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I THE WELSH LEAGUES
I THE WELSH LEAGUES I C. AND D. R. UNION. I The Season's Prospects. I EBY SPO,KES."I I THE UNION OF WELSH LEAGUES. To be an official of this body is no sinecure, even in the summer months. Secretary K. W. John, with Vice-chairman R. Backland and the writer. when others have been dis- porting themselves by the sad sea waves, have been bard at it in the hills and valleys organ- isir/g new leagues, amalgamating others, and suggesting alterations here and additions tflere. The work accomplished, however, should provp beneficial to the juniors, and thereby recompense those connected with tne Union who have voluntarily (sacrificed their summer holidays. The Union's work in settling' club and league appeals has increased at such a rapid rate uiac duiuig' the season it will be neces- sary for montn.y meeting's of the oommittee to ce he.d at Cardiff. Then, again, the Welsh Rugby Union has decided tnat decisions of the Union on all questions of fact are final, 'i'nis is as it should be, for all such matters are decided by a commitiee absolutely impartial and uncon- nected wth appealmg or defending clubs and leagues. Clubs affiliated to any league or union 1ll membership with the junior union are reminded that this reason they are not allowed to arrange 'friendly" matches with eluta who are not affiliated to any control- ling body. This decision has been oome to unanimously by the leagues in order to pre vent the many "scenes" which occurred at matches last season between controlled and uncontrolled clubs. No deterrent punish- ment could be meted o.u.t tor offences in such games, and, therefore, the decision come to is a v. ise one. The inter-league contests this season will be run on a new system. Full details will lie made known later.
CARDIFF AND DISTRICT RUGBY…
CARDIFF AND DISTRICT RUGBY UNION. I On Tuesday next entries to the three leagues close. Clubs cannon be accepted aiter Lha-t date. Old players desirous of officiating a.s are requested, to send in applica- tions at once. It is probable this season the Mallett Cap will be open to all affiliated clubs. The matter is to be discussed with the Cardiff iootball Club next Tuesday week. The re play for the semi-final of the Bhield between tsirch^rove and Cardiff Welsh, fixed tor to-day, is the outcome of the decision ot the Vtt.sii football Lilian. and Union of League* that a re,fierce has not the power to allow an ordered off player to return in a cup match when extra time is played. Some of last season's referees have organised a Carditf and District Rugby Union Referees' Society" to protest against W(,I,h Uncn referees being appointed, as last season, for the semi and final cup matches, and to arrange a. tariff of expenses, payable by home clubs..Messrs. W. J. Hart. R. Williams, and the writer have been asked to meet a. deputation of the new society next week. The Union's strength this season will be about thirty clubs. Penylan, Roxburgh, Liandaff, Lisvane, and Whitchurch, although aftiliated, will not compete for points. On Tuesday next the District team to meet Cardiff next Saturday will 'be chosen. Fixture lists are almost all completed. They ebouid be forwarded to the secretary of the Union this week. Clubs failing to do this will have their matches arranged by the aub- committee. Rom illy and Canton Wanderers meet on the 25th to decide the league game postponed ftym last season. The result of this match wifl affect the chances of Canton Wanderers, Grargetown. and Romilly in the struggle for the championship of last season's league. Transfers will be dealt with at the next meeting- of the Union. Clubs should SeE recruits are eligible. Players must all be registered. Cardiff Harlequins heard the Midlands was a yeritable gold mine for guarantee matches. The secretary has been offered two startling guarantees. Leicester Belgra ye wrote that, fearing half-gate terms would be too small, their ciub would give the 'Quins a guarantee of a sovereign! Oadby Football Club actually offered ?2 'Os. As the expe-i at the lowest in the tour would be ?10. tl)? Midlands w¡H not be visited by t-be Card-Iff club.
NEATH AND DISTRICT.|
NEATH AND DISTRICT. The league has arranged two matches with Neath II. It is hoped to unearth some talent for the all blacks. All last season's officers have been re elected, and, thanks to the Neath Football Club, who subscribed £10, the league has a email balance in hand. Thie..season a second division of the league will be run. It bids fair to be a great success, feeing the keen way the youngsters are taking it, a). It is feared that the Eight Hours Act will handicap the senior clubs a good deal. The Old Boys' division of the league should be one Of the strongest in Wales, judging by present appearances.
WEST OF LLAMELLY LEAGUE.
WEST OF LLAMELLY LEAGUE. The prospects of th,is league for the coming season are distinctly promising. What was a few years ago a Soccer stronghold let now dotted with Rugger clubs, which have got ever their first difficulties successfully, and are looking forward to a good deal of sport in a few months without the harassing cares of a "perpetual lack of pence." Mr. Mabe, of Tenby, and Mr. W. H. Davies, Neyland, a pair of hardworking officials, again fill the posts of treasurer and secretary. The leaigue competitions, which are two- fold, will take place on the old linee. The league CU, with medals for winners and runners-tip, will be cered for the league com- vtition, which will conclude with the end of February. For the rest of the season the handsome knock-out cup purchased by the league year, wi:, be given to the b<vt tAira in cup-ties. Thus football interest will be kept up to the end of the season, as the sHjb w>icb is hopelessly beaten in the league may still have an opportunity of winning the fcac-ck-oiit. It is good news that the Welsh Regiment, ihe league winners la.,t season, will be with us for the greatest part of this. Neyland, the ■knock-out winners. will go strong, whilst Tenby, the league runners-up. will have a. deciiedly useful team, though Charlie Evans's flit North will disorganise the third line. Milford, who have striven gallantly amid adverse circumstances, will also make a bold bid for top honours. Pem- broke Dock, Pembroke, Langwm, Whitland, Haverfordwest, and Nar berth will figure in the competitions, and, as thev all have some promising youngsters, who are very keen, the leaders will have to go all the way to beat them. Ooodwick Harbour Works are expected to do well, and have "a good lot to draw upon. A great effort will be made this year to induce the junior clubs of Carmarthenshire aDd Cardiganshire to join the league, and a group competition being arranged with every prospect of success.
SWANSEA AND DISTRICT.
SWANSEA AND DISTRICT. There is quite a re":vol of local Rugger in Swansea district. The Swansea and District L-ague's ann-umi meeting was the best attended and the most enthusiastic held in the leagu", history. The officials are Messrs. R. 13-uekland (chair- man), J. Davies "lice ehii-rira,-r). Jim John (hen. treasurer). and W. G. Andrewartha isfKTft-aryl. All laft season's officers were heartily thanked for their services. The following clubs will conetitute the senior division.: —Ca •« t Je Stars. G-owerton, Irendro-s, Mumbles, Skewen. Cwmtwrch. and S,.t. Alban's. Th- second division will be made up as follows.—St. Joseph's. Black Watch, Pontardawe Seconds, G-ortaeinon, Ammanford iccond- Hamilton, W'aunar- lwydd, and Star Rovers. An endeavour will be made to form a t1-7"II divi=ion. Among the clubs anxious to join n'e BayMiffe, Mansel, Sketty All Whites, Gendros Seconds, Hebron TJnited, and Clydach Stars. At the time of writing- the only teams who tiavf- not re-entered the league are Myndd bach and Port Temrant Stars. No clule will e admitted afte- September 7. It is anticipated a strong Thursday league will be formed for the John Davies and Edwin Hall Cups. Swansea. and District League is in for a record ,,('o:1"OT1 and the Cardiff Union will have to look to their laurels as the strongest local Union in the United Kingdom. Oendroe, so the evergreen hon. seer a tar y, Mr. L. J. Job. opines, will be a hot lot.
BRIDGEND AND DISTRICT.
