THE FOOTBALL BATTLE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LI, Issue 175, 15 July 1908, Page 4

THE FOOTBALL BATTLE.

I;|||LBrtlTAlN V. TARANAKI. PREVIOUSiBRITISH TOURS. ' V ' TARAHAKi RECORDS OF THE PAST.

I«$"to New Plymouth toley Plymouth roads will | rtflic at the Recreation the "rubber" of I en .Britain and Taranaki £ J i'Tojday'» match marks itipg ti»tween an English n j present are even: a win i «F> drawn. .It is Wily I * r| fartonai of | fter. Both teams are in 1 e , The visitors have been j twelve*- for the match, in < pfeted strength of the lo- j times' "special," Mr I 1 ofthe Wanganui j 'Superheated steam ■ Mjngin« to-day. Every- \ tSved Jor the heavy TaraThat Was the feeling with atusraHy approached thetch, lor Taranaki are revery willing side this seainglishmen intend to be as . ' They are severely bent "batter province" a magof the coldssteel at New t Wednesday, so two not- , tin British weight divi.ttd Morgan, were "rested." hj, is the forward brigade, also, otherwise the team : one, particularly in the " ar of the Taranaki team d that so easy task has men, and they have been training during the past tint measure of combinau*l to success, but which [jog in the Taranaki.match ni, has been secured, close he game are sanguine that imphil'progress of the visthecked. ' pledged weakness of the is ill the link between its ree-quarter line, and it ; s Table line that Taranaki'; irobably be hurled, unless d happens and the wearers ' and black secure the ball . Without "giving away'' team's plans/it is safe to pes to checkmate the Brif attack have been worked possible, and the game will how. far these plans have f mapped out, always prose, all plans are not upset ler. Notwithstanding the the ground is in first-class very preparation has been commodate an enormous ertafariy no match in the has been witnessed under ything like so favorable -is ■ovided in New Plymouth, enienoe of the public, ticnrabl* ia town, at Messrs. Devon atreet, and at the Devon and Egmont streets, are procurable on the »ly. Hat-seekers need not imaL comfort for excite- - B. WyHe, of Wellington, will reCiPW- _■ ' .-. r, V" -ABHIVAL OP THE VISITORS. sif'ithe British team, accompanied jifcveral officials of the New Zealand nion, arrived in New Ply- I by last' night's mail train, and :* were tfßlcomed by a large crowd. Gibbs, t injured in the Wanganui I ■- iratdh, Suffering from bursting a bloods' Vessel uade theknee-cap, was unable to .walk, and had to be carried to a cab. gr&te others looked fit and well, but •~2piefeet£ (leg injury) and Ponty Jones shoulder) were so far mcap£j»«tated as to bs, excluded from to day's ;"4^»tn. Srt': An official welcome took place at the iSCtfterian Hotel bier, at wtich memiWrslat.the New Zealand Union, Taranalti- Union,. Taranaki team, Borough £ Council, and others were present. £, His WorsSup the Mayor (Mr. G. Tiseli) presided, and extended a very f'.'eordial welcome to the visitors on bc-f-Mt' of the town, concluding by pro- i Imposing tfce bealtih of the team, iviik-h I was duly honored. "Mr HSrtnett, manager of the team, '•'jjnd Mri Harding. !captain) replied, f-'promisiiije Taranaki a good match foi" day, TroSy had been promised all sorts fi>of' tiling* "down below 15 when they m«t CTaraaaki, and they were looking >orl' ward to the experience. Mr. Harding ■\ concluded by proposing the health of v(he Taranaki team, which was quaintly responded to by Mr. J. Hunter in a , characteristic Speech. - Mr. BelMnger, president of the ,'lSwanakr'ltugby Union, extended a welf tome' on behalf of the footballers of the They had not forgotten the splendid 'reception accorded tSic "All f. Blacks" In the Old Country, and were pleased ft l**e the present opportunity tft reciprocate. He could promise '.the virftbrs a hard, honest game of football, and let the best team win.'' Cheers for the Mayor and the British iteam conclndeu the gathering. TO-DAY'S TEAMS. . ' ANGLO AVELSIF. Full-back: J. C. M. Dyke, r Three-quarters: J. L, Williams, J. Tuan Jones, 11. H. - ' VaaSall, F. E. Chapman. " Halves: • W, Morgan, J. Davey, P. F. McfSvedy. Forwards: 'A; P. Hatdhg (captain), R. Dibble, P.J. !L r Down, Edgar Morgan, G. R. Hind, - T. Sarith, and H. Archer. TARANAKI. ji Full-back: . IA. Hardgraves. gte-<V Three-quarters: ■££ ®ive D. Cameron C. Sheehan. Kj- Five-eighths: Bp . H. Mynott, J. Hunter. ( ■' Half-back: \ W? j, Colnrnn. ] Wing-forward:. ] Bpl'-* 1 Bheehan, 5 K'"' ' r • Forwards: ■ i |r J, O'Sullivan H. Bothcry t |(tenrley Smith Tamu v | ' Whittington Cane. e !'•" Emergencies; Back, Hooker; forward, }

TPnkere. '-'Uteri Is a doubt about Cameron be3ng able to play. He has not yet rercovered from an injury to Sua shoulder Meeiwa in the tate Wanganu. match ;He was empuued l)f Dr. Fookes last PWdtt, wg to. effort will lie made to Satch hi™ up. It unable to play, Hooter will fl» the gap. Dive probably Itfayiue cmtre. . fj.riStt's inability to play will be tincerclv regretted by of the -thfi noted full-back's great * e ' mjtatkra Tievitig prettied him. The fefca.xlMMTer, is strong back and for-Utfi-'the forwards bring about jiie krOMpst combination yet put in the feUifcy. the visitors. McEvcdy will 5 roving commission.

