FOOTBALL.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXI, Issue 462, 15 June 1909, Page 3

FOOTBALL.

The most important senior fixture played under the SubUnion’s jurisdiction so far this season, took place on the racecourse on Saturday last, between Awahou and Albions. The teams had previously met this season, when the pioneer club defeated Albions by eight points to nil., On Saturday Awahous were again victorious by eight points (a goal from a try and a penalty goal) to three (a penalty goal). The game was very closely contested, but principally confined to the forward divisions. The finer points of the game, which are the outcome of methodical training and combination, were absent. The game throughout was slightly in favour of Awahous, but the best undeveloped material is undoubtedly to be found in the Albion ranks, which possess in G. Dunn, (Nepia) and Futrie dashing and clever backs. Dunn played by far the best back game on the fieid. Bird, for Awahou, also played a prominent back game, and the try he scored was the most exciting and cleverest piece of]play during the game. F. Robinson kicked a penalty goal for Awahou and converted Bird’s try. Furrie kicked a penalty goal for Albions, Dr Adams refereed.

A correspondent asks the Sydney Referee which country could place the finest rugby filteeu in the field. The answer is : “This question is a matter about which opinions will vary very much, though I should not hesitate to plump for New Zealand. Under equal conditions I fancy New Zealand against Wales every time.”

In a Club match in Wales the other day there was an attendance of 25,000! Cardiff was playing London Barbarians.

Wellington is rich in first-class scrummagers this season, but, with few exceptions, the backs are nothing sensational. Mitchiuson and Roberts, of All Black fame, are playing well up to form.

Vassall, of the recent British team in New Zealand, played brilliantly against Cardiff the other day. The Oxford centre was “great” in attack and defence.

Cardiff, which includes amongst players known in New Zealand : Dyke, Johnnie Williams, Willie Morgan, and Percy Bush, has again won the Welsh championship for the season.

W. Tyler, who was a member of the pro. Black team that went Home to play under Northern Union rules, is now playing the the Australian game in Auckland, being one of the Eden Clubls best men.