FOOTBALL.

Horowhenua Chronicle, 20 July 1910, Page 2

FOOTBALL.

THE MAORI MATCH

AN INTERESTING CRITICISM

A correspondent who signs himself "Experienced," writes:— The combined team to represent Maiwnvatii and llorowhenua combined against the Maoris on Saturday, can hardly bo said to bo the strolvgest avaiitable.

Hughes (full-back), W.iniata and Cook (three-quarters), Coote (fiveeight) and Ongley (half), in the hack division could not be improved upon, but Hopu and llamsden are weak, ajid could eastily have been replaced by Briscoe and Royal. Hopu takes a, ball well and is a good kick and strong Winner, but is unable to pass, amd has a fatal tendency to run into his man. IJriseoe is bis equal at fielding and kicking, not quite so fast, but uses his head with advantage. Ramsden takes a ball well and passes accurately, but does not mako t openings, Royal is quite as safe If not safer, .and understands how to cut in.

Ropata is in his place at wing. The front rankers should both have been the Manawatu men, who absolutely outclassed' the Horowhentia "'hookers." McNae is a solid pivot awl good all-round forward, while Pa rata and Carroll, second row. ate a pair of forwards with plenty of weight, equally at home in a_ rush amongst the 'forwards or passing in the hacks. Both have represented their d|isMc|fi in the hack division. The hack row men selected are the weakest part of tiho team, and should have been replaced by Close iuhl George, A pair of dashing forwards, very fast ill tho open, and extremely dangerous in attack.