BRITISH RUGBY TEAM IN NEW ZEALAND. PLAYERS AND PLAY. E .J. JACKET! (Cornwall and England). When one speaks of Jackett one must refer in admiration to the finest full-back that has ever taken the field i* the Dominion. Jackett is nt all times a past master in the last line of defence. He quickly made himself the idol of the New Zealand public, and in all matches in which he has participated, furnished the most sensational game for his side. Jaekett was certainly one of tSie particular bright stars of the Britiah rear guard from whom the unorthodox was always to be expected. His line kicking and accurate finding I oftimes 50 and BO yards up the field is a, feature of the English Internal ional's play. Jackett is at all times a player of resource; quick as the wind off the mark, he swerves like a grey-, hound, and look to it when he makes this double on the attack. For .Jackett is merely getting within range for a flying pot shot at goal. Brilliant as ne is on attack, Jackett. is no less solid on defence, and the player who passes him must have the speed of modern Mercury and be a veritable spring-heel-ed Jack. J. C. M. DYKE, of Penarth, Coventry, Glamorgan, and Wales, is a Welsh international fullback, and played against the famous All Blacka in England in 1905. Dyke is a popular and unassuming member of the British Eugby team. He is a; fine type of player, and as a loving: forward is in a very fcigh class, tys;: tendency, however, to rove on to the opponents' side of the Md occasionaly gets him into trouble, but one forgives him much for his sound ttd accurnt'e line kicking, which is one Of the features of his play. His drop-kicking, too, is good to look upon. F. E. CHAPMAN (of Durfram), is an English three-quarter back who knows the game thoroughly. lie has played many fine games in England, and *n no occasion has he let down hie side. While not one of the stars of tuc British back division, he is at the same time one of the most useful members' of Rugby Society in the tourist team of 1908. Chapman is a wing-three

quarter back of a fine type. He gathers in tlie ball with accuracy, and" endowed with rare pace, streaks for the line on "the slightest provocation. Trimly built, he carries no superfluous flesh and in his race /or the line lie takes a mighty power of stopping; running with a swerve Chapman is as illusive' as a shadow. R. A. GIBBS, the famous Welsh International threequarter back, who played against the All Blacks in England in 190.">, is one ol the flying British rearguard of 1908. Gibbs Jias probacy been one in me most unfortunate men on the New Zea land tour, receiving injuries to his shoulder in the early matches of the; tour, which prevented him taking part in several of the earJjer contests for l Bugby supremacy. Gibbs is gifted with rare pace, and a sweeping stride, ne runs with an illusive swerve carrying the passing movement to its final ter--mination over the enemy's lines On all occasions Gibbs takes his passes with accuracy and quick to get into stride, he is at once a marvel of pace and determination. J. L. WILLIAMS, of Glamorgan and Wales, a Welsh International who has the blood of Rugby coursing through his veins, is another of the famous sprinters of the British Rugby team. It is a dcbatnbifc' pofiit whether "Johnny " Williams as he is popularly called, Vassal, the English international, or R. A. Gibbs, of British team's lour and I do not wish; Wales, is the fastest .player in theBritish three-quarter line. I have seen Williams in all the matches on the British team's tour, and I do not wish to sec a finer .or cleaner player, nor a more popular one. Williams delights the public with' sparkling runs, swift and certain swerves, and crisp and decisive passes. R. B. GRIFFITHS, of Monmouth, England, cannot boast a long acquaintance with Rugby, and is not in the same plice as the playeris I whose names arc Jackett, of England, ( Gibbs, Williams, and Ponty Jones of Wales, Morgan, the little Welsh halfback, and Vassal, the English' International three-quarter. Griffiths is, however, a utility player, who can (it in anywhere, from full-back to wing forward. "PONir JONES, is one of the idols of the British Rugby team. Whan Ponty gets the ball it is time to run up the danger signal. He is a tall and powerful three-quarter-back playing in the centre of the British line. Ho fields the ball accurately, runs with great strength, and at rare pace. His defence punt to the town line when he is in trouble is something to ponder on. He was a Welsh reserve first in 1004, and right through until the present year, though on his showing he is quite entitled to win his international cap. Ponty .Jones is one of the most popular members of the British Rugby team and withal the most modest. He detests publicity and hates to be lionised. J. P. JONES ("Tuan") to distinguish him from his famous brother Ponty, is a very fine type of playex". Ho fills with equal credit the roll of centre three-quarter lack or "fly" half, and on all occasions presents one of the most attractive games Behind the British scrum. Tuan Jones sweeps

