HOCKEY

Hokitika Guardian, 2 September 1930, Page 5

HOCKEY

INVERCARGILL TOURNEY.

Referring to Saturday’s games a report states, the North Otago and West Coast teams were very evenly matched and, considering that they are new to tournament play, they played good hockey. At half time West. Coast led by one goal to nil, Miss M. Sumner having scored. North Otago had the better the second spell but had to be content with a goal by Miss A. Wills. The star attraction of the afternoon was undoubtedly the match between Southland A (holders of the K Cup) and Otago, who were reputed to be formidable challengers. Great interest centred around this game, and the large crowd of spectators were treated to a keen and exciting struggle, in which each eleven strove mightly for supremacy. Both teams showed good stick work, the tackling was sound, and the play generally was fast. Good combination was frequently in evidence, and the sparkling exhibition kept spectators on the qui vive throughout. The Otago players frequently assailed the Maroons' danger zone in the first spell, and it was only the sound defensive work of the Southland halves and full-backs that kept the visiting vanguard at bay. Otago certainly lived up to the reputation that heralded their visit, and on the day’s play were unlucky in not making a draw of the game. ‘ Certainly there was little to choose between the two elevens, and the issue was in doubt right up to the final whistle. In the second spell the Maroons rose to the occasion valiantly, and livened up their play. Strong attacks were launched into the visitors’ territory. The Southland vanguard combined in some .desperate efforts which swept right through to harrnss the defence. Excitement ran high when M. Clark put her side ahead, and, although Otago embarked upon many dangerous movements the defence stood stout to give the Maroons la well-deserved victory. Mr .T. Rutland was one of the referees m this important match.