Kaierau

Wanganui Chronicle, 19 April 1949, Page 8

Kaierau

Kaierau have lost Peter Henderson, the All Biack winger, the big, experienced forward J. Whale, A. Duncan the full back, N. Thomas the promising live-eighth, P. Ward, M. Fifield and G. Doyle. However, a numbe r of good junior splayers have been promoted and Kaierau’s prospects appear brighter than at first forecast. Full-back will be the reliable junior, W. Dawson. He is a sure tackler. T. Cartwright and B. Bason will again be candidates fo r the wing positions. J. Price, rugged junior half-back, C. Lynch a capable junior five-eighth' and T. Takarangi, from Upper Hutt, are prospects for the senior team. The utility back, I. Whale, and J. James (half-back) will again be on hand. Kaierau’s gain this year is G. Luohi, a useful inside back from Athletic, Wellington. Kaierau’s pack will be headed by the evergreen E. Bellis, who is still

among Wanganui's leading forwards. The dashing loose-forward G. Gerrie will again be there to worry the opposing backs. Other forwards include L. Hill, F. Wawahi, D. Bates and R. Crombie. Newcomers are A. McConachie, a Waitotara junior player and J. McKnight from third grade. W. Williams, of Kai Iwi is another prospect far the forwards. Kaierau will undoubtedly benefit by the introduction of players of potential ability. With a fewmatches togethe r the team should improve.

EDDIE BLIGH, who is to play fullback for Wanganui and Old Boys. His influence has been of considerable importance in maintaining a strong club spirit in this club. At the moment Bligh is listed as fullback for the team, hut there are some who think that his leadership, and his weight, would be of value to the pack. It will be the forwards who will really decide whether Old Boys have a Cup winning team or not. Forwards and fitness should be the side’s motto this season.