BETTER TEAM WON

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 739, 12 August 1929, Page 7

BETTER TEAM WON

INTER COLONIAL HOCKEY DINNER TO AUSTRALIANS A dinner to members of the Australian and New Zealand teams which took part in the hockey test match was given by the Auckland Hockey Association in the Commercial Hotel on Saturday evening and the teams were later entertained at St. James Theatre. In welcoming the Australians the president of the association, Mr. L. C. Kent, said the visit was the third of an Australian side to this country and there was no doubt the standard of the game had improved over the other side. Proposing the toast of the Australian Hockey Association and that of the team, the patron, Mr. Eliot Davis, also extended a welcome. The team's record of six wins, two draws and three losses was one it might be proud of. The tour would do a great deal to foster the game among the minor associations of the Dominion in particular, and in general would make for its progress in both countries. Replying, the manager of the touring team, Mr. W. Rothwell, said his only regret was £hat it had not been possible to arrange a match against Auckland Province. The team had had a most enjoyable tour and had been cordially received everywhere.

“I feel disappointed that we did not win the test/’ said Mr. Rothwell, “but the better team won. We realise the | winners fully represent the strength of New Zealand hockey. I extend my congratulations on your victory.” Ho returned thanks for the hospitality arranged both by the New Zealand and Auckland Hockey Associations. Mr. H. Cormie, captain of the Australians. also congratulated New Zealand. He felt the better team had undoubtedly won. His side would rather have had a better ground, but nobody could help that. Mr. E. McLeod, captain of the New Zealanders, said he considered the difference between the teams was not as great as the margin of two goals suggested. He and his team would have had great pleasure in seeing Australia win. Mr. R. J. Thompson, of Wanganui, manager of the New Zealand eleven, referred to the Australians as the best side which had ever left Australia in the interests of hockey, both from the social and playing standpoint. The play was good in view of the fact that Australia was comparatively new to the game. Australia should also have been inscribed on the Manning Memorial Cup in 1927 because the effect of the tests over there was a draw. Other toasts honoured were those of “The New Zealand Hockey Association and Team,” “The Auckland Hockey Association” and “The Referees.” The Australians will return by the Makura tomorrow.