Football Notes

Southland Times, Issue 16059, 10 June 1902, Page 2

Football Notes

(By Punter.)

The excitement following the declaration of peace last Monday somewhat diverted the minds of players and public from the winter pastime. The Pirates v. Invercargill match was a closer affair than most people anticipated.The Blacks thought they had a very soft thing od, but nearly threw away their chance of gaining the premiership. With the exception of the first quarter, the Pirates appeared to be minus the vim that has characterised their play this season, and at any moment the Blues might have equalised matters. I was pleased to see Mr R. Galbraith in his old place as referee. Under hia vigilant eye the " pointers " had a bad time of it. His ruling was opportnne in view of the series of matches Southland plays outside this year, and for the credit of the province it is to be hoped our reps, will train themselves to keep within the rules. So far, one club is as guilty as the other in infringing. I saw Phil Jacobs on the ground, looking fit and well, and be tells me that lying on the ball to stop rushes is not tolerated up orth. He thinks Southland's prospects ©f success during their tour are rosy, and that they will go near another victory over the Empire city. The Stars added another win to their list by beating the Brits. They seem to be picking up their combination again, and by changing the positions of Giller and Mason the back play is strengthened. Giller was in his element at five-eight, and never played better. The junior match to-morrow between the Athletic and Cambridge teams promises to be a good go and the result will well nigh de cide the premiership, neither team having been defeated this season.

I was pleased to see young Traill out and about again. The fractured collar-bone is now set.