BIG WIN FOR HOME SIDE AT ROTORUA

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 154, 20 September 1927, Page 9

BIG WIN FOR HOME SIDE AT ROTORUA

The senior representatives of Paeroa and Rotorua tried conclusions at Rotorua on Saturday last, the game resulting in a win for Rotorua by 26 points (seven tries, one converted, and a penalty goal) to 3 (a penalty goal). Paeroa won the toss, playing with a strong wind behind them. Even play ensued until late in the spell, when Paeroa attacked strongly. They were awarded a penalty in front of the goalposts, which was turned to account. Paeroa 3, Rotorua 0. In the second quarter Rotorua livened up and played with more dash. The equalising points came from a penalty goal by Mason. Paeroa 3, Rotorua 3. A bright passing rush by the whole of Rotorua’s backs ended in Davies scoring in the corner. The kick failed. Continuing the attack, Scott scored from a forward rush. Rotorua 9, Paeroa 3. The third quarter saw Paeroa endeavouring to increase their total, but the stalwart defence of Simmonds and Reid kept them out. The quarter ended with no increase in the score.

The final quarter saw Rotorua increase their score by 17 points. The best try of the day was scored by Pini Haupapa, Rotorua’s skipper, and the ex-Maori All Black. Getting possession at the quarter flag he sold a dummy to the whole of the defence to score under the posts. The kick failed. Rotorua 12, Paeroa 3. Tries quickly followed by Sheaf, McLaren, Davies and Parsons. Mitchell converting one.

For Rotorua, Reid, Simmonds, Davies, Mitchell, and Steele played good games in the backs> while Haupapa, Mason, Scott and Parsons (2) and Sheaf were the pick of the forwards.

Masters, the Paeroa skipper, was the pick of his team, being very solid on both attack and defence.