FOOTBALL.

Hokitika Guardian, 16 June 1928, Page 4

FOOTBALL.

FRENCH. RUGBY WIN. FRANCE 8, WALES 3. PARIS, April 10. For the first time since the series of international Rugby matches began 20 years ago between Wales and France, the Principality was defeated to-day at the Olympic Stadium, Colombes, near Paris, the score in France’s favour being a goal and a try to a try. The gamo was played in beautiful weather before an attendance that was little short of 50,000. It was largely a holiday crowd, and included a strong leaven of Welshmen.

On the run of the play the Frenchmen were the better side and their victory was well earned. Much was expected from the Welsh forwards, but except for one or two brief periods, it was the French pack that dominated the situation, their work in the loose' being characterised by greater speed and dash. Had the French three quarters not thrown away a couple of chances early in the second half, the home side might have won by a greater margin.

They were unfortunate to lose Camel the Tarbais forward, who broke his collarbone after half an hour’s play It was during a period of Welsh pressure towards the close of the first half that the visitors scored their only points. A French player, in trying to find touch, kicked the ball low into the hands of J. Roberts, who ran in without meeting much opposition. The kick at goal failed.

On the resumption the Frenchmen played "with redoubled vigour. Following a scrum in midfield, Dupont started a concerted movement by the backs, and the ball coming to Houdet, of the Stade Francois, that player scored France’s first try. There.were frequent stoppages owing to injuries. The Welsh forwards were showing to better advantage, and, following one determined rush by them, Franco was forced to touch down.

About ten minutes from the close the French pack went away, the ball going to Houdet, who raced away to ground it between the posts. A goal resulted.

Thus it was partly Houdet’s match. Both his tries were masterpieces, and he was easily the most outstanding player on the field. By this victory . France has now .succeeded in winning one or tnoro matches against each of the British international combinations. Until today Wales had won 15 matches out of J.j played.