The Rugby Game in Cambridge

Waikato Independent, Volume XLIV, Issue 6105, 24 September 1947, Page 5

The Rugby Game in Cambridge

REVIEW OF THE SEASON CAMBRIDGE THIRD IN WAIKATO (By “Observer”) ; j. Cambridge rugby teams finalised 'their representative fixtures for the season last Saturday, when the only trophy won by Cambridge this season, the Boyce Cup, was lost to Matamata. Although all three teams tasted defeat none were disgraced in the face of strong opposition. The senior game at Te Awamutu produced some good movements, but was a keen rather than a brilliant exhibition. The referee, Mr J. Coogan, of Putaruru, kept well up with the play and allowed neither side any latitude. Consequently, the game suffered somewhat as a spectacle. Territorially there was little between the two teams, the difference in points being accounted for by a “gift” try scored by Te Awamutu in the first spell. Brunskill redeemed himself in

Finlay Cup Table (Final Positions) /

the eyes of the local supporters by playing a fine game. He was directly responsible for Cambridge’s try, while his clever cover defence, and ability to find touch with either foot saved his team on several occasions. Review of the Season

Cambridge finished third in the Finlay Cup competition. Although the team disappointed on occasions, its position on the championship ladder proves that it is not an easy team to defeat. Absence and injuries have taken toll during the season. The defection of K. Arnold and R. Fletcher from several important games has been a setback. The season will be remembered on at least one score. The 10-6 victory against Hamilton early this month, broke a long series of defeats at the latter’s hands. The following is a detailed account of the record of the senior team for the season: —

Versus Futaruru, won 14—3. Versus, Raglan, won 12 —3. Versus Matamata, won 5—3 Versus Morrinsville, lost 6—13. Versus Paeroa, won B—-3. Versus Morrinsville, lost 6—ll. Versus Taupiri, drawn 12—12. Versus Hamilton, won 10—6. Versus Mangakino, won 21 —3. Versus Te Awamutu, lost 6—ll. Ten games were played, six were won, one drawn and three lost. The team score 100 points as against 68 points by opposing teams. The principal contributor was the youthful full-back, D. Paterson, whose excellent goal kicking contributed 16 points Fletcher was next with 13 points, with Brunskill (10), R. Arnold (9) and D. Reeves (7), next on the list. Several players gained Waikato honours. Brunskill played in all 8 games for the province and scored 25 of the 64 points recorded. A, J. Arnold, K. Arnold, R. Arnold, K. Drabble, J. Hogan, R. Fletcher, V. Miller, and R. Ogilvy were others who played for the province. K. Arnold worthily represented Cambridge in the 1947 All Black tour of Australia. He played in seven games, including two tests and added further lustre to his already fine record.

Efforts of Selector

This year the Rugby Union adopted the policy of having a young man as sole selector. In this capacity, Mr Les Haworth has acquitted himself creditably. There have been occasionswhen his elect has not met with whole-hearted approval, but there are few selectors who are not a target for criticism at one time or another. In at least one direction the policy of having a young selector has proved effective. Mr Haworth has had almost 100 per cent, co-operation from the players.

Much credit is also due to players who have travelled regularly with the team as emergencies. Others have overcome farming difficulties on their own initiative to complete the full programme and maintain the standard of play to the season’s end. Neither the Finlay nor the Peace Cup will repose in Cambridge during the summer months. Yet Cambridge made a determined bid for both trophies, and emerged from, a strenuous season the third team in the Waikato. Next season there should be some promising recruits to the senior ranks, and local supporters may expect a sound representative team, to take the field. , Seven A-Side Tournament Next Saturday the annual seven-a-side tournament will be contested at Memorial Park. The local rugby season will be brought to its end, and a dance at which trophies will be presented, will be held early in October.

PW.LD/1 mints Morrinsville 7 6 l A 12 Te Awaimitu 7 6 y — 12 Cambridge 7 4 / n l 9 Hamilton 7 3 — .8 Taupiri 3 3 1 7 Raglan 2 5 — 4 Matamata ' 7 2 4 — 4 Putaruru 7 0 7 — 0