N.Z. HOCKEY “ALL BLACKS” DEFEAT VICTORIA, ONE NIL

Wanganui Chronicle, 7 August 1950, Page 6

N.Z. HOCKEY “ALL BLACKS” DEFEAT VICTORIA, ONE NIL

MELBOURNE, Aug. 5 (Recd. 6pm). —ln their last Australian game the touring New Zealand hockey team defeated Victoria one to nil at Olympic Park today. It was the first game between New Zealand and Victoria since 1937, when New Zealand won by 4 to 1. After 22 games in Australia, the “All Blacks” have the excellent record of 17 wins, three draws and two losses. They have not been defeated by any State team.

New Zealand took the lead early in the first half, when Smith goaled from a penalty bully. Both teams were having difficulty in keeping their feet on the slippery ground, and it was developing into a winger’s game. Adapting themselves better to the conditions, the Kiwis were faster than the Victorians and were displaying excellent stick work. A strong Victorian defence, however, with Keith Thornton outstanding, prevented the New Zealanders from increasing their score.

Play became more even in the second half, with the defences of both teams outstanding. New Zealand were still showing superior stick work and positional play, but could not score.

Bruce Turner was starring at right half for New Zealand, and with Jim Buchan, right back, was one of the best players on the field. New Zealand were on the offensive for much of the half and were unlucky to miss with several shots. The Victorians also broke clear on many occasions but could not get past the Kiwi defence.

Details: New Zealand one, Victoria nil. The best of New Zealand: Turner and Buchan. Of Victoria, Clarke and Thornton.