FOOTBALL.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 1943, 17 May 1880, Page 3

FOOTBALL.

The first match of the season under be auspices of the Canterbury Rugby Union took place on Saturday, when two combined fifteens met to try conclusions on Oranmer square, one under the generalship of Mr Mill ton, and the other captained by Mr B. G. Hawkes. The latter’s team (red and yellow uniform) took the kick off, and for some little time penned their opponents (blues) a good deal, some well-packed scrimmages close on the Blue’s goal line resulting in Ataok and Harman getting a touch-down between them. The ball was taken out the usual distance, but the player failing to make his mark on the line, Lewin rushed him and spoilt the chance of a try at goal. From this to nearly the end of the third spell the play was very even on both sides, and though on one or two occasions each goal was in danger, so well did the players keep together that the ball was removed to a safe part of the ground in each instance before any definite result could be gained. The Blues, however, were once compelled to touch down in self-defence, some good play on the part of Parker and Buie resulting in the ball being sent well over the goal line. Soon after this a stiff wind sprung up greatly in favor of the Blues, and apparently determined to take every advantage of it, they kept well on the ball, and a good deal of close play ensued in the Red quarters. Finally, Williams got well away, and by a fine run carried the ball over the line and secured a touch down. The try was entrusted to Boys, but he was unsuccessful. Time was then called, and as some of the players had to leave it was decided not to continue the game, and what had been a capitally contested match so far, was declared a draw. The play throughout was very even on both sides. The Reds generally appeared to be a little stronger forward, but as they were playing during the latter part of the game with two men less than the Blues, the latter were able to successfully hold their own in this department, whilst their back play was fully equal to that of their opponents. Indeed, the back play on both sides was a great improvement on that shown on Cranmer square in several previous matches this season.