SOCCER

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLVII, Issue 2909, 14 July 1925, Page 3

SOCCER

SENSATIONAL SURPRISE,

ATHLETIC MEET THEIR WATERLOO.

What was regarded as a foregone conclusion for Athletic on Saturday last proved itself to be the most sensational match of the season. The seasiders travelled to 'meet the crack town team (Athletic), in a combined Chatham Cup and League fixture. The ground bore more resemblance to a duckpond than to a football field. Foxton, however, put up a stern fight, bringing the game to a goalless draw, but with the points of the play in their favour. Foxton won the toss, and immediately pressed, their five forwards working well. Over-eagerness led to off-side play, which spoilt a brilliant movement. Gaining possession, the left wing carried the sphere down, but a good shot, and a certain goal, went begging. Athletic commenced attacking, per medium of and Davies, but a resultant corner gave no advantage. Mid-field play ensued, both sides doing well, but Foxton in the main were unlucky, although they had the advantage of the play. Ship, in goal for Foxton, was as safe as the proverbial Bank of England, and with G. Mounsey and Smith in front of him, the blue supporters had nothing to fear. The half-time whistle went witli no score for either side.

After the “breather,” Foxton made two exceptionally brilliant efforts, which should have given them the lead. McKinley, Athletic’s custodian, saving in great style. The sphere then travelled up the left wing, from Ferric to J. MeKnight, and then to Nixon, who was ruled off-side —which was .considered a wrong decision. But for this a goal would most probably have resulted. The black forwards then made repeated attempts, but Ship was not to be beaten, and saved shots which should have made a difference in the score. Foxton’s right wing then c-ame into play, James and Winsianlev combining, resulting in the, latter putting in a great angle shot. From then to the

remainder of the spell Foxton forced the pace, but the whistle went with no score.

The League points were divided, and in the “muddy way” the teams lined up for a final twenty minutes to decide the Chatham Cup issue, this in the failing light being decided by Hearsey and Wheeler, who both contributed to the score, leaving it three —nil in favour of .Athletic.

Mr J. Forbes controlled the whistle.