BRIDGEND AND DISTRICT. The league will. be officered as follow3:- President, Mr. T D. Schcfield; vice-president, Mr. T. J. Job (Nan-tymoel); hon. secretary, Mr. Tom Bennett (Tor.du), and hon. treasurer, SI r. Tom Matthews. We are in for a jolly fine season, and never were the prospects of the Rugby game better than at present. There are eleven clubs in membership of the senior division, viz Nantymoel (holder of championship), Cefri Cribbwr i'mnners-up), Maesteg Ra risers, Nantymoel Excelsiors. Llangynwyd, Blaen- garw, Bridgend Seconds, Llantoarran, CUerau United, and Pontycymmer. The CS-ilfach Qoeh Club. wfho were expel13d, are applying for re-admission. The club has been re-organised. and new officials appornrted. With George Jones as scribe. 8i Jones skipper, and such stalwarts on tbe -,omniittee as George Evans and Jack Davies, wo old Penygraig forwards, the club is sore ob&=m,m different tinea. There will be a second dtivimon in place of the Old Boya' League. It will be. open to players up to 21 years of age. Already fourteen clubs have applied for admission. Clubs are realising the power of the league. Could not Mr. Schofield hand over the Dewar Shield as the trophy for the senior division? Messrs. Dewar are perfectly willing if he is. Mr. T. J. Job makes a capital chairman at the league meetings. Next Saturday the league team meet Bridg. end, and if I am not mistaken T. D." will receive a shock tha-t day. The following players have been selected:- W. J. Jones (Gilfach Goch), A. W. Coles Cvantymoel), Reg Hanson (Llangynwyd), E J. Jones (Pontycymmer), Dan Hopkins (Blaen- ganv), George Watkins (Cefn Cribbwr), J. E. Boobyer IXantymoelí, G. Butcher (captain). Dick Watkins (Cefn Cribbwr), Jack and Jim Ohillcott, Jack Davies (Nantymoel), W. J Thornta.? (Mae-teg Rangers), Hugh Evans (Blaengarw). and J. Casey (Llangynwyd). It is noteworthy that all the Quartette as well as the outside half are all in the ?hqlastic profession. At inside half there should be a -reaT struggle between "Cockev" Cooke and Buller Watkins. The pair reside in the same district, and, of course, there is red-hot controversy among their supporters as to which is the better player. I hear that Johnny Rogers, the clever little outside half of Tondu Rangers, is to be invited to play for Bridgend later on. He is a good 'un.
|ABERDARE AND DISTRICT.
ABERDARE AND DISTRICT. The league will te stronger than ever, the probable constitution of which will be:— Cwmaman, Mountain Ash Juniors, Aberaman, Cefncoed, Merthyr Juniors, Trecynon, Fen- rhiwceiber, Abercanaid, Heolgerrig, Dowlau3, and Penrhiw. The Cwmaman team will have the use of a new playing ground, and with a few good players from the outside district they fully expect a great season. Rees Thomas has been re-elected captain, and a similar honour has been paid D:ck Thomae, the popular secretary. Mountain Asih Juniors are brimful of enthu- siasm. Last season they captured cup and medals, and mean to make a great alttempt to cry ditto. Aberarman will be led by Harry Miles. D-ai Watt, who last Season assisted Aberaman, has been asked to a«*ist Mountain Ash Seniors. He will be missed, but, as they still have D. R. Evans, Evan Jonc, Jim Brown, T. Miles, Ac., Aberaman should have a good season.
RHYMfUEY VALLEY FUSION.__I
RHYMfUEY VALLEY FUSION. Better luok favoured the fusion bill ellgineered by the Union of Welsh Leagues orer the amalgamation of the two leagues in the Rhymney Valley than that Bill wbich met its fate recently at Westminster. It was my pleasure to be present at the ■feint meeting held at Bargoed with Mr. R W. John. I must heartily congratulate both leagues upon their management of business. Chairman Llewellyn—one of the best—the "old slave," Secretary Rees Jones, Mr. E. P. North-cote, of the junior paction, and all-thc cluib representatives, dealt with the matter in a businesslike, practical way. The result was that it was unanimously decided to amalgamate. Henceforth the Rhymney Valley Junior League will The known a.s the second division of the Rhymney Valley League. The execu- tive c,ommit.tee cf the combination will can- c-iit of one representative of cach of the senior clubs, with three members elected by the second division. Apologies to Mr. Chairman for my ictro duction cf the vexed question of the Rhymnev split at this meeting. The rights and wrongs of the matter do not- at this junc- ture enter into my caJculatians. What I wamt to «ee is one senior club only at Etbym- ney, a,nd v/hii 0h !&eoN ion succeeds in the present jtruggle I care not, as long even- tually a«s one cliib is recognised as t,he premier. The 'league has admitted both. They could do little else, as both applied, and both maintain that they were t,he original club. Still, t,he other clubs do not favour paying two visit, each a sea-soii. to Rhymney for league points. Bargoed and' Aberbargoed, too, have separate clubs. I wish both woubd form one strong club for this district. Rhymney have been, declared the cham- pions, ana are, therefore, holders of cup and medals. The senior section will be composed of Mac,hen, Caerphilly, Bed was, A bet bargoed, Bargoed, Rhymney, Rhymney Town, and United. At the expense of the Sirhowy Valley League Hibernians and Trooegar United llave been affiliated to the second division. PonUottyn and Fleur-de-Lis have dropped cut. Ground troubles" is set down as the main reason. Clubs desiring to play in t.he second divi- sion should ooni.municate with Mr. p,o" Jones, .Rhymney, at once. Deri. Abertridwr, Rhymney II. t Rhymney Scarlets, Meithyr Juniors, and Tredegar Hibernians are already in, whilst there i.s good prospect of clubs being raised a-t Poehriw, Maesycwmmer, and Aberbargoed. Mr. E. P. Nort.hcote has undertaken the management of the Old Boys' section of the league. The choice is a happy one.
SCHOOLBOY RUGGER.I
SCHOOLBOY RUGGER. I It will be well on in October before school- boy Rugby starts in earnest. The misunler standing with the Welsh Football Union has been removed, and financial support froai the pare (it Union and the "gate" at the international mat-ch v. England, which will be played at Cardiff, will place the Welsh Schools Union in a position to foster the ga me.
IMONMOUTHSHIRE VALLEYS COMBINE…
MONMOUTHSHIRE VALLEYS COMBINE AND GROWL. Monmouthshire Valleys have struck out in a new line. Refused recognition by the Monmouthsnire Senior League, who have declined to accept a few of the clubs, eucn as Talywain, Ac., who are far too hot for a junior competition, the Valleys League assert that if they continue a-s in the past they ra.nk as neither a. senior nor a junior league. They decline to continue this unsatisfactory st,alte of affairs, and, therefore, boldly declare, that in future they will pose as a senior league. Some of the league's supporters feel so sore over (the attitude of Gwent's senior league that they are in favour of strong action to contest the right of the Monmouth- shire League to declare itself the premier league of the oouDlty. Probably the Welsh Football Union will endeavour to bring about happier feelings between the leagues. The two organisation's in combination could do a vast amount of work for the welfare af the game. Talywain. a,nd other clubs in the TaUey le?t?ue. by their victories over the senior karue <-tu??s in ?a?t seasons, have prove'll th,e?r strength. Surely, the inclusion of hhese c4t,bs in the senior ieagme would add to remove all trouble, and allow the valleys league to cater for the juniors. The new cluibs in the league this season a.re Abercarn, Newbridge, and Cwmibran Albion^. The Western Valleys League has amalga- mated with the valleys league, but have elected separate officials.
