HOCKEY.

Waikato Times, Volume 97, Issue 15230, 5 May 1923, Page 15 (Supplement)

HOCKEY.

(By "Left Half.") The competition games commenced last Saturday in ideal weather. The form., shown by the players was excellent, and gives promise of much good and interesting competition during the ensuing rounds. To-day marks a forward step in local hockey, in the institution of a second grade competition. Hitherto owing primarily to lack of grounds the Association has been unable to cater for two grades. This season,. however, the Association has been allotted three playing areas at Seddon Park, and have wasted no time in catering •for the younger players. The Old Boys-United game was keen from start to finish, the pace being fast throughout. . Both teams have a sprinkling of new players. I was pleased to-see Old Boys playing a goalie. It should improve their style, of play somewhat. The roving back-does not nearly fill the bill. United have a good pair in Carde and Harris. Both played well, and are an acquisition to local hockey. United shifted the latter to full-back in the second spell, the change not being too successful." Old* Boys' forward line has been much Improved by the inclusion of Turtoott. This player has been prominent" In first grade hockey, both hero and in the South Island. Old Boys generally played well, but were fortunate to make a draw with their opponents, who Were slightly the better team on the day. Y.M.C.A. had no difficulty Irt disposing of Frankton, who were unable to muster a full eleven. This is regrettable, as the latter have in seasons past been very strong in point of numbers, and It is only a few seasons since they had a B team in the Hooker Cup matches, as well as an A eleven. • Surely It is possible to turn out a full team from this part of the district.

F. Burbush, Frankton's goallei sustained a nasty cut between the eyes from.a rising bail on. Saturday, but was able to resume after a while,

As is usual )fl the opening games there was. much talk. It was like a political meeting, at times everbody speaking at ohce. For the good of the game "cut it out." Will club secretaries see that teams for publication in Friday's paper are in by Thursday afternoon. The club colours were not all that could be desired last week. What about it? It's sot to be done, so why not early in the season. Besides looking much better it is a great boon to the referees, whose work is arduous enough without guessing colours, etc.