LEAGUE.

Waikato Times, Volume 111, Issue 18630, 7 May 1932, Page 18 (Supplement)

LEAGUE.

OPENING OF SEASON.

NGARUAWAHIA TAKEB, HONOURS. DEFEAT OF HAMILTON THIRTEEN. (By “Verax.”) The Initial game of the Rugby League season in Hamilton was played at Hinemoa Park on Saturday when, in a keen and interesting match, Ngaruawahia defeated Hamilton by i* points to nil. Although a greasy ball militated against good handling there were frequent attempts to open up the game and some really good back movements were witnessed. The Ngaruawahia thirteen were the superior combination, and thoroughly deserved their victory. The Hamilton team, especially the backs, indulged in too much kicking, thereby giving the opposing backs possession. However, there is talent among the players, and a vast improvement should take place as the season progresses. Visiting Players. As fullback for Ngaruawahia Abbott played a very 'safe game harassing his opponents with powerful kicking and smart defence. Tlttleton was the best back on the' ground. His Strong running sorely tested the defence, and with further support would have been still more successful. The wing-three-quarters, Abbott and Kelly, made a good impression. The former’s pace earned him two tries, one of which was the result of clever play by Hill. At halfback Mcßurney was sound. Of the forwards, Menzies, Mason and Laird were the best of a hard-work-ing set, Menzies being particularly prominent. • The Losers Reviewed. Bennett, playing for the first time at fullback for Hamilton, acquitted himself well, while the threequarters, Mitchell, McDonald, and Merrick, although not having many chances on attack, showed up well. Simms and Holland at five-eighths, were good in patches, but on the whole, although solid on defence, did not combine well on attack. After several seasons’ absence from the game Cameron at half gave promising indications. Of the Hamilton vanguard Hogan w'as outstanding. He had weight and dash, and was always to the fore. Phillips played a good game, while Stubbings, Paget, Johnston and Hales all showed up.