GRENSIDE ALONE ROSE TO HEIGHTS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18546, 21 August 1928, Page 6

GRENSIDE ALONE ROSE TO HEIGHTS.

SOUTH AFRICAN CRITIC PRAISES N.Z. BACK. Special to Press Association. OUDTSHOORN, August 20. Writing in the Johannesburg “ Star " Mr H. B. Keartland says: “ As anticipated the All Blacks relied on safety first tactics, depending on their defence to keep the Springboks out and for their opponents’ mistakes to provide chances which, it was hoped, would lead to victory/ They underestimated the powers of the redoubtable Springbok pack which outstayed the All Blacks’ vanguard in one of the most gruelling forward battles played in this country, which is one of the homes of forward play. It was a memorable game, however, in which the Springboks dill not take full advantage of the chances provided by their forwards and the All Blacks did not fully turn to account the mistakes of their opponents. But it was a thrilling game which left regrets that only one side could win.”

“Was the best forward on the field . . . full of dash and spirit.” H. du P. Steytler, writing in “ Die Burger,” said: “ New Zealand certainly played their best game in the third test, their forwards especially standing up to the gruelling task of keeping eight hardshoving Springboks at bay. The visitors’ backs, however, apart from defence, never impressed. They lacked a guiding genius to turn their efforts into good account and it was really only Grenside who rose to any heights. On attack the inside players seemed impotent, and their general display lacked the necessary thrust to break the Springboks' defence. Hazlett was the best forward on the field—a hard player full of dash and spirit, he made the fullest use of every opportunity that came his way, and in every passing or dribbling advance of the All Blacks he lent a helping hand. “The game was, however, won by the forwards. The Springbok pack in the closing stages completely mastered .their opponents, beating them in both scrums and line outs. A lot of credit must go to Phil Mostert and his men. From start to finish they struggled ir. homeric fashion and never for one second did they flinch.”