AT HOME IN MUD

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 428, 9 August 1928, Page 1

AT HOME IN MUD

ALL BLACKS’ IMPROVED COMBINATION McWilliams prominent According to the cable man there was only one back and one forward in the Border side worthy of mention. This would confirm the impression gained on reading the report of the previous game with this team, that the All Blacks were not pitted against a strong defensive side. [Nevertheless it is encouraging to note that the combination of the All Blacks has considerably improved, so much so that dropped passes and other mistakes of faulty handling appear to be becoming a thing of the past. On a wet paddock the New Zealanders would also feel much more at home, and would appreciate the change of ground conditions. To Aucklanders it will be pleasing to note that McWilliams has distinguished himself by another fine performance. Apparently McWilliams has benefited by the big football to develop into a very fine forward, and his place in the remaining test teams would seem to be assured. The only regrettable feature of today’s report is the indisposition of Alley. The big All Black lock has had a strenuous time, and judging from reports received from various sources has been playing a very useful game. With only nine days to go before the third test it would appear that his chances of playing in the big game are remote. If so, his services will be sadly missed, although a good substitute has now been found in Pat Ward. Saturday’s match will be against Eastern Province, at Port Elizabeth, where the team will rest for a week before taking the field for what should prove one of the hardest games of the ■ tour.