FOOTBALL.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIII, Issue 80, 13 July 1910, Page 3

FOOTBALL.

THE ASSOCIATION EEP. TEAM. To the Editor. \ Sir,—J lave been much surprised, to see the personnel of the team selected to represent Taranaki, and cannot refrain from publicly criticising it. I have not taken any active part in Association j football since coming to Taranaki, but' in my travels through the province II have seen practically all of the clubs playing. This, coupled with the fact that I have played for some of the best amateur teams in England, should entitle my opinions to consideration. 1 had the opportunity of witnessing part of the trial game on Thursday last, and seeing the team which has been picked from it has so surprised me that 1 wonder if all has been fair and above board. Now, in tine first place, in selecting a goalkeeper, why has brawn been given preference to brains? There is no comparison between Carncross and O'Dea—one strong and slow, the other resourceful and with fine judgment. One save alone by Carncross on Thursday stamps him as a player who, given the opportunity, would come into the front rank as a goal-keeper. I refer to the save he made when he w,as laid out, when an instant's hesitation one way or another would have meant a certain score. Anyone could see that he is a player without fear. The backs might be equalled but not improved upon. The half line is woefully weak. Elliot is easily the best half I have seen in Taranaki, and his exclusion is unaccountable. Hutchin-, son is a man whose inclusion would have strengthened the team—a trifle slow, but with an intimate knowedge of the moves in the game. The forwards I will refrain from criticising, as they are good as far as forwards go in Taranaki. 1 have seen only one forward in Taranaki • who knows how to shoot—the New Plymouth outside left—and ihe is passed over. Apologising for taking up so much of your valuable space, but I could not refrain from writing on seeing a selection so manifestly unfair that I wonder if personal feelings underlie it.—l am, AN EX-ENGUSH CUP FINALIST.