Association Football.

Hutt News, Volume 6, Issue 6, 17 June 1927, Page 7

Association Football.

(By "Critic")

HUTT v. PETONE.

These teams met on Hutt Recreation Ground last Saturday and resulted in a win for Petone by 6 goals to 1. The writer would like to congratulate the Petone team on its all-round display of Soccer football, and thinks the right back and centre half should be included in future teams selected to represent Wellington.. The Hutt team, although defeated, were by no means disgraced, and some fine foot work was shown by the local players. Stevenson in goal made a few fine saves and cleared in fine style, but had no chance with goals got by Petone. Potts at left full back quite played up to his usual good game, but as mentioned in these columns before he should be playing left half if another left back could be found. The left half was patchy, and up against such .fine forwards his weakness was noticeable. Green at centre forward seemed to lac off his game, the reason no doubt being the opposition was too strong, as the opposing centre half was the best defender of the Petone team. Batchelor was a more dangerous man at centre forward than outside right, and if he can place himself in that position he should certainly do so. Green could be tried at outside right and would be found to be a good substitute for his captain in that position. The Hutt .team have no occasion to be downhearted over their defeat, as "Critic" believes Petone will take a lot of defeating even from teams in the Senior A division. Our centre half and inside right played great games; these two players are a tower of strength to the Hutt 1 Club.

McLennan, inside left, played his usual heady game and is to be congratulated on obtaining the team's only goal. What pleased the writer was the way the team stuck to their hard task and played tirelessly up to the finish. Howie, who is selected as reserve week by week, could be given a trial, and no doubt would add strength to the team. This player in the past played many good games, and I trust the selectors will again find him a place and I am sure he will justify the writer's confidence. Petone had a good following of supporters, and in the near future our town team will be supported likewise. . Many remarks were heard from followers of other codes which were quite -encouraging to our local players. If the Hutt can maintain the standard of football they are playing, then the future for the round ball game here is assured. Logic, right full back, xiid much fine work, but at times seemed to try to beat .an opponent by footwork when he should clear. There are times when clever footwork is appreciated, but a full back's duty is to clear as. soon as possible. I know a footballer of this full back's standing knows all this, but is apt to forget when actually on the field of play. Many onlookers of this game are looking forward to the next senior match on the Hutt Rec, when "Critic" hopes to record a win for the local club.