RUGBY FOOTBALL

Wairarapa Times-Age, 16 May 1939, Page 9

RUGBY FOOTBALL

JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP. OPAKI v. MARTINBOROUGH. • (By “Touchline.”) Martinborough had no difficulty in defeating Opaki on Saturday by 21 points to 5. Splendid combination among their backs was responsible for the win, the ball going from back to back in great style. The defence of several of the Opaki backs was very weak. Play was very even for about 20 minutes, till a bright back movement by Greens saw Hancock across, | his kick at goal failing. Larsen, Clarke | and Stinear were associated in a fine 1 movement, which carried play to Martinborough’s line where a force-down resulted. Green’s again attacked and Rollings potted a goal. Shortly after McKenzie scored a try for Opaki, Hunt converting. Half-time sounded with the score 7-2 t, in green’s favour. For a considerable time in the second half the Opaki forwards attacked solidly, and McKenzie was unlucky in not gaining another try. From a scrum in mid-field the green backs got going and Hancock again crossed the line, no goal resulting. Further tries were scored by Ronalds, Hoar and Hancock, one being converted. The final scores being Martinborough 21, Opaki 5. Martinborough deserved the victory as they were fit and combined splendidly, especially the backs, Ronalds, Rollings and Hancock being very conspicuous. They have a fine pack of forwards, hard, but clean players. I predict a victory for them in every match if they stick together. The Opaki forwards went well, Stinear and McKenzie being outstanding. Godden and Guvnor also played well. In the backs there is room for much improvement, but as they are nearly all forwards one cannot expect too much from them at present. Larsen. Clarke and Condon were hard workers right through. Walsh, at half, took a lot of gruelling but stuck to it gamely. Marshall left his wing position open too often, giving the opposing backs a golden opportunity to cut in and score. A. Clement, playing his first game for several years, did very well. Hunt did not play as well as on the previous Saturday, but all players have a day off. Mr J. Blake was an excellent referee.