THE RECENT FOOTBALL MATCH.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXIX, Issue 146, 12 August 1911, Page 5

THE RECENT FOOTBALL MATCH.

(Tp the Editor “Stratford Post.”) Sir,—As there lias been some comment on the correctness or otherwise of the time played in the second spell in the match, Taranaki v. Maoris, on Thursday, I would like to state the ictun) facts. I appointed Mr. P. O’Dea, of Hawera, timekeeper, taking it upon myself to check him (if necessary). The second - spell started at 4.10 according to his watch; this would mean 4.55 for the end of spell : f there were no stoppages. Three minutes were, however, allowed for stoppages. On the last throw-in, 1 isked Mr. O’Doa how the time was going. He answered “Only a few sec>nds, allowing for the Stoppages.” I vould have blown the whistle the ’ext time the ball was out of play, but meanwhile the mark was taken" vnd the goal kicked. I should like to ooint out that, according to popular belief, the whistle should be blown when the time is up, irrespective of where the ball is. Those, however, who are versed in the rules, know that very often the ball may be kept Ive minutes in the field of play after time is up. Had there been no goal kicked there would never have been i word heard about the time.—l am, etc., A. W. PAYNE, Referee. Wellington Street, Hawera, Aug. 11.