Can United Hold Fleming Shield Against Matangi?

Waikato Independent, Volume XLV, Issue 6234, 4 May 1949, Page 5

Can United Hold Fleming Shield Against Matangi?

With two series of senior Rugby Fleming Shield matches now decided, Cambridge patrons of the national game are asking themselves whether United can withstand a determined challenge from Matangi and thus- retain the trophy.

Next Saturday’s contest will also be of more than ordinary interest apart from the actual result. Players will be keyed up with a view to possible selec tion in the representative team to play the first Finlay Cup game of the season against Hamilton a week later. The Hautapu —Leamington game should also serve to assist the Selectors in reaching a final decision.

The United-Leamington encounter last Saturday indicated that there is little between the two teams, and the result may quite easily have been different. Both packs toiled honestly and hard, and some of the forward play was of a high standard.

One player who made a profound impression was Day who was always to be found where the play was thickest. R. Hulse was another United forward whose display was rugged and honest and Fell, Fleming and Drabble all came into the picture at times. Newcombe and Dench divided the hooking honours, each back-line receiving its share of the ball. The younger Leamington pack was by no means shaded. I. Paterson again impressed, working hard in the rucks and figuring in two determined solo runs. Q. Gfay proved a source of annoyance to United’s inside backs and his ability in the loose whs directly responsible for his team’s try. Others who toiled keenly and offered adequate support were McCandlish and Towgood. There was a quality of solidity about the play of some of the Leamington backs, notably Bell and Curran who linked up well on attack and tackled resolutely. Hudson gave improved service at