WELLINGTON FOOTBALL.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Volume V, Issue 216, 13 September 1894, Page 3

WELLINGTON FOOTBALL.

[by

WIRE.]

September nth. The weather was cold and showery for the match between Wellington and New South Wales on Saturday, while a southerly breeze was blowing right across the ground. Between 5000 and 6000 persons assembled at Newtown Park to witness the game, which was well contested. N.S.W. had, however, all the best of it. their forwards beating the local opponents in every department of the game, although the wings, McKenzie and Kelly, proved too much for the visitors. If the New South Wales backs had gone in for more passing (especially Dibbs) I fancy Wellington would have been defeated. Shortly after the kick off for the first spell the Wellington forwards rushed the ball over the line, and Jack scored, Campbell failing to convert. Gage was responsible for the Wellington line being endangered on more than one occasion. The play was mainly confined to the forwards, neither side getting much the best of it until Wynyard streaked for the New South Wales line, but on being collared he failed to pass, to Duncan, who had a good chance of scoring had Wynyard played to him. Edwards, Lane and Carson then rushed the ball down the field, eluding Gage and Davidson. Carson scored between the posts amidst great excitement and Lusk kicked a beautiful goal. The rest of the spell was very exciting, both teams being near a score on several occasions. In the second spell the forwards of both teams showed good form, but the backs were “ off.” Wellington’s wing forwards were responsible for good play, Kelly bringing the ball from the New South Wales 25 flag by a fast dribble and almost got over the line. It was, however, quickly cleared and the Wellington territory was in turn invaded. Davidson saved by kicking the ball up the bank. Shortly afterwards Kelly got another rush on, and with the aid of McKenzie crossed the line, the latter scoring after a — scramble. Campbell again failed to convert. New South Wales now rallied

and threatened the Wellington line, but without avail, Gage, Duncan and Davidson showing up well in defence. After play was in neutral territory for some time Pringle broke away, and with the assistance of Kelly and MacKenzie, rushed the ball over the New South Wales’ line. The latter scored, but Campbell was again unable to convert. The Australians worked hard to increase the score, and the Wellington line was in danger once or twice, and would probably have been crossed but for the selfish play on the part of Dibbs (N.S.W.) The attacks were, however, unavailing, and the game resulted in a win for the locals, the scores being Wellington 9 points New South Wales 5 points. Wyburn played a grand game for New South Wales among the forwards, and Carson also showed up well. Their backs did not however show to advantage, Galloway and Cobb being the best. The local backs were very disappointing, and Duncan and Davidson were the pick of them. Kelly and MacKenzie played a rattling game as wing forwards, the former showing out prominently, while Maher, Pringle and Swindley were the pick of the forwards. Much dissatisfaction has been expressed here at the non-inclusion of Gage and Kelly in the New Zealand team.