Senior Reserve Hockey

The long-awaited clash between the two 'Varsity teams in this grade was somewhat a disappointment as far as the standard of play of the First team was concerned. The game did not produce the fireworks that were expected, and Dave Good's team seemed to be only a shadow of its former self—when for Instance they played a meritorious drawn game against Island Bay the previous week. Playing one full-back short, the defence was sorely tried, especially in the second half. George Whitham was the outstanding player in the team, his stick-work and tenacity on a poor ground, being excellent Ian Purdle playeda sound game, especially on defence. Good seems to play a peculiar type of game, hard hitting but at times ineffective from a tactical point of view. More finesse would improve his play.

Sandford at full-back had two men's work to do at times. The fast forwards in the opposing team did not suit his play, although on several occasions he made very good clearances. He should endeavour to restrict his 'One hand' play to a minimum. Of the forwards, started off promisingly but seemed to lack finish and devil. He was unlucky not to snore on one occasion. A. McIntosh was the best of the forwards, being always up on the ball. McAllister (right wing) has a tendency to over-run the ball, and does not seem to use his speed to advantage. The score 3-0 was a fair Indication of the run of play.

For the winners the shrewd efficiency of Dr. Campbell at left-half was a match-winning factor. He and Arthur Long, at centre-half, initiated attack after attack in the second half. One of the club's most experienced players. Long has a sound knowledge of tactics and seldom plays a poor game. At right-half, John Till was not so prominent as Long and Campbell. He is a rapidly improving player, however, and has proved a very sound link in the strong defence of his team.

Spiers, a nuggety bustling centre forward of the George Shaw type, scored two goals. Kingi Tahiwi hit the other one—an unsighted head high shot from a corner. He and the mobile Roger Kirkham wore too strong a combination at full-back for the opposing forwards. Their effectiveness left Ian Allen in goal with little to do. Allen has improved to a marked extent this season and is now probably very little inferior to D.A. Beresford.

A Ives was a fast right wing and most of the team's attacks were wisely launched down his side.

Island Bay emerge as the grade champions, but although they defeated the 'Varsity Second team some weeks ago, they would probably not do so now. A fortnight ago they wore fortunate to escape with a 2-all draw against Good's men.