HOCKEY.

Putaruru Press, Volume VI, Issue 248, 2 August 1928, Page 8

HOCKEY.

PUTARURU* v. KIA ORA. A weakened Putaruru team met a strengthened Kia Ora side on Saturday, and a fast, hard game resulted in a draw, neither side being able to score. The home forwards were the weakest part of the side, and as a line gave the poorest exhibition for some time. With the exception of Miss Rolfe none of the insides shone in the circle, and all hung too far back, six or seven glorious chances from centres going astray for this reason. Miss Wheeler, as bully, was not up to form, and did the bulk of her work on defence. Miss J. Sneddon at outside left did good work, but failed to get her centres across when the circle was reached. For a first appearance Miss N. Benton showed promise, but did not keep up far enough to take her partner’s passes. The half-back line was good, Miss O. Benton appearing for the first time as centre, playing solidly, and at times coming right through in an endeavour to force a goal. She tired somewhat towards the end, however. Miss E. Rolfe dominated her wing, and passed with judgment, while some of her crosses from the line to the circle were brilliant efforts. Miss Miller on the left was not overshadowed by tile Kia Ora crack winger, and continues to improve. Her hitting, however, lacks power. The fullbacks played soundly, and dealt with attacks so efficiently that Miss Iremonger in goal had little to do. The improvement in the native side is most marked, but they are still inclined to roam from their positions too much. Their hitting and tackling was very powerful, and largely secured them a share in the honours of the game. The Putaruru team was:—Goal, Miss Iremonger; backs, Mrs. Brown and Miss Gallagher; halves, Miss E. Rolfe, Miss O. Benton and Miss L. Miller; forwards, Misses N. Benton, M. Rolfe, E. Wheeler, N. and J. Sneddon.