. The Maori Rugby team will-arrive at Aiarseilles to-morrow. PARIS, September 3. M. Lery (president) and M. Laurent (secretary of the French Rugby Federation), with many English and French sportsmen, including Mr Wray, welcomed the Maoris at Marseilles. Mr Barclay said that the match arranged to be played at Marseilles on September 12 was not included in the original programme. The team needed two months’ hard training, and would play a fast, open game, and intended to play good football. LEAGUE. By FORWARD. NOTES. Eckhoff was badly missed by City on Saturday. He adds a wonderful amount of strength to his side, and the players as a team have more confidence when he is with them. The New Zealand Council intends to appoint its own referees for future challenge matches. The leagues concerned will be expected to submit each season the names of three leading referees. It cannot be said that the New’ Zealand team will be pitted against a weak combination in their firgt game in England, as Dewsbury, the team they meet, w r on the knock-out cup last year from a long list of competitors. Dr F. Gwynne, founder of the University League team in Sydney, is now resident in Auckland, where it is understood he will continue to assist the code. -South Sydney, the champion team in the competitions, has been defeated by Newtown by 25 points to 24 in one of the greatest games seen in Sydney. In the' second half Newtown, which formerly had been well down on the competition ladder, played with only 12 men. Arrangements are now' well in hand with regard to the preparation of playing areas on the league’s property in South Dunedin. P is expected that the necessary work wi!' be started early next year, but some tin»f will elapse before operations are completed. One lot of surplus sections has already been sold, and the second batch of 15 will be disposed of ou September 7. Du rink th.» past few seasons the Richmond Club (Auckland) has met w’ith a continuous run of successes with its junior teams, and already this season the club has won three championships— namely, the third, fifth, and sixth A grades. Jbe Richmond Club has a strong committee, which has given close attention i i the young players, and this, no doubt, has 1 ■ ought success on the playing field. Mr Tom M‘Mahon, the well-known international referee, of Sydney, has decided to retire from the game. He has officiated in probably more representatives games than any other in Australia or New’ Zealand.

Wales, omv the stronghold of Rugby Union football, has been invaded by the League code, for a club has been formed at Pontypridd, where the first League International between England and Wales was played last season. Many prominent players in the big clubs are Welshmen. The Grafton Athletic Club (Auckland) has written to the Junior Advisory Board of the Canterbury League asking if a match can be provided for their third grade team early in September. It was stated that they were easily the best third grade team there, the record at present being 203 points for and 26 against. The team had not been defeated. It has that Grafton be invited to visit Christchurch and play a match with a representative team on September 25. The lid is on the argument as to which League footballer In Australia has played the greatest number of first grade matches (says a Sydney paper). Recently it-Jooked as if “Cliook” Fraser, of Balmain, “walked in” with a score of 215. Ted Courtney has figured in nearly a hundred more games than Fraser, though all have not been played with the one club. And, added to his League record, Courtney played in the union before the League came into existence. Courtney appeared altogether in 304 League first grade fixtures, dating from 1007 to 1925, and with the exception of the 1910 season with North Sydney, he played the whole of them with Western Suburbs. The dispute between Dr Thacker and the Canterbury League Centre In connection with the appointment of Mr S. M. Richardson ns financial manager of the Canterbury team on the trip to Auckland, has apparently been settled. The Monica Park Board of Control appointed Mr Richard- ‘ son ns financial manager, but the executive of the League objected to the appointment on the ground of expense. The Board of Control then stated that it was going to send Mr Richardson, and Dr Thacker (the president) said that he would not sign the cheque to send the team north unless Mr Richardson went, and, what was more, he said that he would pull out of the centre. The Board of Control got Its own way. as when the team left Christchurch Mr Richardson accompanied the players in an official capacity. In the annual report of the English Rugby League full support of lta clubs is •aked for In carrying out the programme •f the New Zealand team’s tour, which

