RUGBY FOOTBALL.

Shannon News, 28 March 1929, Page 4

RUGBY FOOTBALL.

THE COMING SEASON.

Manakau will make strenuous efforts to place a strong fifteen in tlie field this season,i'but will be minus several of last year's players. Even the veteran captain, Bob George, talks of giving the game—as far as playing is concerned —best, but has practically decided to take on refereeing. He will, however, don the jersey ag'ainst Athletic a't Easter time. Manakau is fortunate in having “Joe" Corbett, and ex-All Black, and this enthusiast will act as coach. Last season he was one of the team’s mainstays. Another enthusiast that Manakau is lucky to possess is Tom O’ißourke. such “old-timers" behind the game Manakau should rally round and give all support possible. It was expected that Manakau juniors would be weak this season but judging by a Union official the statement that certain juniors had been classified as seniors is premature.

A meeting of the Management Committee of the Otaki Club (seniors) was held on Monday night when it was .reported that several donations had been received and others promised. It behoves players to now become active, pay their subs., and get into form. On one occasion when the seniors had a strong combination only three out of 18 paid their os ,sub. This is not as it should be and players this year are expeeted tq pay promptly. Without funds the club cannot carry on/especially as visiting teams will have to be entertained.

Mr. Harry Jacob, who received a bad injury a season ago, has consented to act referee this year. His knowledge of the game is gi'eat, and there is no reason why he should not bo a success.

It is understood that an endeavour to form a Te Horo-Hautere third-grade team has lapsed. Waikanae, it. is understood, intends 10 enter for the Horowhenua championship. ; It is thought that Weraroa will place a strong team in the field this season. It is stated that nearly all of last year's players are available.