Salient. An organ of student opinion at Victoria College Wellington, N.Z. Vol. 2, No. 7 May 3, 1939

Hockey

Hockey

By holding last year's champion team. Karori, to a 4-all draw in a practice match last Saturday. Varsity showed that this year they have a team considerably better than in recent years; and with a little more practice and co-ordination between the players, should be a force to be reckoned with in the deciding of championship honours.

It is indeed pleasing to find the team with so strong a half line this season, for it is usually the strength or weakness of this section that decides the rate of a match. They were called on to face as strong an opposition as they will meet during the season, and they came through with living colours. The backs also played soundly, especially Kirkham.

More should be heard of this player, and he will be very unlucky if he does not gain a place in the Senior team.

The forwards combined well, but showed their old weakness—an inability to seize chances in the circle. This might be remedied by a reshuffling of the players. Naidu on the left wing played a very nice game but would be well advised to get rid of the ball a little quicker.

The probable side for the opening match will be:—

Goal: Benjamin, Backs: Dixon, Banks. Halves: Buchanan, Sharp. Newcombe. Forwards: Souness, Braithwaite, Shaw, Cole, Naidu.

In the lower grades, positions will be uncertain for the first few matches, and criticism of players will be left till next term. At present two players at least show distinct promise. Whitham for Senior B, and Whitlock, a young player who should before long be gaining a place in a higher grade.