New Long Pass Demonstrated

Press, Volume XCV, Issue 28260, 24 April 1957, Page 15

New Long Pass Demonstrated

The one-handed spiralled pass from the half-back, originated by Mr W. Scullion, was tried out by the Wellington representative half-back, A. J. Makeham, in the first round of the Wellington union’s Jubilee Cup series, with mixed results. Reports from Wellington indicate that Makeham has not developed the skill to a high degree, but that on several occasions the value of the longer pass was amply demonstrated. The major problem half-backs will have to contend with—as Makeham had to—was accuracy. It is obvious that to become proficient at throwing out the onehanded spiral pass half-backs will have to practise and practise hard. The pass itself, and the results that the longer pass can bring are, however, worth the practice. The greatest value the pass has is the distance it can be thrown. Because of its greater length the first five-eighths is little troubled by loose forwards and the ball can travel along the line faster before opposing backs are in a position to tackle. This was demonstrated in the Poneke-Wel-lington College OlcT Boys’ game. Because of Makeham’s long pass at least one try was scored. The longer pass also tends to spread the defence line a little wider in expectation with the result that the half-back is given a little more latitude.

If Makeham can perfect this pass in his club matches this season his combination with J. G. Dougan in the Wellington team should be a particularly strong one.