FOOTBALL.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXIII, Issue 9111, 2 April 1908, Page 5

FOOTBALL.

THE PROFESSIONAL TOUR.

CLOSING MATCH, Press Association—Copyright. Sydney, April 1. The New Zealand professional footballers brought their tour to a close by achieving a brilliant victory over St. Helens. The visitors showed splendid form. They had to play against a gale of wind in the first half and were compelled to act for the most part on the defensive, and at one time had a deficit of ten points. The whole aspect was changed in the second spell by the accurate passing and straight running of the Colonial backs, who were much too clever for the opposition. Tries were scored by Tyler, Baskerville, Wynyard (two), Tyne (three). Goals were kicked by Messenger. THE TEAM AT FREMANTLE. DEPRECIATION OF “ALL BLACKS.” Fremantle, April 1. The majority of the New Zealand football team arrived by the Mongolia. Mr Palmer, the manager, stated that the team were splendidly received during their tour, but some jealousy was shown by amateur teams, and the rules inconvenienced the visitors. Professional Rugby was too far ahead of amateur for any comparison to be made. Any of the good New Zealand clubs could beat the teams that the All Blacks defeated. The finest players in England are in the Northern Union. Before sailing for home the team will give the New South Wales team some hints on the rules that will assist any team going to England. The matches played were strenuous and the grounds in very bad condition. Mr Palmer denies the allegations of undue rough play. The Northern Union expressed its appreciation of the results of the tour. WELLINGTON RUGBY UNION. Per Press Association. Wellington, April 1. At a meeting of the Wellington Rugby Union resolution was passed declaring it to be an act of professionalism for any player to receive direct monetary consideration for playing football. A number of other resolutions were adopted relating to acts of professionalism by individuals or clubs. It was decided to forward the resolutions to the New Zealand Rugby Union for consideration. MARTON V. BULLS. A match was played at Marton yesterday between the above. The visitors played with thirteen men and gave their opponents a good game. Being the first match of the season fair form was shown on both sides. The game ended in a draw, neither side scoring Judging by the form both teams have every prospect of strong senior combinations for the shield contest this season. The game was played on Mr Pawson’s ground, which was in good order. The Rev. Father Molloy proved a capable referee.