FOOTBALL.

Hokitika Guardian, 7 June 1920, Page 4

FOOTBALL.

EXCELSIORS v. KIWIS

„ 'Hie first match under the neivly constituted southern division of the West Coast Rugby Union took place on Cass Square on Saturday afternoon when Excelsior'and Kiwi teams met. The district, which comprises the whole of Westland, has six teams enteipd for the Aenior division, these comprising: Excelsiors and Kiwi, (Hokitika) ; Rimu, Ross, Kokatalii and Kumara. The game on Saturday between the two local teams resulted in a somewhat easy win for the Kiwi team, the score I being 22 points, (2 converted tries, a penalty goal, and three tries), to 3 points, (a try. The game was fairly interesting to watch, but both sides were fairly green, and the handling was not at all good except in a few individual exceptions. Excelsiors suffered most from this cause, opportunity after opportunity being lost by faulty handling. The winners had the services of “Doss” Irving, and his presence and example steadied up the back division consider ably, a couple of fine openings made by this player resulting in scores, while he kept his lads together, and with Duncraft playing a bright, intelligent game they had their opponents on the run most of the time.' The forwards were fairly matched, one or two on each side showing far above their fellows.

The winners scored a penalty goal and two tries (one converted), in the first spell, their opponents only try coming before half time. In the second half the game continued easily in the winners favour and there was no doubt as to the ultimate result, though both sides kept play going well up to no side being sounded. For the winners Duncraft (3), Stopfortli and Kortegast scored tiles, Duncraft and Irving converting, the former also kicking a penalty goal. Graham scored for the. Excelsiors. Mr Conning was referee.