opens ou September 11 at Dewsbury. The first Test takes place on October 2 at Wigan, the second at Hull on November 13, and the thirt and last Test will be played at Leeds on January 15. Iu addition there will be matches played against England and Wales, Lancashire, Yorkshire, Cumberland, and Glamorgan. The itinerary comprises some thirty-six matches, a pretty stiff order, and w’ill find out the weaknesses of the team before the last Test comes. NEW PLAY-THE-BALL RULE. The introduction of several amendments to the rules of the game gave additional interest to the League football competition games played in Auckland on Saturday week. The play-the-ball rule, while it certainly made the game more open, caused the players some concern (says the New Zealand Herald). It is evident the players will need more schooling to make the interpretation of this rule more effective In the match between Ponsonby and Richmond some very unfair tactics were adopted in securing the bail from the ruck. The refeiee was placed in an awkward position, having to control the amendments in a judicious manner, besides acting as a schoolmaster for the players. Since the inception of the code in 1909, the rules have not undergone any serious alteration, but. with a view to *speedingup the game, the Auckland League followed the amendments of the play-the-ball rule, as played in Sydney. The effect of the rule as revealed by the play left much to be desired, and further instruction from the referees is imperative before the next game is played. In playing the ball under the new rule, the player s must be made to face their opponents, and drop the ball to the ground immediately in front of them, giving each side an opportunity to gaining possession. The Ponsonbv players were the worst offenders, and caused many breaches that went unchallenged by the referee. On numerous occasions Ponsonby players turned sideways and placed the ball behind their feet, giving the Richmond men no chance of even attempting to secure possession. > It is to be hoped that every encouragement will be given to the amendments, but upon the players depends tV-' success or otherwise of the rule. FAR TOO STRINGENT. At the annual conference at Llandrindod Wells the English Rugby League Council decided to inform the Australian Board ol Control that it is its intention to delete the reference to Rugby Union players made in the existing agreement. Most people have thought for a long time that the law w’as far too stringent. Framed expressly to protect Australian and New’ Zealand clubs from losing their best players by transfer to English teams, the agreement also gave the Dominion authorities power to refuse the right of even a Rugby Union player from joining an English club except after residence in England for tw’o years. “ Full Back” writes on this subject in the Empire News (Manchester) : “As I have in the past frequently pointed out,” be says, “ this was only adding strength to the Rugby Union game. Take the case of Nepia, for instance. The famous All Black full-back, if lie had accepted the terms Hull, w’ould have had to obtain a permit from the New Zealand League; otherwise he would have had to reside in this country for two years before being able to play in competitive football. He had no in tention of playing League football in bis own land, but was willing to do so in England. When the Rugby Union clause will actually- - be deleted remains to be seen, but it will require the sanction of a general meeting, and will give the utmost pleasure in such clubs as Wigan, Oldham, Leeds, and Hull, who sought to have the whole agreement cancelled only a few weeks ago, but failed because there was not a two-thirds majority in favour. It is beyond question that certain members of the last Rugby Union AH Black side were willing to accept terms offered by Rugby League clubs, but the two years’ qualification stood in the way. If such a mistaken idea had never been invented, the Rugby League game would have been improved by the presence of some of the men who beat all-comers in this country two years ago. The myth that Rugby Union players could be forced to join up with the Rugby League in their own country by the institution of such an embargo has been * exploded, and the sooner the alteration become law the better it will be for League football in this country.”

MEDAL COMPETITION. The matches for the medal competition were continued on Saturday. The sun shone brightly, but on the Caledonian Ground a strong wind prevailed, and mad* matters rather unpleasant In the fir»t match Christian Brothers showed a decided superiority over Kaikorai, winning easily by 30 points to nil. The second game was between . ific and Athletic. Several of the latter's regular players were absentees, and the club had a difficult job to put a full team in the field. In this match the issue was settled by Timlin, who made one of the most brilliant runs this season, and who finished up by scoring beside the posts. The games resulted as follow:

Pts. Pts. Christian Bros. 30 Kaikorai 0 JPacifio 8 Athletic 5 City 16 Kaitangata ... 16 POSITIONS OF THE TEAMS. The positions of the teams engaged in the competition are as follows:

IN OTHER CENTRES. AUCKLAND, September 4. The following are the results of Rugby league matches played on Saturday: City 14. Devonport 9. Ponsonby 10, Marist 8. Newton 13, Grafton 12. CHRISTCHURCH MATCHES. CHRISTCHURCH. September 5. Hornby 29, Waimairi 17, Marists A 10, Sydenham 6.