into the attack at the onset, cuts in finely and sets hi- hacks going nl ■' passing movement \vi£li refreshing accuracy and precision. On defence, Jones id not inclined to get down to nislio. but he lias a method ot liuding the line when in trouble which is not altogether practised to any extent in New Zealand. Tuan Jones is one of the greatest linefindera on the British side. DR P. I'. McEVEDY, of Kent, is the vice-captain of the British team, and is one of its best threequarter backs. McKvedy is a vastly improved player on his form of IW4, when he toured Jicw Zealand with Bedell Sivright's team, and is quite fit to win his International English cap tiis year. Though the majority of the British backs pass across the field ..*lc Evedy is the one who adopts the -vv. Zealand system of cutting in and running straight. He is wonderfully quick on his feet and takes living passe,? with gTeat certainty. In all the matches in which lie has taken part on the New Zealand tour he has played mill-

iant games, quite eclipsing his eliort> in 1904. A strong and determine.! runner, ilcEvcdy now takes a power of flopping. ' H. H. VASSAL, of Oxford University in England, is one of the stars of the British baek divi-> siOB. He ia a trimly built player, blessed with great speed which he uses to the utmost advantage. He runs with determination and is quick to bore his way through the enemy's line always provided the enemy's line shows a weakness in its defence. Vassal lias been one of the most unfortunate men on the present tour. Prior to leaving England he met with an injury to Ins thigh, and it was thought then that he would be unable to accompany the

isli team on its tour through New Zealand and Australia. A few days after his arrival in Wellington, and prior to the first match of the tour in tile l)n 4 miuion, Vassal, in a practice game, severely injured his shoulder, and has since been suffering great agony. Yassall came out for the first time on a New Zealand football iield against Utago, on which occasion lie gave glimpses iOf that form lrlipk has made his i. famous on English football fields. Again in the first test match, Yassall was much in evidence, and was mainly responsible for Britain's first try, securing the ball from his own 2d, lie dashed through the All Black's defence, eluding Hunter .and passing Mitchinson in the same stride, he forged his way to the New Zealand back, when with a crisp pass, he sent the ball 011 to Gilibs who "swerved" Column, the New Zealand full-back, racing over the line and scoring the most brilliant try of the , match. In the match against South Canterbury, Vassall was again mostunfortunate, having to leave the field five minutes after the commencement of the game, owing to having injured Iris sluulder. J. DAVEY,

of Cornwall ami England, IS an English International Uy-half who won liis cap this year. He is a sterling defensive and attacking player, and knows now what colonial football really is, having bad several tastes of the dashing play of i'rancis, Seeling, McDonald and Co., of Rugby fame. W. MORGAN, of Kent and London Welsh, is the midget half-back of the team, lie is a urot'her of the famous Teddy Morgan who scored the sensational try l'ur M ales m that historic- match at Cardiff against the All JJlacks in England in IOOu. 1 have seen much of Morgan 011 the present tour and 1 like the daring Intle Welshman for all he docs, lie is quick as Mercury behind the scrum, gelling the ball away with a swift '•flick'"' pasi to his three-quarter line. Morgan gives his passes with commendable accuracy and precision," but like the majority of British backs shows no particular lik ing for getting down to the forward rushes. G. L. WILLIAMS, "Jerry" to distinguish liim from th« Welsh international three-quarter back "J. L.," and the Welsh lnternatioanl forward "J. F." Williams, is the midget ,of the British Rugby team of 1908, Moreover, he is the comedian of the team, and not the least pleasing member of the bacK division. Williams hails from Yorkshire, but has represented 1 Lancashire from 1900 to 1908, and * I the latter year was captain of thi County team. Having watched William! closely on the New Zealand tour hi struck me as being a clever and nippj little half-back who really only wanti to get opportunities to show his ability H. ARCHER, of Guy's Hospital and Somerset, is .• very useful player, indeed quite a utili man who who can plan on the winj of the three-quarter line, in the middli of the serum, or wing forward. A trill on the light side, Archer is particularl; clever in the loose, and is an exper dribbler.

P, J. DOWN, 1 of Somerset, in England, is oue of those stalwart forwards who goes from the kick-off to the call of time. l)o\vu is one of tlie heavy-weights of the British pack. R. K. GIIEEX, of Glamorgan, is another forward of a similar type to Down. He plays with rare dash and determination, and is an cx|K>rt dribbler. Green has been rather unfortunate on the tour, and owing to injuries has played very little. A. K. HAKDIiNG, is the famous London-Welsh and W'elsn liitcrimlionul forward. He is captain oi the team, and was out with the Hedell-Sivright team oi 1904. Harding is still one of the best forwards in the team, and as leader and general shows a sterling example to his fellow forwards in following-up and dashing forward play. He invariably plays outside of the scrum, that is, always .providing the opposition plays the wing forwards. Harding keeps his men well together, and is an able leader. The British captain has been exceedingly unfortunate on tic tour, injuring his ankle in one of the earlier matches. He has been standing down in some of the leas important engagements and undergoing electric treatment. . J. A. S. IUXSO-X, of the British Rugby team, hails from Northumberland. He is a line type of forward, fast in the open, and H clever dribbler in the loose. Sound on the line-out and in all other departments he is a thoroughly resourceful player. Kitson has been seiteied in the best 15 British llugby teams put in the field. W. If. OLDHAM is an English International forward hailing- from the Midland County, and lias the blood of Rugby in his veins. He won his cap by playing for England this season, and oil all occasions has , made a good showing for his side, lie is tall and powerful, excelling on the line-out and in the loose, and follows up in splendid style. H. LAXON is a Midland County's half-back and an old Cambridge University player, m addition to his experiences on the footbal field, he has also seen adventure in South Africa, where ho served in ihu Yeomanry during tnc war. Laxun is a solid and defensive half-back who furnishes football without trimmings, playing the game for his side all the time. lie has studied for the ministry and good footballer though he is, Laxou is probably a better philosopher. R. DIBBLE is one of the pick of the British forwards. Tall and powerful, he excels on the loose, on the line, and in the dribbling rushes. He has won representative honors on no fewer that 40 occasions, including nine International games against New Zealand, South Africa, and other countries. Dibble hails from Somerset, and is at present captain of the Bridgwater Albion team. Dibble is quiet and unassuming. He is a man of deeds, not words, and has much that goes to a footballer in the making. L. S. THOMAS, of Glamorgan, is one of the reserve forwards of the team. He plays well in the loose and on the line-out, and excels in dribbling, using his feet and nursing the ball to the best possible

