FOOTBALL.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXI, Issue 9040, 5 March 1908, Page 5

FOOTBALL.

MATCH AGAINST NORTHERN

UNION

BY TELEGRAPH —I'KESS ASSOCIATION Received March 4, 10.18 p.m. SYDNEY, March 4.

The "All Blacks" played their first test match against a picked Northern Union team at Leeds, suffering defeat by a goal and four tries to two tries. The London "Sportsman" says:— The ground, being protected, was in excellent condition for play, which, however, seldom rose above commonplace. The New Zealanders missed the services of Messenger, who was suffering from a cold. Almost from the start the local side were superior, but their tactics were painfully crude and slow; otherwise they must have scored heavily. There was 25 minutes' play before Jolly dropped a clever goal, which was followed by a try At half time the Northerners were leading by eight points to nil. Crossing over the home side were again painfully slow at taking opportunities, but following a rousing run by Todd on the other sido they put more sting into their play. The New Zealanders then rallied a little and tries were scored by Todd and Wynyard, the kicks at goal failing. This brought to a close a disappointing and uninspiring match. .The "Daily News" says that the "All Blacks" had to play against a strong wi'id in the first half, but they were nearly always defending, and were clearly outclassed.