Australia Wins First Hockey Test

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 727, 29 July 1929, Page 13

Australia Wins First Hockey Test

HARD FOUGHT GAME HOME BACKS PLAY WELL Press Association WANGANUI, Saturday. The Australian hockey team won the first test against New Zealand today by a penalty goal to nil. The visitors had the better of the play, but solid defence by the New Zealand backs kept the score down. The New Zealand team was weak in the forward line, notably in the outside positions. The Australians gave a glimpse of their best form in passing rushes early in the game and had New Zealand in difficulties. The New Zealand goalkeeper stopped a hot one and later saved the situation with a fine shot to the side line. The home forwards then got within striking distance but the defence was sound. New Zealand had a “life” when Nettleton sent in a shot from close in; the goalkeeper glancing the ball behind the net. Another Australian attack was cleared by Spiers, who was proving a tower of strength in the back line. The Australians continued to have the better of play, but half-time sounded without any score. When play was resumed the visitors met with some ill luck in the way of casualties. Wanless had to retire for a few minutes owing to a knock on the nose, and C. Cornie was out of action for a few minutes with a head injury. The Australians got going again and Hudson had two shots from forward scrambles in the circle, but the ball was turned over the goal line each time. The visitors kept up the pressure, and were frequently dangerous. A shot from Nettleton skimmed over the top of the goal. New Zealand took a turn at attack and Thrush put the ball over the top of the goal. New Zealand was penalised for obstruction in front of the goal, and in a penalty bully the visitors were awarded a penalty goal for a further obstruction. The home team set up a vigorous attack and reached the goal mouth, but the ball went behind. New Zealand kept up the pressure with two penalty corners, but Australia found relief from a free hit and time was called with New Zealand again in front of the Australians’ goal, but no score had resulted.