A STIFF TEST

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 707, 5 July 1929, Page 8

A STIFF TEST

THOSE lvho remember the rude shock that awaited the All Blacks at Sydney in 1 92(j will not be disposed to treat tomorrows Test match lightly. The team that made the trip three years aero was a very strong side. It included most of the stars of the famous 1924 team, and several others who, in the light of after events, were just as good, if not better, than some of the groat team which won every match in Britain. On paper, it wa> one of the strongest teams Xew Zealand ever sent abroad, hut it lost the first Test, and only won the others after a ' terribly hard struggle. I he team, which played a draw with Xew South Wales in the slush and mud ot the Sydney Cricket Ground last week, was a second best Xew Zealand side. Most of the stars of the South African tour were unable to make the trip. It did, however, appear fortunate that the ripe experience of three players of the calibre of Porter, Halley and Xepia was available for the tour. Now comes the disconcerting news that Porter will not be able to lead the team. It is even possible lie may not be able to play at all on tour. In addition to that, even if Dailey and Xepia are able to play on Saturday, they will be feeling the effects of recent injuries. It is occasions like this that provide lesser known lights .with their great opportunity. Xew Zealand is justly proud of the ability of its players to rise to the occasion. It was strikingly demonstrated in the fourth Test in Africa last year. Tomorrow, the All Blacks will meet the pick of the Rugby players of Xew South XV ales and Queensland, led by a player who, a few years ago, was justly ranked as one of the world’s greatest footballers. The big occasion will be there tomorrow. It. is well to consider what the All Blacks are up against, not in a pessimistic spirit, hut with a full realisation that, if they win, they will have proved worthy of the famous livery they wear; and if they are beaten, they will not be disgraced.