SOCCER FOOTBALL

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume LV, Issue 17029, 14 August 1929, Page 11

SOCCER FOOTBALL

THISTLE AT AUCKLAND A NORTHERNER'S REVIEW Discussing the performance of the Thistle Club team m the Chatham Cup tie with Auckland Tramways on Saturday, a writer in the Auckland Star comments that the team brought from t!isborno had a reputation for youth and pluck, a reputation whicii they fully justified, though there was no doubt as to whicii was the better team of the two. The conditions were against Thistle, but even in the face of the six-goal deficit at half-time,, they never let up, and the goals they scored in the second half were certainly" well worked for and richly deserved. The reviewer further comments :

"While the Thistle gave a most sporting and praiseworthy display, they were not a match for their opponents. The team is composed of young players, and the lack of experience was apparent on many occasions. The ground was no doubt responsible for their inaccurate passing and laek of ball control, but team work was conspicuous by its absence. Kaston in goal saved many shots brilliantly, but, again, he took unwarranted risks, especially in the second spell, in running far out from his goal line to dear. Hill was the best of the backs. His long reach and his deadly trtdding stood him in good stead time and again, and he never beenme flustered under pressure. McLean, though apparently nearing the veteran stage, stuck to his gurts throughout a gruelling game. Bridge was the most noticeable of the middle line. In the second spell he played very far forward, and was as good as an additional attacker, though by doing so he left his charge often open. Jennings and Macer, the wing half-backs, were triers all the way, but were outplayed by superior combination. "The forwards never impressed as a combined foice. J. Watt, in the centre berth, was undoubtedly the most aggressive of the five, and he, on a dry ground. would no doubt have been difficult to hold. His two goals were clever efforts and the reward of perseverance. McGrory and Waters, of the right wine Were somewhat easily held, and did not show too much consideration for position plav. but in a team that was characterised by eager, honest work they were no exceptions. Waugh and R. Watt, on the left wing, tried hard, but were outplayed. The visitors, however, certainly earned mush admiration for the dogged I determination thev threw in.o the game and for the sporting spirit they have shown in making the long journey to ful fil their fixture."