advantage. J. F. WILLIAMS, who has won his Welsh iuternationi cap as a forward, playing against U All Blacks in England in 1005, is 01: of the best forwards on the Britis side. Unfortunately, however, befoi tlie match against Otago took plae Williaius -yas seriously injured in practice game. lie is a line type c forward, excelling in the loose and i the dribbling rushes. G. E. HIND, of Guv's Hospital and Kent, is 111 lightest forward on the British sid' Ilind was selected at the eleventh lion replacing Wilson, who was unable t make the trip owing to the action c the Scottish Union debarring hii from doing so. Hind is a very usefi player who excels in the dribblin rushes. T. SMITH, of Leicester, is one of tlie most usefv forwards in the British team, tall an powerful. He excels on the line-out an in the loose and is an expert dribblei lie follows up in good style, and is en of tlie British pack who excels in thi department. It. V. KYRKE is another'member of the British Rug by team who hails from Somerset. II is' a splendid forward of the right type Powerful and aggressive, he keeps gu ing from the kick-oil; until the whistle sounds for time. Kyrke has not ve 1 won International honors, but will 1101 be long before he does. Having watch ed Kyrke in matches on the New Zea land tour, I have been .struck with th> vim and vigor which he puts into Hi: play. EDGAR MORGAN is one of the best forwards in the lli'i tisli Rugby team. Tall and powerful weighing over 14 stone, lie runs wit! every pound of it. Follows up in good stvle and is a certain and stejidy tackier. Unfortunately in a practice ganio in Huni'din be met with an injury to lis leg and much to the disappointment >f his confreres, was unable to take lis place in the field for Britain in the irst lest match. Tboi# Morgan lias ml; vet won his international cap lie vas a Welsh reserve in 1003, and is indonbtedly lit for capping at the precut time. He is the hooker of the earn and the most expert in that posi-

THE TARANAKI PLAYERS. A. lIARDURAVES, l''iill-baek), is a Tukapa Club lepreseflitivf, and 0110 of the finest kicks in the lomiiiion, second only to Wallace as ie best full-back at present playing, nly liis inability to secure tlie neceslry leave lias kept him out of the New enland team this year. He is 25 years f age, and weight 12st 101b, and hat eon playing senior football for nine 'ears. lie represented Taranaki in 000, 1002, 1005,100 ft, 1007, and 1008. He s a good utility player, and plays a sev'iceable game in the three-quarter line, K. IHVE Xeft wing threequurter), is 22 years ol ige, and turns the scale at 12 stone Dive has been playing senior footbal iinee he was 14 years of age, as a Wa iiganui College representative, and Wa iiganui representative. Since 1000 lu lias played for Eltham, and in that yeai represented Taranaki and the North Is land. In 1007 he was picked to plaj for New Zealand, but met with ail in jury in Christdiureh which ended his football career for that season. lie re presented Taranaki this year againsi Wanganui. Dive, who has been play ing to. the top of his form during tin past month, plays with fine judgment and is a very strong runner, sure field kick, and tackier. D. CAMERON (Centre three-quarter) is 21 years o 1 age, aiul his weight is list 101b. Hi formerly played for Otago University and since coming to Taranaki lias play ed for Stratford. He represented Tara naki in lOOti, 1007, and 1008, North Is land 1008, and New Zealand 1908. Cam eron is one of the trickiest backs in tlu Dominion, brilliant on attack. While not fond of getting down to strorif. rushes, he has a way of getting out ol difficulties that only an expert coul: risk. He is a good drop-kick. CON SHEEHAN (Right wing three-quarter) is 24 year; lof age, and weighs 12st 81b. He ha( played senior football with the Patea Club since 1001, and represented Wa ligninii in 1002, 1003, and 1004, and Taranaki in 1007 and 1908. . He is .■! player of the useful aiul reliable typo sound in defence and attack, but noi brilliant. A good kick. JAS. HUNTER (Five-eighths) is one of the best-knowr players in the Rugby world. He hah been playing senior football with tin Hawera Club for 10 4 * years, in whieli year (1898) he represented Taranaki i>: one match. He has represented Tam naki in almost every match since—looo 1001, 1002, 1003, 1901, 1000, 1007, and 1008. He represented the North Is land in 1004, 1000, 1907, and 1908, and New Zealand ill 1905 (All Black tour) 1907, and 1908. Hunter is 29 years ol age, weighs list 81b, and, despite a strenuous football career, has lost little of his dash and brilliancy. The Hunterllyuott five-eighths combination is probably the finest Newl . Zealand has known, H. J. MYNOTT ■is another veteran Taranaki player, but unlike Hunter, seems to improve with age, and this year is playing up

