AUSTRALIA WINS HOCKEY

Taranaki Daily News, 29 July 1929, Page 3

AUSTRALIA WINS HOCKEY

FIRST TEST MATCH PLAYED

PENALTY GOAL DECIDES RESULI.

VISITORS HAVE BETTER OF GAME.

By Telegraph—Press Association.

Wanganui, July 27.

The Australian hockey team won ths first test match against New Zealand by one penalty goal to nil. The visitors had the better of play and the score would have been greater in their favour but for the solid defence of the home team. The All Blacks were weak Hi the forwards, notably in the outside positions. The Australians gave a glimpse of their swift passing rushes and after they had invaded the circle three times, the New Zealand goalie stopped a hot one and later saved with a fine shot to the side-line. The All Blacks forwards got within striking distance, but the defence was sound. New Zealand had a life when Nettleton shot from close in, the goalie 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 halftime sounded without score.

When play resumed the visitors met with some ill-luck in the way. of casualties, Wanless having to* retire for a few minutes to get his nose patched up, and C. Cornie was out of action for a few moments with a head injury. The Australians got going again and Hudson shot from two forward scrambles In the circle, but the ball was turned over the goal-line. The visitors kept up the pressure and were frequently dangerous, a shot from Nettleton skimming over the top of the goal. New Zealand took a turn at attack, but Thrush put the ball over the top of the Joal. New Zealand were penalised for obstruction in front of the goal and in the penalty bully the visitors were awarded a penalty goal for furthej obstruction. Amid great enthusiasm the All Blacks set up a vigorous attack at the goal-mouth, but the ball went behind. New Zealand kept up the pressure with two penalties, but Australia found relief from a free hit. Time was called with New Zealand again dangerous in the front of the goal.