IRHONDDA VALLEYS LEAGUE. I
RHONDDA VALLEYS LEAGUE. The working of the league towards the end of las tseason was not as smooth as desirable, and th-erefore the Uuia?- ? smoof oth as desirable, and therefore the Union of Welsh Leagues intervened. The general meeting was presided over by Mr. R. Buckland (Swansea), vice-chairman of the Union of Leagues, and, happily, all trouble was removed. Secretary C. R. Everson and Chairman Will Gamlin are two such enthusiasts for the game that last season's ending was most dis- heartening. The league will undoubtedly do its best to keep the amateur carrying code alive. Ystrad and Tylorstown both claimed laftt season's championship, and the Union of Weiah League was called upon to decide. Both clubs have been ordered to meet in a. final at Llwyinypia. Although clubs have had, or will have, their "faith money" returned they should not forget that tthey muart lodge the money with the league early this season. I hope the rumour that Lewis-Merthyr are leaving the league is incorrect. Things are now put right, and I should like to see such a sporting club in again. J hope energetic J. Davey will use persuasion. Why not one division only in the coming reason? Many of the second division clubs are quite capable of fighting for honours in the first division.
I PONTYPRIDD DISTRICT RUCBY…
PONTYPRIDD DISTRICT RUCBY UNION. The union has a bright future. With such workers as Will Gamlin as chancellor of the exchequer, A. Pottee as scribe, and T. J. Thomas, things ought to go well. There are a very large number of clubs in and around Pontypridd. Financially, things are flourishing. Rhyd- felan, Pontypridd United, Abercynon, Cilfynydd 'Quins, Treforest, Garth, Tail's Well Rovers aref,oreet), and Ynysfowl axe a few of the clubs in.
IRHONDDA DISTRICT _OLD __BOYS.
I RHONDDA DISTRICT OLD BOYS. I Clubs wishing to join for the present season are asked to communicate at once with Mr. W. Gamlin, Pontypridd. Treherbert is not lost to amateurism. Two old bovs' clubs will be run this season. Thanks' to the efforts o.f Mr. Sid MaitLwaring a new ground has been secured. Tom Hibbs is again in harness, so things look bright. Senior clubs oan footer the Rugger code and help themselves for the fut-ure by lend- ing their grounds, when not needed, to the old boys' clubs. Probably there will be an invasion of the A,berd,a-re Valley in order to organise old boys' clubs there. The leader is General Gamlin.
NEWPORT LEAGUE.
NEWPORT LEAGUE. The officials have all been re-elected. The entry to the league is still open, afid the hon. secretary, Mr. A. E. Vale, would be glad to hear of clubs desiring to join. The annual meeting was held on Tuesday,. The league has a debit balance of nearly jM. and are anxiously awaiting a. grant from the Welsh Football Union.
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JOHN BUTCHER has been groundsman at Newport for 30 years. HUGH JONES, Mardy, has lost none of his form, and he will continue to turn out. DR. ORGAN (Brithdir) will assist the villagers. REES JARMAN, Rhymney Farmer Lilies, has worked hard for the success of Rugby foot. ball. He learned the rudiments of the game with the old Stars some eight or nine years ago, afterwardii joining the Lilies, with whom he figured prominently. He I then joined his Majesty's forces and fought I in the Boer War. On returning home. he assisted the Tredegar team. Later he returned to his native heath, and played for his old club for a season.. Lsiit season, owing to illness, Rees only figured in a few matches, and evidently now p-reiers to watch for possible recruits, as he has accepted a seat on the selection committee of the Lilies.
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J. BOYLAND (Penga.m) is a very unassuming hon. secretary, but a steadfast worker. M'VICAR, the crack Rhymney centre, will probably skipper the new town fifteen. JACK DENTY, who played for Pontlottyn throughout last season at back, has this y,ear joined Troedrhiwfuwch. DANDO, who left Pontlottyoi Juniors for New Tredegar at the end of last season, has this season returned to Pontlottyn. R. S. MORGAN, the new Rhymney secretary, has always taken a very keen interest in sport; in fact, several se'tswis ago he played at outside right for the old Rhymney Soccer team, his runs being often admired. Howe*r, during the past few s?a?ns he Howet t,, d his attention to rug, and anticipates, de-;pite the secession of several of the old players, organisin6- iquite as strong a team as laiJt season. TOM I/BGGE, Potltlottyn's goalie last season, has left for Ton-Pentre. 1t is a great loss to Pontlottyn. TOM JONES, captain of last season's Pont- lottyn Juniors, has this season thrown in his lot with Pontlottyn Southend. WILL EVANS, who played for Troedrhiw- fuwoh last season, is to have a trial in goal for Llanbradach. DAVID WILDE, Elliottst-own School captain, its one of the most promising lads in the rewly-foirmed schools leasme (Rhymney Valley). Last season he was chosen to captain Section 1 of the league against Section 2. the former winning by 11 goals i to nil. When the United Schools of New 'Tredgar met Gladstone ^Cardiff) "Dai" was again appointed skipper, and was con- I spicuous in a fine -ame, which was won by New Trede?ar by 6 goals to ?, notwithstand- ing that Gladstone had the redoubtable Clem Allen in their :NWks. He has played in every position (except oal) for his school, but is a veritable marvel for a boy at centre half. LI FORD, the Rhymney skipper, is un- doubtedly one of the cleverest exponents in the art of half-back play in the valley, as; most of his opponents will readily admit. He commenced his football at a very tender age, and was selected for the 6enior team some eight seasons ago. Besides playing for the seniors. h? yet finds time to look after the juniors, and last season organised the Rhymney Lilies Old Boys' team, who, under his able tuition, ran into the final with Bedwas Old Boys, which match has yet to j be decided. SOUTH WALES SOCCER ITES are congratu- lating themselves on the fact that Dr. Stewart Dunbar has been elected a member of the Welsh Football Association. This is the first time in the history of the game that South Wales has four direct represen- tatives on the council, Mir. H. Williams (Brithdir), Mr. J. R. Stephens (.Cardiff), Mr. T. D. Jones (Aberdare), and Dr. Stewart Dunbar, the latter securing 59 votes out of a possible 72. JOHNNY THOMAS, Mountain Ash, who for the pact four years has proved himself one of the cleverest players as full-back in Wales, is a Mountain Ash man. His first love was Soccer, but after a year or two at that code he threw in his lot with the Ccfnpennar Rugby team, and has played under the Rugby code ever since. While j playing S-occet he was well known at Aber- cynen and Abeivon, having played for both clubs. While playing for Oefnpennar he became a marked man, and was soon transferred to the Mountain Ash premier team. This took place four seasons ago, and he is now in his best form. For the ene-ui-ng setson he has been chosen as vice- captain. He is 24 years of. age, stands 5ft. Sin., and turns the scale at list.
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CONGRATULATIONS to T. H. Vile, the New- port captain, on becoming the proud father of a daughter. There have been many jckss since the auspicious event of Monday last that the child ought to be bcought up "on the bottle," seeing that "Tommy," the skipper, is junior partner in the firm of Vile Brother*, who are table water manufacturers. TOM LEWIS, after many years' service with the Pontardawe Club, has been elected cap- tain. He started playing a.s inside half, and since then has made himself prominent. He has been toLd to hold himself in readi- ness to deputise Dick Jones in the Swansea team. Tom is a great fa.vourite among foot-1 ball fl dowers. He i, 24 years cf age, weighs 9st. 51b., and standi- 5ft. 6in. Tom is always in good form. He is a good cricketer, and interested in ail branches of sport.
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NEWPORT PLAYERS, club members, and the public in general will be glad to learn that Mr. Wallace Jones, the Association hon. secretary of the football section of the Omnibus Newport Club, is recovering from his long and trying illness. He has had a severe bout of rheumatism, which has been hanging about for some months. He has been away taking the waters, which appear to have done him a deal of good.