to the best form he has ever display , ed. _\lynott's head-work, and the aj>parent ease with which his' makes openings from most unlikely positioni, 1 stamp him as probably the finest fiw- ■ eighths in tha Dominion at present. 'His defence is of the soundest. lie is 32 years of age and weighs list 01b. Hynott has been playing senior football for 12 years, and represented Tarainaki iu 181)9, 1000, 190J, 1002, 190; i«. ,1904, 1000, 1907, and 1908. Ho lias represented North Island in 1904, 190.1, 1900, 1907, and 1908, and New Zealand with the All Macks (1905) in England, 'and also in last year's combinatinij' JiU exclusion from this year's New Zealand teams is a mystery that probably Mr. Gallagher, one of the selectors, alone can explain. To everybody else it is inexplicable. [T.ate last night he was picked a; first emergency for (he next lest.] J.' D. COUIAN t (Half-back) is probably the greatest 'utility player in New Zealand at pre sent, and has at times been used in every available position on the field lie iins represented New Zealand llii year as full-back, the North Island a wing forward, and to-day plays half back. Column weighs 12st 101b, is 2 years of age, has played in senior fool ball [or four years, and has represent ■«d Taranaki for the same time. 11 played for the North Island in 190 and 1908, and similarly for tho IsieT ' Zealand team. He is not an idea ' half-back, but knows every move in th fame, is fairly fast, a great kick, an tile deadliest tackier in the team. TOM SHEEIIAN

(Winn forward) is 2(i years of ngo, turns Die scale at 12st 9ll>, and is good all-round athlete. lie lias played senior football since 1901 with Hie Patea Club, represented Wnnganui 111 1902, 1903, 100-1, aud Taranaki in l!)0l>, 1907. and 1!)0S. lie is n. strong, useful player, but could do ivith more "devil." .1. O'SULUVAN is me AH Wad* forward in the team, and one of the finest forwards in the Dominion. He is 24 years of -age, and weighs 14st nil). He lias been playing football for nine years, and senior since 11102. 11l that year lie was eliosi" represent Taranaki, aud has been playing provincial, inter-Island, and intercolonial football ever since. Owing to injury 'lie was not available for iSew Zealand this year, but he has now recovered, and will be ail admirable leader for his co-forwards to-dav. U. G. WIimiNGTOX, 23 years, list 71b, is one of the frontrankers, and the best player in that position in the province, lie has been playing senior with the Ilawera <.: since .15)05, and represented Taranaki in 1905, 1900, 14)07, and 1908. He is very clever on the line-out, and n spiCi.j,did follower. M. CAIN (Front ranker) plays his first game foi Taranaki to-day. He is 22 years of age and weighs 12st 71b. He has only been playing four years, two as junior, ami two as Senior for the Clifton Club, lit is a hard-working forward of the nuggety type, and fits in well with Whittington. A SMITH (Lock) is a Pihama player, 27 years .i age, aud turns the scale at 14 stone, Ho played senior football at l'irongia. ffaikato, for four years (representing Waikato twice) before coming to Taranaki in 1900. He played junior for Waiinate for three years, senior with Opunalte for three years, aud this season witli Pihaina. lie has represented the province for three seasons. Js a strong, hard-working forward, who can be depended on to give a good account himself. J. 1). OltOWJJil' (Support) is 25 years of age and weighs 3st l()Ib. ile has been playing senior iVitU the Okaiawa Club for seven years, md has represented the province in icarly all engagements since 1905 (inilusive). tie is a dashing type of forvard, who only needs plenty of promptng from his half-back to keep going 11 day.

;• ' TAJIU ' (Supportj is a novice in representative football, ile has played for Wiiimate (this year's southern champions) for I many years in the three-quarter lino, in which position he was not a brilliant ' success. Last season lie was put in tiic pack, where he attained considerable ,success, being considered by southerners the lest forward in Turanaki. He comes from a celebrated Maori lighting strain, and, unlike other successful native players, lias great pluck and resource. He is 20 years of age, weighs list 101b, and is probably the fastest man in his team. Combining his weight I with great puce and good judgment, ho should be a thorn in the British back division. HENKit BOTHERY (Back row) is 27 years of age, weighs lost, and is probably the team's most dashing forward iu the loose. He has played senior football for eight years with Opunakc, Star, Clifton, and KaIhotu Clubs. He lias represented Taiannki iu l'JOa, 1007, and I'JUS. He is naturally a wing forward, but will be equally useful in the back low of the scruuu VUKJiIUS, I (TCiiiergnm.v forward) is 22 years of f age, weighs J fist, and is probably tile, most holiest grafter playing this season. He was a junior rep. in IMB anil l!)l)6, and played his first senior game last year. At present bo is one of flu: most promising forwards in the province, at home alike in the scrum, lineout. or in the. loose. HOOK HI!, '(Kmergi'iicv back), age 'J2 yars, weigh!' ] list ioib, 'is known as "Hie Tukapa j llicr,'' Ims been playing senior foot ball , for two seasons, is a sure kick with j either foot, and is a safe luckier, lie i is the most promising IhiTe-quarlcr < hack in the province. 5