NEW ZEALAND TOURING TEAM. LONDON, August 30. The New Zfhland team will arrive at Southampton from Canada on Thursday, and will commence training at Harrogate on Saturday. September 2 Owing to bad weather, the Minnedosa, with the New Zealand League footballers un board, will not berth at Southampton till late to-night. Sir James Parr sent a message of welcome to the team. September 3. The New Zealand League football team has gone into headquarters at Harrogate. ARRIVAL AT SOUTHAMPTON. LONDON, September 3. The New Zealand League players arrived at Southampton. The manager (Mr Mair) said that the team had trained thoroughly during the voyage. They were absolutely 1 fit. The players’ weights ranged from 13.0 to 17.0, and the fastest man colld do 100 yards in 10 3-ssec. He added that they had adopted unorthodox tactics, which he hopes will bring success. _ ASSOCIATION. SATURDAY’S MATCHES. The semi-finals of the A division were played at Culling Park on Saturday, when Kaitangata and Technical College Old Boys registered wins in their respective games. These teams will contest the final, which will probably be played next Saturday. The positions of the senior teams in the two divisions are as follows: *‘A” Division. Goals Cup

CHATHAM CUP FINAL. WELLINGTON, September 4. The final of the Chatham Cup was played ufc the Basin Reserve to-day between North Shore (Auckland) and Sunnyside (Christchurch). Sunnyside kicked off against the wind, but the Shore immediately attacked and pressed home. Play was fast, and Sunnyside worked down to the Shore’s goal, and Pickering scored with a fist shot. Sunnyside 1, Shore nil. Sunnyside showed nice combination among the forwards. The ball was sent out to Robson, who looked like scoring, but was penalised for off-side play. M “Lachlan took the ball down to the goal end centred, and Trotter brought Sunnyside’s score to 2 in fine style. Within five minutes Shore scored, Hipkins netting the ball from close up. Sufinyside 2. Shore 1 A centre from Hipkins was headed over the net. Sunnyside attacked, and Shore had some anxious moments, till a corner that was sent behind gave them relief. Trotter took another shot from close up, but prut the ball high over the Shore conceded a comer, but the kick went behind. Callaghan, the Sunnyside goalie, brought off a fine save, relieving .his side from a tight position. Sunnyside were penalised from n throw in. Dut the free kick was sent over the net. Tb- 1 final score resulted Sunnyside 3 goals, North Shore 1 goal. RESULTS OF PREVIOUS CONTESTS. 1923. Seacliff (Otago). 1924. Harbour Board (Auckland). 1925. —Y.M.C.A. (Wellington. 1926. —Sunnyside Canterbury).

IN OTHER CENTRES. AUCKLAND, September 4. The following are the results of Association football matches played on i -turday : Northcote 3, Y.M.C.A. 1. Tramways 4, Ponsonby 1_

CHRISTCHURCH COMPETITIONS. CHRISTCHURCH, September 5. Technical Old Boys 3, Nomads 1. Kaiapoi nil, Western nil. MEETING OF THE COUNCIL. WELLINGTON, September 2. The council of the New Zealand Football Association met to-night The South Auckland Association wrote applying for an extension of the season to October 18. This was allowed. The following referees were appointed: — Final of the Chatham Cup, at Wellington, on Saturday. Mr G. Kelly; Brown Shield match (South Auckland v. Wanganui), at Hamilton, Mr J. Wallace. In reporting the result of the primary schools’ championship, Mr L. A. Atkinson said that at a conference the following was recommended :—“That a Primary Schools’ Association should be formed in each island, tournaments to. be played in each island, and the final to be played on the lines of the Chatham Cup final.” An official report would bo presented later. A long discussion ensued on the question of the Diamonds Club and a player named Guest who had played for North Shore. It was decided to censure Guest. It was stated that both he and the club acted in ignorance of the rule bearing on the point.

Christian Bros. p. w. L. Points Cmp D for. agt. Ps ... 3 3 - 68 18 6 Pacific ... 3 2 1 — 21 21 4 Athletic ... 3 1 1 1 44 22 3 City ... 3 1 1 1 39 35 2 Kaitangata ... 3 — — 2 33 41 2 Kaikorai ... 3 — 3 - 8 66 -

P. W. L. D. for act. Ph. Kaitangata .. .. 3 2 1 — ii 4 4 Technical College 3 2 1 — 5 5 4 Otago High School 3 1 2 — 5 12 2 Seacliff “B” 3 12 Division. — 8 8 2 Northern 3 2 _ _ 6 2 6 Southern 3 2 1 — 8 5 4 Maori Hill 3 2 1 — 8 5 4 Mosgiel 3 1 2 — 4 9 2 Y.M.C.A 3 1 2 — 6 6 2 Mornington 3 - 3 — 3 8