FOOTBALL.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXIX, Issue 3769, 9 July 1907, Page 3

FOOTBALL.

A Close Game.

Albions put a strong team into the field on Saturday last, and made things very interesting for Awahou, who eventually won an evenly contested game by seven points (a potted goal and a try) to three points (a try). There was a large crowd of spectators to witness the event, and judging by the enthusiasm displayed, all must have been satisfied with the exhibition, which, in fact, could not compare with the Albion-Sandon game of a few weeks back —at all events, from a spectator’s point of view. One thing is certain, that the Awahou forward rushes of the previous Saturday were missing, due, no doubt, to the fact that their opponents were of a better and more sturdy class. The vim and vigour of the Blacks as displayed against Saudon appeared dormant in the early stages of the tussel.'and it is well that their training and combination stood them in good stead at the business end, as Albions proved beyond doubt that they had the material to prove victors had they played with some method and training. However, that is no excuse; it is a fault. which could be rectified only by themselves, and for which they (Albions) have themselves to blame. In the tight work Albions held their own, but in the loose, credit must be given to th* Awahou pack, who worked with a system. As to the backs. I am of opinion that Albions may have scored on two more occasions, had Tawhai sent the ball out smartly from the scrum, instead of attempting to break through an almost impregnable pack. If he wishes to set his backs in motion, he must not wait until the opportunity is lost, nor try to cut through wing forwards who were presumably coached to put a stop to such tactics. Such a practice often pays when near the line, but the Albion half acted unwisely in persistently attempting to bring off so many impossible coups. His backs could have done better with the leather. As it was, Momo missed many chances to open up brilliant football at five-eight. _ This player shone in defence, whilst M, Royal, Frankland, and Cook played well, though Fred Robinson ,was not at his best. Mullins (wing forward) is one who knows his position, and while his condition lasted he impressed on-lookers with his general display. I understand this is his first game for two 3’ears. Mick Cook, Chalk, Bowe, Pete Larkins, and Hunter were others to shine at times. Of the Awahous, Sid Wright was the most conspicuous forward on the ground, though he has still that tendency to play offside, which often comes off. W. Robinson, Hooker, J. Coley, and Shea Shea were other honest workers in the pack. Shadbolt was a lair glutton for work in the backs, while Osboldstone and Reihana were the best of the other backs. Jimmy Dunn may have done better, while Woodford saved bis side from danger on tw'o conspicuous occasions. Wilson, we have not seen the best of yet. Tne play which led up to try scored by Frankland for Albion was a pretty piece of work, the ball passing through several hands, prior to the score. Reihana’s try for Awahou was something of a similar nature, while Osboldstone’s potted goal for Awahou won credit from all sides. Mr F. Woods acted impartially in the capacity of referee.

At a meeting of the Foxton SubUnion, it was decided that efforts be made to secure a cup for the second team in the competition.

The arrangements for rep. matches was left in the hands of the secretary.

The minutes of previous meeting relative to matches in dispute being replayed were confirmed. Sandon ' Club players were granted lull expenses in connection with recent rep. matches. The drawing of the concluding fixtures in senior competition took up much time, the following eventually being agreed upon : July 13—Sandon v. Albion, at Sandon ; Mr Bowater. Awahou v. Rongotea, at Foxton; Mr Woods.

July 20 —Sandon v. Awahou, at Foxton ; Mr Bowater.

Albions intend entering a team for the Abraham Cup Tourney at Palmerston. Awahou will probably follow suit. The following will represent Albions in their match against Sandon at Sandon, on Saturday : F. Robinson, J. Frankland, Momo, Aonui, J. Williams, Roore, Matt Royal, Curtis, Chalk, A. Tartana, Howan, Hunter, D. Mullins, Bowe, Broad, Pate Larkins ; emergs.: Bona, Tawhai, J. Walker, Roar Larkins, Haeana Wi. The All Black team which is to tour Australia, defeated Wellington Province on Saturday last by 19 points to 6. The Blacks gave a splendid exposition of Rugby and it is anticipated that the tour will be a most successful one.