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ALEC RUSSELL, Pontypool. is one of the latest recruits to the pfek, and one who has easily retained his place since his first selection, rather nlore than a 6eason ago, by sheer merit as a sterling, unflagging player. One of the most unassuming fellows it would be possible to meet, he na-turaliy has the esteem of all his fellow-players, who ullanimously regard him ae a forward who will undoubtedly make a name for himself ere long-, bar accidents. He com- menced his football career about three seasons ago, when he turned out as an absolute novice for the Pontypool Seconds, but he hid not been playing long before he thoroughly grasped the rudiments of the game, and when an opportunity pre- sented itself he was given a trial in the fiiv-t team. He then created such a favour- able impression by his genuine scrimmag- ing, dete-rmincd. tackling, and fast following up that he has been selected regularly ever since. Standing about 6ft. lOin. and weigh- ing rather more than list., he is only just ove" 20 years oCge,. 3.Lr.d no doubt has a successful future in store. NEW PORT'S GOALPOSTS were (re-erected on Monday last, and since then there has been a good deal of quiet individual practice. But as in most. other seasons, a good proportioTh-aoout half—of the teams lives away from the town, and combined practices will be arranged again on Wed- nesday evenings in the gymnasium. CHARLIE PRITGHARD'iS crooked knee has not been much in evidence since the end of last season, and he is of opinion that he might give it another trial this sØhson. Last winter Charlie had to stand down from the Newport team for the greater part of the time on account of more than one mishap to the game knee. His place as captain was taken by T. H. Vile, the vice- captain, who succeeds to the command this season. BARRY WEST END Association team has been fortunate in securing the services of two promising Cogan Old Boys players in Dick Lewis and R. T. Dadds. Lewis was appointed captain of the Cogan team for this season, but joined the West End com- bination. Dadds was then elected as his successor to the captaincy of the Old Boys, but he also vacated the position in favour of the Barry club.
ELLIOTTSTOWN SCHOOL ELEVEN.I
ELLIOTTSTOWN SCHOOL ELEVEN. I TOP ROW: Mr. Richards, Mr. Poster, a-nd Mr. Airdric. SECOND ROW: A. Lewis, W. Jones, L. Lleyd, and W. Bo wen. THIRD ROW: James Rogers, David Wilde, Edgar Phillips (captain), W. J. Bowcn, and T. Da-vies. BOTTOM. ROW; T. J. Jones and D. J. Bees. [Photo, Powell, New Tredegar.
! By Way of a Start.
By Way of a Start. HOPEFUL SIGNS PLENTIFUL. [By GEORGE MERCER.] I The long holiday has come to an end all too soon, ct all too slowly. It all depends. Most things do. When the footballs and gdal-nets were put away, on the day when the merry May-pole took the stage, the beginning1 of September seemed months a'way. So it was. Four. And now, almost before one has had time to loak at an almanac, come the old enrthusiosim, the referee's whistle, and the "Football Edition." One might almost think that there has been no break, no interval, no rest longer than the ordinary one of an ordinary fixture lid—so fa-miliar does it all seem. Mutch has hap<pened, especially in senior circles. Cur senior clubs, no longer content to be playing entirely amongst themselves, are now bringing to our luidst programmes which sho.w that prominent and leading Eng- lish clubs will visit the district. The carrying out cf the fixture lisrts will entail an increased expense for the away matches, but the com- mittees of the clubs are business men, who have weighed up the. pros. and cons. The doings of our Western and Southern leaguers will give plenty of variety, and everybody will z-urely wish them success footbally and financially. But, after all is said and done, the strength and prosperity of the code are shown by the number and st-and,ing of the clubs below the senior status. The numerous leagues which -cat-e,r for the multitude^ hav,a pretty well all held their annual meetings, and, if they are any sign, the observer should be satis- fied. Leagues which started in a humble way a few years ago now get so many applica- tions that two and three divisions are hardly sufficient to meet the demand. The officials of these organisations put *in ani enormons amount of time and work, and the game, thinking of it as a person, owes these many honorary workers a great deal. That they hold office season after season also shows that they have the confidence of the clubs in membership. From Pembrokeshire to the Wye the repo'rts are all the same. Dates are being fixed up, and the problem of managing for the short afternoons of December and Janu- ary is the chief one of the astute secre- taries. Easter next year is very early (March 27), and, a-fter the holiday arrangements a,re cleared away, there will be left a clear month's football. But for clubs who play on. parks and other recreation grounds it is possible that they will be well advised to reckon Easter as the end of the home matches when the fixtures are being arranged. At all events, possible disappoint- ments and re-arrangements may thus be avoided. The clubs with private grounds will be able to have a good wind-up, provided, of course, that April behaves itself better than April, 'e9. Another April like the last one is not wanted for a few more years. Just a word by way of reminder to club secretaries. Don't forget, if not done, the E\atter of affiliation to the South Wales Association. The secretary is the same able official as last year—Mr. Hart, 36, Moorland- road, Ca,rdiff-a,nd the affiliation fee of 5s. should be sent to him at the earliest oppor- tunity, if inclusion in the printed list of clubs and secretaries is desired. This printed list is absolutely necessary to every secre- tary, and the fuller it is the greater its con- venience. The same hint will apply to referees and their registration. Delay will cause disappointment. As in other seasons, I shall welcome any queries or anything in the correspondence line. I don't promise that every line every week will interest every, one. That would be an impossible thing to attempt, even as brand new Budgets cannot please everybody. But it will be my endeavour week by week to deal with interesting points in. South Wales Soccer. What is missing one week may appear another, and the sum tota.l next May will be found to embrace pretty well all topics, just as funny men whisper that a sausage skin holds more than one would think For a first instalment this must do. It is general in; tone. By intent. On purpose. I will dip into my ba,g of details and glean- ings next week. Let me end this preliminary canter or kick-round-the-goal with wishing an enjoyable season to everyone connected with the game. Every club cannot finish up with the proud title of cup or league winner. But all can aim for and obtain a good repu- tation, that of a good sporting club, one who played to win, bill. won or lost with eqiuailly good temper. The win, tie, or wrangle" microbe which is semetipies red of is not required to pay a visit to South Wales. Keen rivals all. The trophies to the best. The best of sport for all.
