League

On Saturday 22nd April at Strand Park, Lower Hutt, University played Randwick and won by a convincing 34 points to 6. The team was: W. McK-elvie; M. Smith, T. Jamison, R. Taukamo (capt), S. McConnell, D. Bidois, M. Muru, W.Moore, T. Sadlier, I. Kendricks, J. Dixon, A. Haronga, H. Mills.

Randwick provided stern opposition for the first twenty minutes, after which they were leading 6-5, but then seemed to fall apart, especially so in the second half. This was primarily due to Varsity pushing the ball through the backline, fir it is here as in most Barsity rugby teams, that they look the most dangerous. Randwick defended inadequately when confronted with the strong running and superbly timed passing of Ronnie Taukamo and Tom Jamison in the centres, although Evan Nathan, an ex-University player, at stand-off half for Randwick, gave his opposite number Dave Bidois quite a few anxious moments. Mick Muru played his usual alert game at scrum-half, whilst on the wings Mike Smith had more chances than Steve McConnell and added anothed two tries to the two he scored the previous week. At full-back Bill McKelvie proved sound and ran into the backline effectively.

In the forwards. Bill Moore and Alan (Horse) Haronga were outstanding. They ran well, backed up superbly, and were always onto the loose ball that Randwick dropped all day. 'Sacs' Sadlier had a good game with his hooking, and Ian Kendricks was ever there to support the ball-carrier. Ubiquitous was the name of his game. Jon Dixon, too, had a good all-round game. Harold Mills was feeling the affects of the 'flu', and showed it at times. He was forced to leave the field late in the second half with what proved to be water on the knee. The replacement forward was Mana Bell.

Scorers for University were: T. Jamison (3 tries), M. Smith (2 tries). H. Mills, W. Moore, J. Dixon, W. McKelvie, and M.Muru. D. Bidois kicked two conversions. This failure to Kick the goals could yet cost the team a match, though no doubt Dave will be working on this facet of his play. Of the many goalkickers used, he certainly looks the most promising. The forwards, too, are not as yet showing their true capabilities. Failure to turn in the tackle was especially evident at times. But Varsity do have 4 points from two games in the Senior Second Division.

The Junior First team was not so fortunate, losing 34-3 against a very strong and fit Porirua City A side. But there are quite a few promising players and with better combination this team should be producing winning League before too long.

Perhaps most important of all, there will be a 'do' in the Union Hall on Saturday 27th May. Come along and have a really great time. Watch for more details on the notice-boards.

David Pennington.