FOOT BALL MATCH.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 37, 7 October 1871, Page 4

FOOT BALL MATCH.

NELSON Y. WELLINGTON. The following is a general outline of the game which took place on Friday, September 29, between the Wellington and Nelson Football Clubs i—cr. The goals were placed about north and south across the Cricket Ground, and were about 160 yards apart. The Nelson team won the choice for goals, and took possession of the goal which had the wind in its favor, the Wellington team having first kick off. The arrangement was that goals should be changed every half hour, during the two hours’ play. The appearance of the two teams was very good, but they were of a very different composition, the Nelson lot appearing much slighter than the Wellingtonians. The Nelsonians appeared much the smarter of the two, having on magenta stockings, velvet caps with magenta tassels, and white jerseys a nickerbocker. The Wellingtonians had only a distinguishing jersey, black and white stripes, but one which has gone through all its contests without suffering defeat. During the first half-hour, all seemed to favor the Nelson players—wind, play, and all the smaller incidents which so greatly aid in getting a game—and, indeed, there were those who prophesied that there would be cause for much lamentation on the part of the Wellingtonians, who were, however, encouraged by their captain, and renewed their efforts, and succeeded in working the ball up to the opposite goal, but only to be sent back again quicker than it went. This about completed the first half-hour, and, consequently, when “ time ” was called the goals were changed, and the Wellingtonians now had the wind at their back instead of, as at first, against them. The difference was at once perceptible and ifter a considerable number of changes, tumbles, and scrimmages, they succeeded in gaining a touch down behind goal, which was done very cleverly by Mr Arthur, who then took the ball out fifteen yards and held it for Mr Isherwood, who made a splendid and exceedingly difficult trial, across the wind and ground at the goal, the ball being just blown about two feet outside the poles. Thus, after one hour’s hard and determined struggle, neither side succeeded in gaining a goal. And, on time being called a second time, the Nelsonians again had the wind in their favor. During this half-hour some splendid play was shown by members of both sides, but the heaviness of the ground and the greater weight and strength of the Wellingtonians began to tell heavily on their opponents, who were showing signs of fatigue. The only goal obtained was now gained by the Wellingtonians. As this was a pretty piece of play, we describe it as accurately as possible. Mr. Park, having gained possession of the ball, ran through many of the Nelson men, and succeeded in making a touch behind goal. The ball was then re-touched by Mr. Isherwood, who was not to be persuaded to make a trial at the goal, but, instead, “ punted the ball out ” to his own side, who were on the watch. Having done so, Mr. Arthur succeeded in gaining possession of it, and in less time than it takes to write it, had dashed through the ranks of the Nelsons and touched it down, well behind the Nelson goal, for a third time gaining another trial. This trial was taken advantage of by Captain Isherwood, who sent the ball flying over the goal posts with a beautiful place kick, which was held by Mr. Arthur. Soon after this, time was called for a third time, thus leaving only half an hour more to play in; the Nelson men freshening up to gain a goal, and their opponents equally determined not to allow it. Indeed, to speak candidly, it was a really desperate struggle, and we are sorry to have to record the fact of Mr. Yickerman, of the Nelson team, having to be carried off the field insensible; there were many wounds given and received, which it will take weeks to obliterate, and a broken tooth was by no means the worst of the casualties. The loss of one of the Nelsonians was much to be regretted, as it is always a strict rule that in such cases no substitutes are allowed, but it also gave an opportunity to them for displaying that pluck which characterises an Englishman, in succeeding, if anything, better when placed at a disadvantage.

Among the large assembly of visitors were Sir George and Lady Bowen. His Excellency being on horse*back was not so readily distinguished as Lady Bowen, who arrived on the ground in her carriage, and was greeted with loud cheers. The ladies of Wellington mustered unusually strong on the occasion, and seemed one and all to enter into the fun and spirit of the game thoroughly. In conclusion, we must congratulate both teams on the manner in which the game was contested, and for the very good humor under what would appear the most trying of all circumstances, being kicked on the shins. We will not mention any names as being beyond others in good play, &c., but say all did their very best.