FOOTBALL NOTES

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 220, 28 May 1917, Page 4

FOOTBALL NOTES

Th e first of a series of football matches to be held on the Recreation Grounds, Taihape, in aid of the Rod Cross and Soldiers’ Comfort Fund, took place on Saturday. Unfortunately for all concerned the weather conditions were the worst possible for players and spectators alike. This was unforturv ate in view of the trouble the Ohakune team wont to to visit Taihape. The match, which had aroused considerable interest, -was naturally viewed by only a handful of spectators, but it is to be hoped that the future contests will be played under more advantageous conditions and to greater benefit to the patriotic funds.

During the week the playing area had been marked and goal-posts erected by Messrs J. Ryan, T. McSweeney, Windsor and Stnudwick. Considering the amount of rain which fell the playing area was in good order. Both Ohakune and Taihape teams took the field with full strength, the Ohakune on appearance being the heavier team, and to the casual observer the more likely winner. Results, however, proved otherwise. The Taihape team were superior both back and forward, and during the whole course of the game the Taihape line was practically unassailed. Considering that this was the first game of the season, with no practice together, the Taihape team played rej markably well. The forwards obtained possession of the ball from practically every scrum, whilst on the linecut and in the loose they were also superior. The backs played with sur prising combination, and the greasy ball was handled with accuracy. All the backs played well, Maher perhaps being a shade better than the others. Amongst the forwards Windsor played the best games Tries for Taihape were scored by Windsor, McSweeney and Chase (2). McSweeney kicked a penalty goal and converted one try. The score, Taihape 37, Ohakune nil, fairly indicated the merits of the teams. The game, which was played in a sporting and friendly spirit, was ably controlled bj Mr. W. Kolsall, to the satisfaction of players of both teams. Messrs D. Biurell and E. Toll carried out the duties of line umpires.