i Merthyr Town Soccer.I
Merthyr Town Soccer. I CAREERS OF THE TEAM.. 1 P. W. KELLY, who has been appointed cap- tain and who plays half-back, is 23 years of age, and was born at Lamelon, near Falkirk. He first began to play when seven- teen years old, and whilst a member of the Cam el on junior team, won five gold medals. He afterwards joined the Lauriston. Juniors. who got into the eemi-tinal for the Scottish Junior cup. Subsequently he became attached to the Berwick Rangers, and assisted them in c,arrying off the East oi Scotland cup. He next went to Alnwick, and piayed with the St. James's club, who Avon the North timber land cup; subsequently jrining the North Shields Athletic Club, who won the Northumberland, Tynemouth, and Northern Alliance cups. Transferring himself to Sunderland, be played for the fii.5t and second league teams, and it was from Sunderland that he came to Merthyr. In the majority of the teams of which he was a mamber he acted as captain. JAMES TOWARD ie 20 years of age, and was born a.t Newcastle. Plays forward. Commenced playing with the Newton club in the Newcastle and District Amateur League, and subsequently joined the White- ley Head Swifts at Hanley. He next became a member of the Granger M'arket olub, and r l,ayed in the Newcastle Tradesmen's League. Eventually he went to Sunderland, and belonged to the Sunderland team at the same time as his comrade Kelly. It a prolific goal-getter, his record showing in one season 17 goals for Newton, 20 for Granger Market, and 24 for Sunderland. J. WHITTAKER is 23 years of age, and a native of Bolton. Plays forward, and started with the Bolton Pawnbrokers Wed- nesday team, who won the chamipionebip in the Wednesday League. For four seasons he played for Manchester City. He then jcined the Clifton Orients, and after- wards the Roesendale club, who p.Layed in the Lancashire combination. S. WIGHTM AN is 21 years Of age, and was born at Moresby, Cumberland. Plays full- back, and when seventeen joined the Moresby Park club., subsequently played for Workington, who won the Cumberland cup. C. E. DAW is 26 years of age, and was born at Don<?aater. Takes the position of goal- keeper. Hae played in the first teams for Luton, Leicester Fosse, Bradford City. and Oldham Athletic clubs. J. W. CHURCHILL is 21 years of age, and a riativo of Portsmouth. <lays half-back. For two seasons played for Portlimouth first as an amateur, and then as a "pro." Is the possessor of two medals for his prowess as a footballer. Of last season's players whose services have been retained: W. Bromley, D. W. Davies, W. Davies, J. Wootton, and F. Pem- benton. Particulars of these have already pbll "Soccerite's" Forecasts I FOR LEAGUE MATCHES PLAYED SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11. ENGLISH LEAGUE.—DIVISION I. *Aston Villa v. 'Chelsea. •Bristol City v. Sheffield Wedneday. *Bury v. Bradford City. Liverpool v. Blackburn Rovers. •Middlesbrough v. Woolwich Arsenal. Newcastle United v. Notts Forest.* Notts County v. Sunderland.* Preston North End v. Everton.* 'Sheffield Unitwl v. Bolton Wanderers. .TottEmbtam Hotspurs v. Manchester United. DIVISION IL Barasley v. Birmingham. Bradford v. Leicester Fosse.* •Burnley v. Stockport Coointby. •Fulhoim v. 0 loss op. Gainsborough Trinity v. Blackpool.* OG,r,i,m,shy Town v. Clapton Orient. "Leeds City v. Derby County. 'Manchester City v. Lincoln City. Oldham Athletic v. West Bromwich Albion •Wolverhamyton Wanderers v. Hull City. SOUTHERN LEAGUE. .West Ham United v. Brentford. •Brighton v. Coven.try City. Exeter City v. Bristol Rovers, •MiLwall v. Croydon Common. •Crystal Palace v. Watford. Queen's Park Rangers v. Leyton. Luton v. Southend United.* New Brom.pton v. Southampton.* •Northampton Y. Plymouth Argyle. Portsmouth v. Norwich City.* "Swindon v. Reading. Played on g,rournds of the first-named. Asterisk (*) denotes probaple winner. Drawe left open. I
BY "ANDY" AITKEN. I
BY "ANDY" AITKEN. I FAMOUS INTERNATIONAL HALF-BACK'S REMINISCENCES. First Article. I (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.) My football career has been neither a brief nor an uneventful one, but to me the time has flown all too quickly, for it seems but a, few years since the afternoon I travelled in to Glasgow from Ayr to interview Walter Golding and James Telford, anent signing for Newcastle Uuited. An Energetic Official. I James Telford, the moat far-seeing and active director Newcastle United or, perhaps, any club ever had, is one of the finest gentle- men I have met in football. It is niainlydue to his foresight that the club owes its present "Andy" Aitken. exa-lted position, for it was he who gathered together the players who have placed the club where it is. No journey was too great for him to undertake in search of a player, and, if the man he was after showed form likely to be useful at St. James's Park, well, MT. Telford considered he had been amply rewarded for the trouble he had gone to. One Week he would be at Bristol, the next at Aberdeen, or perhaps Inverness, or mayhap Colches- ter. He certainly must have an inti- exalted position, for it, was he who gathered together the players who ha-ve placed the club where it is. No journey was too grea,t for him to undertake in t'earch of a player, and, if tihe man he was after showed form likely to be ueeful at St. James's Park, well, Mr. Telford conls.idered. he .had beeri amply rewarded for the trouble he had gone to. One week lie would be at Bristol, the next at Aberdeen, or perhaps Inverness, or mayhap Colchester. He certainly must have an inti- mlalta knowledge of the geography off the Bri- tish Isles, especially that part of it where Association football is in favour. The pity is that his services have been lost to tiie club; but, like many more, I truet the loss is but a temporary one, and that. the future will find him once more in his old position. Signing-On." I I toad been rooomniended to the Newcastle people by James Logan, of Ayr. the centre- forward who had played so brilliantly for Notts County when they beat Bolton Wan- derers in the final of the English Cup. If my memory serves me right he scored three goals that day, and that against the fi-nest defence that has ever represented any club— Sutcliffe, Sommerville, and Jones, a real in. ternational trio representing England, Scot- land, and Wales. Logan .accompanied me to Glasgow, with a view also to signing for Newcastle United. A day or two previous to my journey I had a rather amusing experi- ence, a garbled account of which I read some time ago; but the following is an accurate description of what really took place. I commenced playing for Ayr near the end of a season, and again fixed up for them for the following season; but the next year I was persuaded to throw in my lot with AyrPark- Kouse, where I played inside right to W. Ken- nedy, who later went to Newton-Heath; hav- ing on the other side of me John Cameron, later of Queen's Park, Everton, and Totten- ham Hotspur. Playing for Ayr that season was a junior club-mate of mine named Frank M'Avoy, who informed me that Ayr Club was turning pro- fessional the following season, and urged me to join him again, and to sign a professional form for them on the quiet. No one would be any the wiser, and the form could be kept back till the .proper time. Ulti-niatelk I agreed to do 80, the remuneration to be paid to me being 10 per cent. of the gate momey; and let me tell you there was little danger of me becoming a millionaire at that rate, big as it seemed An Amusing Experience. I Judge of my surprise the day after. I had signed when I heard that M'Avoy had been transferred to Woolwich Arsenal. Coming to the conclusion that I had been signed so that I could be transferred later, I there and then decided not to play for Ayr. How to get the form back Ih.1Id signed eeemed a, task beyond me, hut setting my brains to work I evolved a scheme which I hoped would prove successful. Taking Kennedy, our outside right, up to the secretary's house. I told him he also wanted to play for Ayr, and advised him to lose no time in signing him. The bait took oil right, but on the secretary producing the forms Kennedy refused to sign till he had seen the form I had adhibited my signature to. The secretary was removing at the. time, and his house was turned almost upside down, but going to a drawer he took out his coat, drew the form from an inside pocket, and after showing it to Kennedy replaced it in the pocket and laid the coat back in the drawer. Pretending to be quite satisfied, Kennedy agreed to sign, and they went into another room, where there Was a table, to complete the matter. As soon as I was left alone I was into that pocket