FOOTBALL

Waikato Argus, Volume XXIII, Issue 3539, 25 July 1907, Page 2

FOOTBALL

Zealand v. Queensland. EASY WIN FOR THE VISITORS. 23 POINTS TO 3. Brisbane, July 24. Eight thousand witnessed the football match, New Zealand v. Queensland, which was played in perfect weather, and ended in a victory for New Zealand by 23 points to 3. From a spectator’s point of view the game was uninteresting, the visitors outplaying the home team, who were almost continually on the defensive in the first spell. Fryer scored three tries and Francis one. Wallace took a couple of kicks, and Spencer the other two, but no goal resulted. In the second spell Francis scored two more tries. He took one kick himself and Roberts the other, but both were futile. Fryer also scored a try, which Spencer converted. Altogether, New Zealand scored seven tries (one converted) to Queensland’s one try. The New Zealanders claim that their opponents should not have been allowed the try, as the ball was bounced in from the line-out, which was not permitted by the rules.

Speaking of the Waikato-Auckland match, played in Auckland on Saturday last, the Star says:—“ Under the existing conditions a scientific exposition of the game was impossible, and except in brief flashes, the play was far from being interesting. Waikato fought doggedly in the first spell with the wind against them, but more dash might have been put into the play when ends were changed. They put more life into it towards the finish, and deserved their win. Criticism of a game in such weather, and on such a ground, is unnecessary, but it may be said it was fortunate for Auckland that Murray was unable to go to Waihi, as he bore the brunt of the defence, and was by far the best back on the ground, his handling and kicking of the greasy ball being remarkably accurate. Miller also played a fine game at full-back, fielding and kicking well, and showing a bit of pace when necessary. Of the forwards, Williams, Maguire, and Pople were the best. Pople is an improving forward, and will work his way upwards. Keeley, who shone out last year, was again the best of the visiting pack, And also did very failwork. Hughes, Coote, and Prince were the best of the backs, while Smith, behind the scrum, also played a solid game. GROCERS V. TAILORS. The return match between the above was played on Steele Park, Hamilton, yesterday, when the former again won, the scores being 9 points (three tries) to 5 (a converted try.)