BRITISH TEAM'S TOUR. 11 e: RESULTS TO DATE.. ° . • roints ~ Against Drn. W. ],. j.,' or Agst. , Wairarajia ~ 1 0 17 3 Wellington ... o l 13 i«j >tago ..01 (I i) loutlihiml .. .. 1 0 14 8 3 few Zealand ..01 5 30 \ South Canterbury.. 1 0 12 6 1 .J , Co *' ! 't.. •• 1 0 22 3 kelson .. .. 1 0 12 0 ::J J 1 a 2 $ 3 ! u7ni t,V | B ' ly ~ 1 0 20 0 J M.inaivatu - 1 0 12 3 ' Wanganui .. _ j 0 g f . J Total 1 9 4 i ßi 108 REMAINING FIXTURES. piAk~ Tm "^ Vaion ' land! y 18 '~ Aucklan<1 Union, at Auckj"ly at Eot <*«"- 4r,farS„? uthWalest --^ u August 12. Westers Union, at Bal!,Syd"fy. St 15l ~ Metr opoHtan Union, at cast|e. USt Union, at New--22-Nw Swa Wales, n August 2n'~!f c ' cns,aild > at Brisbane Septanberl^^ 3llll : at Bri»b.no bane. Queensland, at BrisPREVIOUS BRITISH TEAMS "'e' record'of DS tC BritH T""™? oi THE 1888 TEAM played; 13 won; 2 lost . 4 : nf n ' 6l ' 01UtSt0 Against Canterbury Won 7J. yx • 4 t# A|ai Jlst Haw] . e>s 8 Against Otago: Won, 8 poi'nT3 to i--4*"' I >° Wairarapt, Won, 5 points to Wanganui: Drawn, 1 point

Against South Island: Won, 5 points to •!; won, 0 points to nil. MEJIMRS OF THE BRITISH TEAM (Vorfh 7 " 1 '" 11 I" 10 ' 181 J ' T - 1I ' ,sl ' l »» (ioikshiic iiua Ikteley); A. Paul (Lancashire and Swinton); Ihree-miar- - 11, C. fyoakiuau (Cheshire unci Runcorn) Dr. ir. Brooks (Durham and ITnmllr J- Andorton rim ?\rni "" Salford )> A - J ''- Stod-d-ut (.Middlesex, liovers, and English International); half-backs: W. Bumbv (Lancashire and Sivinton), J. Nolan (Kichd.ile Hornets), \\\ Burnett (ltoxburgh County and Hawick). I'onvnrds—li. Scildon, captain (Lancashire and Swinton), C. Mathers (\orkshire and Bromley), & Williams (Lancashire and Salford), T. Banks (Lancashire and .Sivinton, 31. Eagles (Lancashire and Swinton), A. J. Stewiu't 0 orkshire and Dcwsbury), W. H. Ihomas (Cambridge University aiu\ Hall's), T. Kent (Laneas'liire and Salford), A. I'. Pinket'h (Douglas, Isle of Alan Club), P. Burnett (Roxburgh County and Hawick); A. J. Lan» (Roxburgh County and Hawick), Dr. D. •I. Smith (Edinburgh Lnivorsity, Corinthians, and Scottish International), and J. P. Clowes (Yorkshire and Halifax). MATCHES AGAINST 'TARANAKI. The following are <i few details of the two football matches played in Tara- 1 liaki by the British team in 1888: On Jlay 1 (it'll, 1888, the Britishers arrived in New Plymouth to play their fixture with Taranaki. Up to this time the British team liad buon umMeatea, and it was certainly not anticipated that laraiiaki would be tlic first province to lower the colors of the redoubtable Britishers But such was the case. The players in this memorable match were as follows: Taranaki.—luill-back, R. 11, Knell (13st 21b); three-quarters.: A. flood (list 131b), A. Bayly, capt. (12st 81b), 11. t'oghill (I2st Mb); quarter: C. Havly (ll>t 71b); wing forwards: li. 'laic (list 101b), Jr. lline (list 101b): forwards: H. Good (last), T. Joll (12st lOlli), W. Snook (12st 131b), W. Cucyiie (12st 71b), C. E. Major (12st ■lib), J. B. Veale (12st), A. I'earco (Jlst 81b), .1. Whitchouse (list 71b). Britishers.—Pull-Lack: H. Paul (Mat 71b); three-quarters: I)r. Brooks (list 101b), U. Spacknian (12St 51b), J. Haslani (list 101b); half-backs: W. Bumby (12st tilb), J. Anderton (12st); forwards: K, L. Soddon, capt. (12st 51b), W. 11. Thomas (13st 71b), A. l'inketh (12st 121b), li. Burnett (12st 121b), T. Kent (12st 121b), 11. Eagles (list (ilb), A. G. Stuart (list 101b), S. Williams (list 101b), W. Burnett (list 71b). Referee: P. Bayly; umpries: British, Dr. Smith; Taranaki, G. Bayly. The game was played on the New Plymouth racecourse, and started at 2.45. Joll kicking off for Taranaki. Neither side scored ill the first spell. Taranalii scored a try during the second spell, which is tlms described:—Thrown in, the ball went across to Brooks, wOio was thrown, and a scrum was formed, from which Anderton got the ball, but it was called back and scrummed, from which A. (food got it and carried it lip the field. Tate showed out prominently at this juncture, as did Veale and ■Toll, the last-named making a rim, but was forced in scratch. The ball was again scrummed, and then Haslam got It, and punted in A. Bayly's arms, wbo ran up the field,'and after passing several times was thrown by Spackman at the. 25 flag. Thrown in, If. Good got it. and did a tremedously strong run, dodging the Britishers, and just getting in near the post as Anderton threw him. Cogbill took the. kick, but missed