and had the registra- tion form before you could have said "knife." It was my intention to go down to the back door and burn it-the form, not the door— but being a non-smoker I didn't have a match, so I did the next best thing, and was off home as fast as my legs could carry me, and on reaching there into the fire went that form, and I sat down and laughed and laughed until my mother thought I had gone balmy. On recovering my gravity I was able to convince her there was a method in my madness. Pays for His Transfer. I But that did not end the affair, for on ascertaining his loss the secretary threatened to prosecute me for stealing the form. Now there was a nice thing to do. The man had either no sense of humour or else he had little regard for the dictum of Robert Burns, of immortal nMTDOfry, who l-ovingly wrote of hiF birthplace as Auld Ayr, whtom ncer a toon 9,Liirpames for honest men," &c. Eh, sirs, and here they threaten to lift" me for stealing: Say no more to me about the kindly feeling that prompts "brither Scots the world o'er," for I had to pay them jE4 to settle the matter-the only known instance of a player paying for his own transfer, so I suppose I am unique in that respect. However, I and the good folks of Ayr have had many a .laugh over that incident, which, by tlhe way, ha-s taken longer to tell than I anticipated. But to get back to Newcastle. In those days Logan was looked on as a star, while I—well, I was a lesser luminary. But alas! for the fleeting glory of a footballer, Poor Jimmy had a stormy time on Tyneside, while 1. finding the Fates propitious, basked in the smiles of Dame Fortune. Jimmy Logan's Luck. I Memory recalls an incident in Logan's career which had a disastrous effect on his football. We played Grimsby Town at Newcastle in a Second Division match, and they rubbed it into us to the tune of five goals to one. Defeats of this kind are bad enough away from home, but when it is rubbed in before your own spectators—well, you hear all about it, and generally a scape- goat has to be found. On that occasion they had one to hand, for poor Jimmy could do nothing right that day, and it was pitiful to hear the abuse he was subjected to by the spectators, who even went the length of accusing him of selling the match—an absurd accusation to make. At the conclusion of the game he had to be escorted by four policemen to the dressing room, which was then situated tn a public-house quite 300 yards from the field, and I leave it to ybur imagination what Logan had to suffer as he ran the gauntlet of the infuriated. crowd. Poor Jimmy! his race was a short one, for not long afterwards he was struck down by the fell destroyer at Loughborough, and passed into the unknown at an all-too-early age. Taking him for all in all, he was a very decent fellow, and when in form was a really great player, but when he was off colour he was indeed off. Qoes to Newcastle. I When I joined Newcastle United they had only one player, with the exception of Logan, who could have been termed first-class, and he was Bobbie Foyers, the ex-St. Bernard's c He, in my opinion, was one of the finestdnders I have ever seen. He was not big, but he was compactly built, and made every ounce of his weight tell. I can never forget the way he held Jimmy Rose and Malcolm M'Vean, of Liverpool, at St- James's Park when that couple were considered, and rightly so, the best right wing in the country. But, unfor- tunately, Foyers had a comparatively short career, tor he was anything but a friend to himself, with the inevitable result he was soon finished. More's the pity, for he wate a great little player, an ornament to the game, a gem wfio might have scintillated for years had he cared to.
INtXT WEK II
I NtXT WEK I I An Ideal Partner—How Newcastle Lost WUMe I Wardrobe—A Brand New Team-HL?t for Talent-Barney and His Fags "-The I Tria;ls of Getting Fit.
SKITTLES.!
SKITTLES. A general meeting of the Cardiff aiid Dis- trict Skittle League will be held at the Bristol and South Wal-es Hotel on Wednesday next at eight, o'clock. All clubs desirous of affiliating with the league this season are invited to be represented.
A BRIGHT OUTLOOK I
A BRIGHT OUTLOOK I [By SOCCERITE."I I The prospects of the Cardiff and Distriot Wednesday League are exceedingly bright, and this season will eclipse the successful initial effort of 19C8-9. Followers of the Soccer code who cannot get to Saturday mla,tohes are in for a good time, and the mid- week programme arranged by the league is one that will do much to further popularise the "footer" game in Cardiff and district. Mr. J. C. Biddle presides over a strong com- mittee, and is ably deputised by Mr. F. Brad- ford (Penarth), whose experience among league clubs is invaluable in a new organisa- tion. Secretary F. Smith tells me that over 250 players are at the disposal of the sixteen clubs that constitute the league. It has been decided to run two divisions, constituted as follows:— DIVISION I. Cardiff Thistles, Penarth Wednesdays. Cardiff Post-office, Barry Shop Assistants, Canton Institute, Oathays Wednesdays, Whartons, and Direct Trading Company (D.T.C.). DIVISION II. Thistle Reserves, Cardiff Ivy. Cogan Wed- nesdays. Splott Wednesdays, Pena.rth Thktles, Cado-xton. Juniors, Cardiff Clot-triers, a.nd Niay- poleans. A good fixture list has bien arranged, and liome capital matches are in store in the knock-out competition for the Wednesday League Cup (presented by Messrs Sugg). I have been asked my opinion as to the rule debarring Saturday players, with a request that I give it through tlie "FTootbaLl Express." I think, as there arc so many aspirants to the game anxious to ril-ay on Wednesdays, that ALL players who are playing legularly for clubs on Saturdays should be debarred from rlaying in Wednesday League matches. I mean by "all" players tbc«e who p 1 ay in any club tihot is in a league. The young man who is cooped in a shop all the week and gets out for a few hours' recreation, on Wednesday afternoons does not want to he opposed by a player who iplays for a good club on Saturdays, and who is practising every other migiht. Confine membership to purely Wednesday players, and there will be better fk/O'tibail, fairer results, and an all- round feeliing of satisfaction that every player showing any amclination for the game will 'be given- af eh anoe of playing opponents of ,his own calibre. The question, I under- stand, will be dealt with at tdie next general meeting on Wednesday next. The cup-tie dates are:-First round, January 26; second round, February 16; semi-final, March 9; final, April 13. Wednesday, September 29, is fixed for the kick-off for the oeason, when the following matches will take place:- DIVISION I. Canton Institute v. Cathays Wednesdays. Barry Shop Assistants v. Oardiff Post-office. Whartons v. Thistles. Direct Trading Co. v. Penarth Wednesdays. DIVI,SION II. Cadoxton Juniors v. Thistle Reserves. Cogan Wednesdays v. Cardiff Clothiers. Penarth Thistles v. Splott Wednesdays. Ivy v. Maypoleans.
NEWPORT'S RUGBY CAPTAIN I…
NEWPORT'S RUGBY CAPTAIN AND VICE-CAPTAIN. Newport has a new captain and vice-cap- tain for the ensuing season, and real good fellows they are. T. H. Vile, the captain, is a Newport boy, and was iborn in 1883. He was educated at Newport Intermediate School and Ports- mouth College. His debut was made with Newport Thirds eight years ago as a forward, but he is on the small and light side for the squash. Then he went to half-back, where he has played for Pill Harriers and for New- port First and Second teams. He is a won- derful little watch-dog at the heels of the forwards, and gets away with less than half a chance. "Tommy," as he is familiarly styled, is a partner with his brother in an aerated water manufactory. Mr. Vile toured with the British team in New Zealand and Australia under the captaincy of Mr. Bedell- Sivwright. He also played in the Welsh team as a partner to Percy Bush against EnglaradS at Bristol, and Scotland at Swansea in season 1907-8. Stanley H. Williams, the Newport vice- captain, comes from a good old sporting and athletic family. His father, the Rev. Basil Williams, Vicar of Risca, was a great athlete. Stanley is a. very popular man in the New- Port pank where he plays either at three- port rank*, full-back. He will mostly appear quarter or in the coming season as custodian. A lieu- tenant in the Territorial Artillery, he is 24 yea"rs of age, stands 6ft., and weighs 12st. 81b. He first played football for Rogerstone Association team, and got into the Newport Thirds Rugby team in the beginning of 1903, and played for the seconds at the latter end of .the same year. and the first fifteen in the latter end of 1904.
