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The 35th Battalion

Rugby

Rugby

Despite the concrete-like surfaces of the playing fields of Fiji, rugby was always followed with interest. Injuries were seldom serious but practically every player suffered abrasions. These often turned septic and this caused a number of good players to withdraw from playing the game. On the ground at Namaka Camp many thrilling battles were watched by large crowds. During the week days company contests were held. Unfortunately no records or results are available from the Fijian days.

On the return to New Zealand in July 1942, the rugby fans turned out in full strength. This time the grounds were more to our liking. Each Wednesday afternoon company games were played, while on Saturdays inter-unit competitions were held. Once again it is regretted that no results are available other than the result of a match at Te Aroha. This was between our battalion and the 37th Battalion. Te Aroha residents filled Rugby Park to witness this match, the gate proceeds being given to the National Patriotic Fund Board. The result was a win for the 37th Battalion after a closely contested game.

In Necal, at Nepoui Valley, the flat area lent itself to sports and before long two fine fields were constructed. The main field was complete with two grandstands. The most thrilling battle witnessed on this ground was when the 37th Battalion played the 2,9th Battalion in the semi-final of the Barrowclough Cup. The result was 11-6 in favour of the 37th Battalion.

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In the Barrowclough Cup competition the battalion was eliminat' ed after a hard match with a fine team from the 30th Battalion. This match was played on 3 July, the result being: 30 Battalion 11 points: 35 Battalion nil.

When the unit returned to Necal after its tour of the forward area, rugby started off again. An organised competition was unfortunately impossible, and the units finally became too depleted to put a team on the field. The unit had its wins and losses, and it is unfortunate that a chronicle of results cannot be given.