FOOTBALL.

Matamata Record, Volume II, Issue 90, 11 July 1918, Page 2

FOOTBALL.

Matamata 21 v. Okauia 3. Teams representing Matamata and Okauia met on the Matamata recreation ground on Saturday last, and, despite the fact that it rained throughout the time of the game, the attendance was good. Matamata secured a lead of three points in the first quarter through fast following up, Morrow getting over with the ball. Just before half time T. Douglas, for the “mineral water men,” dribbled the ball from over the half-way line and equalised the scores. From the time of re-commenc-ing the Okauia players seemed to fall right away. They put plenty of energy in their game, but lack of practise meant inaccuracy, and although the team contained men with a distinct knowledge of the game yet several of them could not show their ability. A slippery ball did not assist them either. Fred. Connell, for Matamata, essayed a run through on his own, and got to within a few yards of the line when he passed to Morrow, who again scored. Findlay converted. In the final quarter the last mentioned player scored a penalty goal, a try and a converted goal. S. Kirk and Donaldson also scored tries for Matamata. Donaldson at half-back was playing) bis first game for the black and whites, and. although light, demonstrated himself as acquisition. Fred, and Les. Connell and Morrow played improved games. Holmes, Stewart and Findlay were, as usual, good. For Ckauia the three Douglas brothers were a great strength. Two of these players at least should be included in the representative team. Sutherland was a tower of strength, and saved scores on several occasions. Mr A. H. Douglas was less fond of the whistle than some referees, and gave satisfaction to both players and spectators. The following team will represent Matamata in a match against Kereone at Matamata on Saturday: Fred. Connell, G. Findlay, C. Stewart, H. Sutherland, J. Wallace, S. Kirk, Donaldson, W. Douglas, 0. Bailey, T. Douglas, L. Connell, F. Holmes, M. Scott, R. Radford, R. Fissenden. Emergencies : W. Burnitt, T. Baxendine, Morrow and Dixon.