Baseball Notes. I
Baseball Notes. I [By BACK-STOP.") I Aa was expected after their giood start off, Grange eacily retained the championehip of the premier divi- sion, with PenYJan rii -tlp the points behind them, a.nd a point ahead of Newport, who occupied the position last year. In the second division Cardiff Bopeworks have g-oue -through the card without a reverie, and lead their nearest rivals—Grange LtberaJs -by half-a-dozen points. The decisbn of the associa- tion committer "t this week's meeting in awarding them the match agaillfit the Hewellites, gives pride of place in -the third -division to the Gasworkers, who have only sustained one do.at this season. Crangetown's Record. I The oha.mpions have again an exce-llpnt record. Twice they have tasted the Witters of defeat, Splott and fill Harriers gaining victories at home. Their highest score was 1J5, against Splott, and their lowest 23, against Splott. and also Pill Harriers. They have scored 1,978- runs, an average of 98 per innings, against 797 by their opponents, all average of 36- The batting averages are headed by w. Boon with 13.27, Percy Attley fol lowing with 10.23. v. Grange Temperance .Woa by innings and 52 runs. JJewport No match. v. RoaUi Conserv-atrivofc ..Won by innings and 44 runs. v. Canton Won by innings and 77 runs. v. Spiott. Won by innings and 78 runs. v. Penylan Won by innings and 28 runs. v. Newport .Won—seven men to bat. v. Ro?th Conservatives Won by im?i'??s and 4 runs. v. Pill Harriers I^ost by 14 rub-s. l'ill li?ri-ier  o n I I in emen to bat. v. Cantcn Won—nine men to bat. v.>plott Lost by 10 runs. v. Penylan .Won by innings and 23 runs. Averages. No. of Times tAver- inning3. not out. Runs. age. W. Boon. 13 2 146 13.27 P. Attley 7 3 62 10.23 G. Wall 15 1 ici 8.50 C. Spack-nan 15 J 95 7.75 H. Evans 15 2 98 7.54 )laplestone .00. 15 2 93 7.15 L.. Lewis 14 1 85 6.54 J. Heaven 15 3 53 4.41 V. Huzzpy. 14 2 47 3.92 A. Fish. 12 1 42 3.82 W. :Evans 10 — 34 3.40 F. Gale 12 24 2 Also batted— R. Rooerts 5 1 j: Pritchard 2 .1 18 J., Manning 1 — LEAGUE TABLES. DIVISION 1. P. W. L. D. Pts. GTangwtowa 13 11 20 22 Penylan 13 8 4 1 17 Newporti 12 8 4 0 16 Sptott 14 7 6 1 15 Pill Harriers 14 7 70 14 Canton 14 6 80 12 Roath Conservativea 14 5 10 DIVISION II. P. W. L. D. Pts. Bopeworks 13 13, 00 28 Grange Liberals 14 10 40 21) Grange Albions .15 9 40 18 Ba.rry I)i,triot 13 7 60 14 St. Saviour's 13 5 8 0 10 Channel Mills 11 4 70 8 N0.port 1.1 12 3 9 0.. 6 Roath Welsh 12 0 12 0.. 0 DIVISION III. P. W. L. D. Pta. Gaswor?g  15 12 1 0 24 He?eiiiteg 13 fl 1 20 P? W«t End 12 9 30 18 post-offim 14 7 70 14 Centrals 136 7 0 12 Pe-Raxth 14. 14 100 3 rpllitly 132 11 0.. 4 Barry Liberals. 12 1 11 0.. 2 DIVISION IV. SECTION A. P. W. L. D. Pte. Marions 12 12 00 24 Saitmead 12 10 2 0 20 Adults. 12 7 50 14 Grange Liberals II 12 5 70 10 Anchors. 12 4 8 0 8 Harlequins 12 2 10 0.. 4 Rumney. 12 2 10 0.. 4 SECTION B. P. W. L. D. P. W. L. D. Pts. Moorlands. 9 9 00 18 Docks Temperance A 10 7 3 ().. 14 M.ickmtodi. 8 6 20 12 (I,Lthay,s 10 2 8 0.. 4 Boath Liberals 9 1 8 0.. 2 Docks Temperance B 7 1 6 0.. 2
Llanhilleth's Promotion. I
Llanhilleth's Promotion. I Llanihilleth, last season's medalists in division three of the Monmouthshire Associa- tion league, have a good combination to do battle in the first division. Their promotion has spurred F. Powell (chairman) and the secretaries (Messrs. Sayer and Hughson) to get together some clever talent. With T. Jones in first-rate fettle, things are going to move in the senior division matches. The newco-mers include Newman (Swindon), out- side left-, King (outside right); Thomas (New- port Barbarians) centre tor ward; Woodland (Weiton Rovers); and Ernest Jones (Aber- dare)
[No title]
The Merthyr Northern Union Club have g?ven up the College Field,and will play during the coming reason on a piece of ground which they have acquired on lease I at Rhydycar. The site is that known ais the old Ktonyard, where during the 6trile of 1898 the miners played the part of atone-breakers. 'The ground has been splendidly done up iso as ;t» fit it for play, and, although, perhaps, not so favouraoly situated al5 the College Pic-ld, it easily accessible, whilst in regard to condition it, is incomparably Abetter. Northern Union foot-ball on the old venue was never seen to proper advantage by reason of the sioug-hinto. of the soil, but with a dry ground it will be -witnessed at its best. Practically all the stalwarts who played for the club last reason have been re-engaged, and among the new players signed on are:— Charles, -a Merthyr boy (iiociidale), ISoyse (Leeds), Thomas (Argoed), B-oberts (Earry), Biggs (Hull Rovers), Harrison (late of Cardiff), Palmer, Griffiths, F. Jones, D. Hughes, and Ned Rees (Mid-Rhondda). The club, who have been exempted from the qualifying round, are in for the Northern Union Cup, and will play againrst Treherbert and Ebbw Vale for the Welsh Cup. Tiley have fourteen home and away matches arranged with Lancashire and York- shire clubs, and altogether their prospects are of a more roseate hue than they have ever been since the start. The team will be captained by D. B. Davies, the only 'Welsh- man playing in Wales who has been awarded the Northern cap. The international match-England to be played at Rhydycar, probably in January, so that those who are devotees of the Northern Union, game have grand sport ahead.
I Mid-Rhondda's Loss.
I Mid-Rhondda's Loss. The supporters of the Northern Union Foot- ball club do not intend running a profes- sional team this season, their experiment in that direction proving a financial failure. As far as the game went, there were several interesting matches played, and the players were quickly mastering the code. ?.1?th ?.2'?f1 everything looked promising at the end of laist season for professional and Soccer clubs being run by the Mid-Rhondda Athletic Club, the committee have rented the grounds to Penygraig at a high price. This season, however. Penygraig are once more in form, and start with brighter pros- pects. They have a strong fixture-list and Plenty of players. T. Ponsford, who has been elected captain, is an excellent forward, and the youngsters who sihowed such fine form in the latter part of last season are available. | Again, Llwynypia United are not running a team this season, it_ being reported that the Partridge Ground, where they formerly played, is about to be taken over for build- ing purposes, and, no other field being avail- 1 able, the club has been disbanded.
W. L. MORGAN TO PLAY FOR CARDIFF…
W. L. MORGAN TO PLAY FOR CARDIFF I Conoerning the reference to W. L. Morgan in the article on the Cardiff prospects (writes II Pendj nag-on"), later information is to the effect that the Aberdare man will ceriamlv play .for Cardiff this eea-son. A week or so ago there was a distinctp Tospect of W. L. Morgan going to London, but he has sinoej altered his mind.
