League

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18786, 15 June 1929, Page 5

League

TWO KEEN GAMES ARE PLAYED AT PARK TO-DAY. The four leading teams in the Rugby League senior competition were engaged in the two matches at Monica Park this afternoon. Marist, who, with Addington, were leading in competition points, met Sydenham on the No. 1 ground. Hornby strove to down the Addington colours on the No. 2 ground. Waimairi met Woolston at Woolston Park. The grounds were in good order after the recent rains, and there was a fairly large crowd at Monica Park. MARIST V. SYDENHAM. There were several last-minute changes in the Marist team, M. Stretch replacing M’Kendry at full-back anti H. Burns taking O’Loughlin's place on the wing. Dobbs arid Spillane turned out. Mediocre play went from end to end until W. Le Warne scored in the corner, after the Marist full-back mis-kicked. The wind spoilt Hamburger’s kick. Le Warne scored his second try by carrying the ball and three men over the line. Fraser goaled. Sydenham 8, Mar-

ist 0. Fast and solid 'defensive work in Sydenham territory showed how Sydenham had developed into a keen and versatile team. One of their movements vPas well frustrated by Spillane near the line. Though movements broke down at critical moments, the play was made exhilarating by the smart recoveries on both sides. Sydenham did most of the attacking in the first half, and had the better of the play. Half-time scores:— Sydenham 8, Marist 0. Sydenham spent most of the second half in Marist territory. Occasional bursts by Spillane kept them out. but the usually fine combination among the Marist backs was lacking. The fresh Sydenham players hunted tirelessly for the leather, led by Turton. Davidson saved splendidly at full-back for Sydenham. In one burst Gillespie was almost over for Marist, but mis-lielding spoilt the effort. The two Le Warnes and Davis went to the other end in a slogging rush, which broke down at the corner. Dobbs scored after Sydenham bungling. From half-way, Gillespie let out to Burns, who scored. Then Hamburger potted a great goal. The final SYDENHAM 10 MARIST 6 Referee: Mr G. 11. Brittenden. HORNBY V. ADDINGTON. Addington had the better of the play in the early stages and the backs made several dangerous rushes. Addington were awarded a penalty in front of Hornby’s goal, but Sanders missed the kick. The Magpies continued to press, and a bright exchange of passing between Stuart and Sanders ended in the latter crossing wide out. O’Connell just failed to convert. A few minutes later N. Vivian made a great run to the line, where he was well tackled, Addington returned to the attack, and from midfield Sanders sent away the speedy Stapley, who passed to Henderson, the winger scoring. O’Connell failed with the kick. Half-time scores: Addington 6, Hornby 0. From a penaJty, W. Davis kicked a goal. Hornby showed improved form, and some good passing amongst the backs saw Cameron over, but he was held up. O’Connell relieved with a long kick. Then the Hornby rearguard gained possession and Smith handed to Mackie, who raced over at the corner. Keane’s kick failed. Addington 6, Hornby 5. Then followed a long period of even play with both teams making strenuous efforts to score. Final scores:— ADDINGTON fi HORNBY 5 Referee: Mr C. Allen. WOOLSTON V. WAIMAIRI Owing to the absence of a good number of their players, Waimairi were unable to field a team, and allowed the game to go to Woolston by default. As Woolston so far have not won a game, they thus get their first points on the championship table.