SPRINGBOKS OPEN THEIR TOUR

Waipawa Mail, Volume LXV, Issue 64, 26 July 1937, Page 3

SPRINGBOKS OPEN THEIR TOUR

DECISIVE WIN AGAINST AUCKLAND A GREAT GAME. AUCKLAND, Saturday. In the presence of some 40,000 spectators the South African Rugby team opened their New Zealand tour this afternoon, playing Auckland on Eden Park The visitors, playing a fast, open game, won by 19 points to five. The Aucklanders, undaunted by the reports of the steam-roller methods of the Springboks, played a fine game in the first half, the forwards holding their heavier opponents, but the local hacks failed to appreciate the advantage which this gave them. The score at half-time was s—o5 —0 in the Springboks’ favor, Babrow scoring between the posts after a great swerving run. Brand had no difficulty in adding two points. In the second half the spectators were treated to some dazzling Rugby by the visitors’ backs, Craven’s long passes being a treat to watch. About ten minutes had gone when Craven sent the oval out to Harris, who, after a fine run, handed to Williams to score. Brand failed with the kick. At this stage the Springboks were definitely on top, and only determined tackling’ kept them from scoring. Eventually they received a presentation try. They kicked high and Bush failed to Hold the ball. Martin, who had followed up fast, fell on it and scored. Brand goaled. On resuming Auckland staged a magnificent recovery, attacking strong--I,', and Frankham, the Auckland half, slipped over for a. try in a good position. Bush goaled, making the score 13—5.

The Springboks then retaliated by rushing play down field, and a passing movement, initiated hy Craven, enabled Babrow to score another try, which Brand failed to improve. Three minutes before the final whistle the Springboks scored another dazzling’ try. From a set scrum in Auckland’s 25, Craven shot the hull out to Harris, to Babrow, and on (o White, who heat Prentice and sent Bester over for a thrilling final try. Brand missed the kick from the touchline. Auckland 5 South Africa 19 .The final whistle came amid enthusiastic cheers of the crowd, which gave the Springboks a great ovation as they left the field.