DILATORY DEFAULTING.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17351, 16 May 1924, Page 7

DILATORY DEFAULTING.

TO THE EDITOR Sir, It is gratifying to know that Association football is fast gaining ground in New Zealand and the belief exists that in a very few years it will be “the” winter game in the Dominion, as it is in Britain. There are many young men now in New Zealand who have a knowledge of the game as it ought to be played, and on the enthusiasm of these young fellows the future of Soccer depends to a great extent, since from their experience they are able to advise and instruct those who have not had the privilege of seeing Home “cracks” in action. There is reason to fear, however, that a laxness is creeping into the game with regard to the matter of intimating a default. Force of circumstances may compel any club to default, and the officials are to be sympathised with in such a case, but it is quite a different matter when the defaulting club does not intimate its having to default to the opposing team in time to allow the officials of the latter to communicate with their players. Notification of default ought not in any circumstances .to be delayed until within two or three hours of the time set for the kick off. yet it might be possible to unearth evidence that this dilatory defaulting is not unknown in Canterbury football. It ought to be made compulsory that notice of default should be lodged with the secretary of the opposing side not later than say 4. p.m. on the day prior to the match. To fallow notice to be given up till within a short time of the kick off is the height of ridiculousness. Such short notice was never contemplated when the rules of the game were framed, and steps should be taken to screw up some easy-going officials. A’our columns are looked upon as the Soccer guide and friend, and by inserting this mild grumble you will he assisting the best interests of the grand old game.-- I am. etc, GOALIE.