16 major points, tlie kick being right aough, but not straight. The game aded: Taranaki'l; Britishers nil. A return match was played at 11a- I 'era, on Oclover 2nd, 1888. I'lie teams 'ere as follows: Taratiaki. Full-back: 1?. Tyrer; lircc-quarters: T. Hempton, A. Baylv', nd A. (food; half-back: J'. Mills; ?ing forwards: H. Good and Pi. Tate; orwards: C. K Major, X. Joll, Sautter, A. Pearce, J. B. Veale, Laiubie, ilcCarty, and Willy, Britishers.—Full-back; W. Burnett; ■hree-ijuarters; Dr. Brooks, A. E. Ktodlart, and J. Auderton; half-backs: \V. Buinby and ii. C. Spackman; forwards; \. Paul, C. Mathers, 8. Williams, X, Kent, U. .Eagles, A. J. Lang, A. P. L'inketh, A. G. Stuart, and K. Burnett. Referee: 11. Kivell. Umpires: Messrs liinerson (British) and S. Adamson (Taranaki). On taking tllie field, the Britishers led tiy Stoddart, and Taranaki by Major, cheered each other. The spells Ware 40 minutes. Taranaki won the toss and took the southern base, favored by a breeze. Stoddart scored the first try for the visitors after a brillian run, and I'aul, taking the kick at a diilieult angle, placed a pretty goal. The spell ended: Britishers 3; Taranaki nil.' Second spell: Anderton scored a try for the Britishers, Paul failing in the kick at an easy angle. Laiubie scored the only try for Taranaki, which was unconverted. Pinketh potted a goal for the visitors, and the game ended: Britishers 7; Taranaki 1. The most regrettable incident of <Uu> tour occurred jn New South Wales, when Bob Seddon, the popular captain, lost his life, but apart from the footbaU ground. He went out sculling at West Maitland, and the skiff was afterwards found capsized and the unfortunate Seddon was drowned underneath. The accident is easily explained, for, like most rowers on the sliding seat, he strapped his feet in, and when the skill capsized he evidently had no chance of extricating himself. THE 1904 TEAM j IN AUSTRALIA.

