FOOTBALL.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXI, Issue 905, 2 April 1908, Page 5

FOOTBALL.

THE "PRO-BLACKS." MATCH AGAINST ST. HELENS. BY TELEGIUFH—MESS ASSOCIATION Received April 1, 11.8 p.m. SYDNEY, April 1. The New Zealanders brought the ir tour to a closo, achieving a bri!liant victory over St. Helens. The visitors, showing splendid form, had to play against a gale of wind in the first half, and were consequently compelled to act for the most part on the defensive. At half time they had a deficit of t<in points to face. The whole aspect of the game changed in the second spell by the accurate passing and straight running of the colonial backs, who were much too clever for their opponents. Tries were scored by Tyler, Baskiville, Wynyard (two), and Tyne. Three goals were kicked by Messenger.

ARRIVAL AT FREMANTLE. THE MANAGER INTERVIEWED. FREMANTLE, April 1. The majority of the New Zealand football team have arrived by the Mongolia. Mr Palmer, the manager of the team, states that the team were splendidly received and entertained during the tour, but some jealousy was shown by the amateur teams. The rules inconvenienced the visitors. Professional Rugby was too far ahead of amateur for any comparison to be made. Any of the good New Zealand Clubs coul'l beat the teams that the "All Blacks" defeated. The finest players in England are in the Northern Union. Before sailing for home the team will give the New South Wales team some hints on the rules that will assist the team |.;oing to England. The matches played were strenuous, and the grounds in very bad condition. He denies the allegations that there was undue rough play in any match. The Northern Union expressed its appreciation of the results of the tour.