HOCKEY.

Waipukurau Press, Issue 280, 9 July 1908, Page 5

HOCKEY.

—— [by “ knock on.”] WAIPUKURAU v. ONGA ONGA. These teams met at Onga Onga, the visitors winning by three goals to one. The condition of the ground was against a good display of hockey. Nevertheless the game was fast and interesting, and both teams played up for a win. Findlay, in goal for Onga Onga, saved one or two hot shots. Pink and Carswell at back hit well and considering it was Carswell’s first game, he played first class. Bissel was the best player for Onga, his hitting both in attack and defence being strong, and he is a hard man to beat at any ti me. Rickey and Goughian were safe, but inclined to get out of place. Of the Onga forwards Bibby was the pick. This player had a lot of hard luck. On one occasion he should have scored, but off-side play by Devine spoilt his chance. Bowling, for his first game, put in a lot of work and was very troublesome to the visitors throughout the game. Rhodes and Devine played a good game. The first mentioned does not play like he did at the beginning of the season.

- Pack, Jn goal for Waipukurau, played a good game, and is easily the best goal-keeper in the competition. Stoddart and Young should each play nearer their respective sides of the field, trusting to the centre half to stop all rushes or block in that position. By doing this they will also have more command over the opposing wing forwards. These men should also learn to drive down their respective sides when hitting. Yesterday the ball was driven with force but always towards the left side of the ground. Barrie, at half, is developing jnto a first-rate attacking half, keeping well down near the forwards and feeding his men in front.

Coldwell, on the other half, should learn to keep down nearer his forwards.

Perhaps the pick of the forwards was Pirie. He kept on the ball and was responsible for the 3 goals. Chi]well played a good game and passes well. Bone and Pirie were the strongest wings on yesterday’s play. The backs were responsible for the other wing not showing to advantage. Bailey, whenever he got the ball, carried it well up to the circle, but being on the worst portion of the ground spoilt his chance of scoring on one occasion.

The exchange of Bone and Westbrooke proved a right move, Westbrooke showing to advantage in his new position. Perhaps if Bailey and Westbrooke were to arrange signals between themselves that wing would be still much improved. Coldwell could also be guided by Bailey. Bibby scored the goal for Onga Onga.

Although Onga Onga had a ful team on the field it was rumoured yesterday that they did not intend travelling again. If this'is so it is to be regretted. ■ Surely, with a man like Bissel in their midst, and such a number of other good men, it is possible for to be well up in the competition. If Onga Onga have trouble in getting men to travel, they must remember that other teams are in the same bdx. Let each man be asked after every match if he will be present at the next fixture. If the reply is in the negative, it will then give the selectors a chance of getting other players.

The match between Waipawa Fire Brigade and Kaikora resulted in a draw each side scoring a goal.