EVEN SENIOR CLASH

Chronicle (Levin), 22 July 1946, Page 7

EVEN SENIOR CLASH

SHANNON BEAT OTAKI Played in the presence of many interested spectators, and on a ground which was a quagmire in places, 1hc senior fixture at Otaki on Saturday saw Shannon beat Otaki by the narrow margin of eight points to three. The game was well contested, there being

very little difference between the teams. Both sides obtained an equul share of the scrums and line- ' outs. while the backs handled the heavy ball in excellent ' style, the game being punc.tuated with crisp passi'ng movements. Shannon set the ball in motion, but it was returned to half-way. Shannon turned on some fine forward work, and then Otaki attacked with a bright passing rush. While in foreign territory Huff had an unsuccessful shot at goal in the hope of opening Otaki's account. Chester. with Higgott in support, broke away and the game was taken to the Otaki line, where a hard tussle ensued. Despite Otaki's strong defence, H. Ellison forced his way over for a well-deserved try, and Fuller converted with a good kick. Shannon 5, Otaki nil. Spurred by this reverse, Otaki endeavoured to equalise' the score, but Shannon, playing with considerable dash, again attacked. Only sound defensive work by Huff saved. Fuller had an unsuccessful place at goal, which just went outside the upright. At this stage both sides were playing with dash, and while on attack an infringement by ■ Shannon . igayq, .TJom, ,pray/T p, shqh at aoal. Although well out, he piloted

the ball nicely over the bar. Shan- : n on 5, Otaki 3. Bright forward play followed, with occasional dashes by the backs of both sides, but frequently Otaki were penalised by off-side play, being too anxious to overtake Shannon 's score. Fuller was entrusted with anotner kick at goal, but failed to gain points. Half-time came with . the score unchanged. The second spell was even more interesting than the first, and Otaki had the advantage territorily, but the solid defensive play of Shannon held them back. despite frantic attempts by Otaki to score. Some good runs were made by both sides, the backs doing well, while the forwards continued to iplay with vigour. Early in the half light rain fell, which did not improve the ground. Then H. Ellison went over for his second try, but Fuller failed to increase the score. Shannon 8, Otaki 3. The game continued hard to the final whistle, with the score unchanged. For Otaki no fault could be found with any of the players, but the absence of Arda Hakaraia made a. big difference to his side. The forwards worked hard, but some were over-anxious, and consequently were penalised for off-side play. The Shannon pack proved a very even one, while the backs gave a good exhibition of open football. Had the ground been dry no doubt the game would have been even faster than it was.