NOTES ON THE PLAYERS

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 429, 10 May 1937, Page 2

NOTES ON THE PLAYERS

(By “Grahdstand.”) The hero of the match against Clifton was R. Cuff, a newcomer to the ranks of the seniors who scored three tries in great style. Granted that he was well fed by his centre (Ross), it must be admitted that he put sucli dash into his runs as would have done credit to many an older player in the position of a winger. He can gather up a lot of pace, and because he knows when to make use of it he must prove dangerous to his opponents on any attacking movement.

Lehmann at five-eighths and Sangster at half were in good form, the former making several bright dashes through the yellows. Collins was just as serviceable at all times as of yore. Ross was a well marked man but played a useful game in the centre. Rowlands put in some fine runs, though not so prominent as usual owing to the opposition. Robson at fullback was inclined to get out of position at times, but kicked with good judgment.

When Roger Young left the field owing to a severe bump on the head, the red and blacks did not show the same superiority on line-outs as when he was in the line. The forwards played up to their reputation as champions in the loose, and have yet to meet their superiors in the competition. They were well beaten by the yellow hookers, but could well afford not to be worried about it. as all they appeared to desire was the opportunity to participate in the hunt in the open. At any rate the zest they infused into these runs at times was unmistakable. Fastier was the only forward to score, and he deserved it for keeping on the ball. Bird, as a young member of the pack gives promise of making his selection sure. All the others hunted with the eagerness of a pack at the top of its form.

Potaka was outstanding in the Clifton team, and played even a better game than on the previous Saturday against United. His fielding and passing was a treat to witness, and despite heaps of disappointments and rebuffs he never let up for a moment. * * * M. Sangster did a deal of good defensive work. Courtney was given little chance to feed his wings, as the opposition displayed much aggressiveness. Fenton was successful in passing from the scrums. * * * The in the front gf the scrum achieved a triumphal job hooking smartly and cleanly. For thensake alone, it is a pity the backs had not been more successful. There was not the difference between the two packs as the respective total scores would indicate.