FOOTBALL.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2101, 29 January 1908, Page 3

FOOTBALL.

N.Z. PROFESSIONALS AT HOME. A GREAT GAME. United Press Association— Copyright (Received Jan. 29, 0.30. a.m.) SIDNEY, Jan. 28. After one of the keenest and most exciting matches seen on the Warrington ground this season, the New Zealanders were beaten by Warungtou by one point. Except that Smith was absent, the New Zealanders put file strongest team into the field, and Warrington had their best team, lhe ground was slippery, and at the outset it looked as if the colonials would ho routed, but suddenly they improved, and opened their score with a splendid goal kicked by Messenger from near the touch line. The visi-tors-pressed hotly, and Rowe, taking a pass from Wynyard, got close to the line, and then passed to Messenger, who dodged his opponent and ran behind the posts Messenger kicked the goal, giving the New Zealanucrs a couple of points load, which they held till half-time. In the second spell AYarriimton attacked continuously, but the All Blacks gave a superb exhibition of defensive play. Scrummage after scrummage took place on their line, and it seemed every moment as if the visitors must lose their lead, but Wrigley, Turtell, and Mesrenger tackled in such wonderful style that the Homo attacks came to i nought. At length a flaw was found !.in the defence, and Lees gob away

from a sormn and passed to lay lor, who amid a. scono of wild enthusiasm crossed the lino. Just before the finish Messenger almost snatched a victory. ’kicking a trifle short- lrom a penalty near midfield.