THE RUGBY SEASON

Taupo Times, Volume I, Issue 24, 25 June 1952, Page 1

THE RUGBY SEASON

WAITAHANUI'S THIRD WIN Waitahanui 15 v. Hydro 0. United 3 v. Maroa 3. The first game, Waitahanui v. Hy- \ dro was a replica of the United- Hydro fixture played a fortnight earlier, as Hydro fielded a team which was not up to the strength of their opponents. However R. Williams, the Hydro hooker was the equal of his opponent M. Mihinui, and repeatedly raked the ball when his scrum was being pushed backwards. The Waitahanui backs had ample opportunity to amass a larger score, but through poor understanding between the half-back and first fiveeighth back play was limited. However, their centre-threequarter, T. Wall crossed the line for two quick tries in the first half, and paved the way for another when winger Jeff Blake scored near the posts, this try being converted. Half time: Waitahanui :•..... 11. Hydro .... 0 Only 3 points were added in the second half when M. Mihinui scored from a forward melee on the Hydro goal-line. Final score: Waitahanui 14. >' Hydro 0 i R. Beale full back for Waitahanui and G. Vedder his opposite played sound football with Beale ahead on defence. Drawn Game. The second game, United v. Maroa was a keenly-contested match with Maroa forwards proving supefior to the United pack. This game, though hard fought, was inclined to drabness as it was a forward tussle throughout. In the first half T. Tohara, Maroa first five-eighth kick- 5 ed. a splendid penalty, giving Maroa a lead by 3 points to nil which they retained until late in the second half. United at this stage seemed to arrive at a complete understanding among their team, and, for the last 15 minutes of the match turned on a first class display. United's half, D. Tomoana, fed his backline and from a strong rush J. Habib crossed for a good try after stumbling in evading the Maroa full back. This try was not converted. Kipa Hamilton, United wing threequarter, was unlucky in being forced into touch by R. Scymom the Maroa full back when he made two attempt^ to cross the goal line. A cheer arose from United suppoi*ters when their team was awarded a penalty in front of the posts but R. Rameka failed to raise the flags, the game ending in a draw 3-all. Mr Taylor was referee. Championship Points. The Championship Points at this stage are : —