Matches played, 1 4; won, 14. Juno IS: v. New South. Wales, won by 27 points to nil. June 22: V. Combined AVestem Districts, won by 21 points to I). June 25: v. New South Wales, won by 21) to C. June 29: Metropolitan (New South Wales), won by 19 points to 0. July 2: v. Australia (first test), won by 17 points to nil. July 0: v. Northern Districts (New South Wales), won by 17 points to 3. July 9: v. Queensland, won by 24 points to 5. July 13: v. Metropolitan (Queensland) won by 17 points to 3. July IB: v. Queensland, won by 18 points to 7. July 20: v. Toowooinba, won by 12 points to 3. I July 23: v. Australia (second test), won by 17 points to 3. July' 27: v. New England, won by 20 points to 0. ifuly 30: v. Australia (third test), won by 10 points to nil. August 31: Sydney Metropolitan, won by 5 points to nil. . MATCHES IN NEW ZEALAND. Won, lost, 2; drawn, 1. August 0: v. Canterbury—Britain won by 5 points to 3. August 10: v. Otago and Southland— Britain won by 14 points to 8. August 13: v. New Zealand—New Zealand won by 9 points to 3. August 17: v. Taranaki, etc., drawn; no score. August 20: Auckland, etc.—Auckland won by 13 points to nil. MEMBERS OF THE TEAM. Full-back: C. F. Stanger-Leathes {Northumberland); three-quarters: W, Llewellyn (Wales, Newport, and Kent), ?. F. JlcEvedy (Guy's Hospital and Kent), A. B. O'Brien (Guy's Hospital and Kent), R. J. Gabe (Wales, Cardiff, and Middlesex), E. Morgan (Wales, Guy's Hospital and Kent), J. L. Fishei (Hull and Yorkshire), E. Jowett (Wales and Swansea); half-backs: F. C. Hulme (England, Birkenhead, and Cheshire), P C. Bush (Cardiff and Glamorgan), J. Vile (Newport and Monmouthshire); forwards: 1). R. Bedcll-Sivright, captain (Scotland and Cambridge University), A. F. Harding (Wales, London Welsh mid Cardiff), D. Dobson (England, Oxford University, and Devon), S. N. Crowthcr (Lennox and Surrey), R. W. Edwards (Ireland and Malone), C. D. Patterson (Ulster auil Malone), T. S. Bevan (Wales and Swansea), D. 11. Trail (Guy's Hospital and Surrey), I!. J; Rogers (Bath and Somerset), i)'. MclC. Saunders (Guy's Hospital and Kent), B. S. Massey (Hull and Yorkshire), J. Sliarland (SlVoatltaiu and Surrey), B. I. Swannell (Northampton and East Midlands). THE TARANAKI MATCH. The British team was as follows: Full-back: C. !•'. Stanger-Leathes (13st 71b); three-quarters: W. Llewellyn (lOst 01b), A. li. O'Brien (12st 41b), R. J. Gabe (12st 101b), I'. F.MeEvedy (12st 41b); halves: I'. C. Bush (11.0), J. Vile (10.5t 71b); forwards: D. Dobson. captain (13st 41b), A. F. Harding (13st 21b), T. S. Bevan (12st 01b), R. W. Edwards (13st Oil.), D. 11. Trail (13st 71b), S. N. Crowtlier (I3st 41b), R. J. Rogers (12st 81b), and J. T. Sharland (14st 71b). Average weights: Backs, list 111b; forwards, 13st 31b; whole team, 12st 81b. Taranaki Combined Team:—Full-back, E. F. Fookes (12st 71b); three-quarters: H. I). Thomson (Wanganui), (10st 121b), J. Hunter, captain (list 21b), H. L. Abbott (13st 41b); five-eighths: H. Mynott (list 41b); half: J. Hunter (list 51b); wing forwards: A. Guy (12st 01b), F. Glasgow (13st); forwards: A, McMinn (Manawatu) (list 121b), H. A. Wilson (13fit 111b), O'Sullivan (lSs't 71b), W. Glenn (13st), R. Douglas ()3st 71b), J. Thomas (12st 71b), and AY. MacKay (13st 31b). Average weights: Backs, list 91b; forwards (including wings) 13st; whole team, 12st Gib. Great interest was evinced in the match throughout the colony, Taraiiaki having an unbeaten record for tiwto years. Rain fell incessantly all tlie morning and during the greater part of the game, notwithstanding which quite 8000 people braved the elements and were rewarded with one of the finest games of the season. The game was remarkable for the manner in which the backs on both sides handled the muddv and greasy bal. The Britishers made the game as much as possible a forward ( one, while Taranaki made the game as • open as it could bo made under the circumstances. Mr, Sivriglit made an innovation in tins match, detailing a couple of Jiis men on roving commissions Against the two Taranaki wing forwards, The first spell was evenly eontested, the locals having slightly the advantage towards the close. Tlie second half was bristling with incident, and the spectators were kept in a constant state, of excitement, and no wonder, for Taranaki all but "did the trick." Guy made a sensational run along the line io the full-back and passed over his shoulder to Thomas, who just failed to reach the coveted line. Then Abbott nearly shot I over (many claim he scored), for lie actually did cross the line. Hunter secured from a scrum and transferal smarllv to Wynott, who stopped a couple of Britishers and transferred to Abbott, the latter galloping at to]) for the line across which he threw himself, but it was ruled that one of his feet went out of touch. Britain then got to business and hammered at Taranaki's defence

with vigor, until the local forwards cleared with a groat rush, which took the ball right through the lirilish team to the full-back, titij-, (('Sullivan aud ■Stalker dribbling splendidly. The excitement as they endeavored to toe the ball past Stauger-Loathes was intense, but the full-back blocked their progress by falling, oil the ball under his goal posts, and hugging it until Taruuaki was awarded a free kick, Thomson took the kick directly in front of the goal, but it was a dismal failure. Britain then rallied and wore tiian held their own till the end of the game, which terminated without a score. JUNIOR TRIAL MATCH. KOKTII v. SOUTH AND WEST. This match is to be played on the Racecourse ground at 1 p.m. to-day. The following are the teams:— NORTHERN DIVISION. Full-back—Goldsmith (Waitara). Three-quarters—Glentworth( Elthani), Stohr (Tukapa), Rasmnssen (Eltham). Five-eighths—Stannering (Tukapa). Half—McLaren (Star). ; Wing-forward—Pierce (Star), McGivcn (Tukapa). Forwards llellier and Maslin (Elthani), McAUum (Tukapa), McDonald (Elthani), Dernhill (Clifton), Bradley (Stratford), Jones (Tukapa). SOUTH AND WEST DIVISION'S TEAM. Full-back—Ryan. Three-quarters Campbell, Katene, Koru. Five-eighths—Morrison. Half—Hunter. Wing-forwards—Brown, Taylor. Forwards Villain, MeLcilaud, I'epporill, Winters, R. Brown, J. Scown, and Willis. THE NEXT TEST. MYNOTT AN EMERGENCY. By Telegraph.—Press Association. Wellington, Last Night. 11. J. Mynott, of Taranaki, has been chosen as emergency back for New Zealand in the next test match.

TARANAKI RUGBY UNION. 'A meeting of the Taranaki Rugby Union was Held last night, when there were present: Messrs F. T. Bellringer (in the chair), Humphries, Mnlouc, iSkoglund, Gray, and Cargill. Final arrangements for to-day's inatcli were completed. Tlio play-oft' for the junior shield between Tukapa and Opunake was fixed for Saturday, 2oth July, at New l'ly- .. mouth. Opunake have to travel on this occasion, havin'g already liad a bye, and Tukapa having travelled to Manaia. The representative match, Taranaki v. •Manawjitu, was fixed for New Plymouth on Thursday, 23rd inst. Mr. H. Stookor was appointed manager of the junior reps.