Air Rifle Notes. I
Air Rifle Notes. I I L13Y 13UILLIS IiYE."] I Throughout the various shooting districts of South Wales leagues and clubs are busy in their preparations for the coming season, and from reports to hand it promises to be the most successful in the history of Welsh air- rifle shooting. All last year's leagues are forming up, and in addition a new league aomes from rldgend-the. Licensed Victual- iers-Wt,ich has a-leo affiliated with the Welsh Association-—a very wise move on their part. The dates of the opening shoots have not been definitely settled in all the leagues, but m Cardiff the premier league has decided to commence on September 23, and the Licensed Victuallers and Cardiff Association hold their first matches early in October. This latter I date may be taken as seeing all the leagues in operation. The prospects, too, of the Welsh Air-rifle Association are very bright. Though serious shOQlting has been dead for the past three months, the Association has not been idle, I and much valuable work for the shoot has been done by the committee, and it is a pity that the one or two leagues which are out- side cannot see their way to affiliate and thus strengthen the Associations hands in their endeavours to ga-in further advantages in majiy ways for air-riflemen. Numerous reasons can be advanced why every club should become affiliated, but in some quarters the arguments advanced fall on deaf ears, the outsiders enjoying the present privileges of the affiliated members without any cost to their club. If, however, the Association are successful in the matters they have taken in h-and-and there is every reason to believe they will be—every club outside the Associa- tion will find itself either bound to affiliate or else denied the advantages offered to affiliated clubs. And this is as it should be. I have always contended since the advent of air-rifle leagues in South Wales that 'an Association is an absolute necessity if the .=port is to live and grow lustily. An Association in any branch of sport is a recognised official channel. Besides having the interest of every affiliated club and member at heart, and working for them in every possible way, it is the one medium through which the many disputes which constantly occur can be equitably settled. This latter point is moet important, especially to air-riflemen, among whom dis- putes frequently occur, and these, it has been proved, are never satisfactorily settled by a league committee, while in every case the doci-ion of the Aissociation has been promptly accepted by bolfh sides. And why is this? It is becaue the Association oommiUee are men who are not interested in either side, and judge the case on its merits, while a,t league committees each ??ide has its partisans, who judge the matter from one poin,t only, and when in a case like this there is rio higher tribunal to ap«peal to the decision has caused a rupture tha.t is not only very harmful to the club and league themselves, I but also to the sport. This is eminently a reason why all clubs should become affiliated to the parent I body; but there are many others. The matter of cheap fares to teams travelling l by train bias long been a source of worry 'and annoyance to air-riflemen. For some reason the local railway comp.aniies refuse, to extend the privilege of cheap fares to air- rifle clubs, and this is a questicl that is occupying the attention of the Associations a,t the present time. So far nothing den- illite has been the reeu-t of their labours, but I t hp.re is every hope of a successful issue to I them. A deputation from the Association, who also had the presence and help üf the Lord Mayor of Cardiff (Alderman Lewis Mor- gan) waited upon the local railway com- panies with a view of obtaining their offi- cial recognition of air-riflemen in the same way as members of miniature rifle associa- tions. The deputation was received with avery co,urtesy. and the railway officials were at one with the Lord Mayor when he said "that, as far a,s his knowledge went, air- riflemen were a most respectable h0rJ.y of men, and he did not see why any distinction should be drawn between them and members of miniature rifle associations." but they were unaMf to do anything until the matter, which would have their full recormnenda-tion, came before a meeting of tho Railway Clear- ing House on September 8. There the mat tel- lies for the present. If the Association are a boon will he obtaoned which will earn ne thanks of every club in the Associa- In conmection witih tbe, Association this geasion another advantage is open to its members, namely, a large championship competition. There is no use in disguising the faot that, definite the fact fhfct the indi- vidual clia.mpionsliip came to Wales, Welsh- men are very c'issati-sfted wi,tib t,he way in which the annual national shoot at Rirming- ham ie carried out. My readers wul remem- ber the trouble last year, and, though no enen dispute has been seem, yet t.he working of the arrangements call for improvement. Especially has this been, so with the Welsh- men. and to mv own knowledge there are many case., mh.i e. h call for explanation. The Welph associa'tionis, however, will now cater for their own members, and a championship competition., witih prize money cf at least jE50 will be offered. Definite details will be arranged at the next meeting of the Asso- ciation, and will be published in the Even- ing E-xr>re^s. CARDIFF AND DISTRICT LEAGUE. The Cardiff and District League commence I their season on September 23. A dozen clubs have so far joined, and it is ariticipated that another four new clubs will affiliate by next week. All last year's clubs are up, in- cluding the Atlas, Victorias, Duke of York, Alberts, Splott Conservatives, Tudors. Adelphi, and Engineers, while the old Cold- stream and New Park Liberals art3 again up after a season's rest, and a new club, the Workmen's Social, Caerphilly, are a.Iso mem- bers this season. The clubs are busy sign- ing on théir members, and next week I shall touch upon their prospects. A further meet- ing of tile league will be held at the Napier Hotel next Wednesday, when entrance to the league will be closed in preparation for the coimpiiing of the fixtures in time for the cppen- ing matches. CARDIFF VICTUALLERS' LEAGUE. Another successful seaao-n seems probable ¡ for the Cardiff 1 ioensed Victuallers' league. Mr. W. Burris is again chairman, aaid he has as his vice that fine old sport from Can- ton, J. Titoker. The popular Welsh interna- tional, Sid Nicholls. holds the Purse-strings, and there is a change in the secretaryship, W. Bibbing-s taking this post aDd having as his as:sist,arnt the late scribe, W, Watts. In addition to all last season's trophies another cup is promised the league, making five in all. Match shooting commences on October 4, and entrance to the league closes at a I meeting to he held on Wednesday next at the Bristol and South Wales Hotel. All matches this year have to be fired with the new Adder pellet. It is important to olubs
46.—CROSS CANNONS.
46.—CROSS CANNONS. By RISO LEVI (Copyright). Diagram 634 illustrates another cross- cannon position. Here there are three dif- ferent ways of scoring. The cross cannon may be made by a direct stroke aercts the table, or. as shown on the diagram, via the top cushion, or the cue ball may travel aerosa the table direct to the pocket. -Of course, the DIA-iiiAM o-—.1 ,Il;H.Hl ??r a crO5 i1:-o- Hoo. ?a? li liia. front Li e de ,W<ÜOll and 2in. fro the top cushion. Object white touch;ng tile sic cushion and Hjin. from the top cushion. Cue ba: 2in. from thoe centre pocket and on the line between the cunt re pockeis.
NEW PONTARDAWE PLAYERS.
NEW PONTARDAWE PLAYERS. Mr. Carey Davies, captain of the Pontar- dawe Association team, is very optimistic as to its prospects. Several good players have acme to the place since last season, and they have consented to afssist the team. "Aad we ailso hope to make a decided im- provement on labt season's gates," he added. to note t,hat all notices published in the "E-ve,ni,n- Express'' are official, and must be recognised as such. CARDIFF ASSOCIATION. At a meeting this week of the Cardiff Asso- Otation League it was decided that this season each team consist of ten men instead of twelve. Two divisions will be formed this year, and a club may enter two te,ams, one in each division. The entries close on Sep- tember 25, and a meeting of the committee will be held on September 27, when the fix- tures wiill be drawn up. 'Phe new secreta.ry is Mx. E. Tucker, 23, Cameron-street, Splott, Mr. Moseley, the late secretary, taking Mr. Tucker's place as treasurer. THE SPORTING ALBERTS. The Alberts are quite ready for the fray, and anticipate even a better season than lagt. They hope, in addition to retaining the Dewar Cup, to emulate the example of the Cardiff Vies., a,nd take all the most important trophies this season. Throughout the summer months the members have been kept in form by a series of monthly handi- cap spoon snoots, and some excellent returns were made. Altogether four competitions have been held, two. spoons being offered at each, and th<?e were won by Fred HiM, A. James J. Phillips, Alec. Crafter, Arthur Webb, Ted Edwards. T. W. Jones, and Charlie Mansihip. The highest winning score was 49 out of a possible 50, and the lowest 47. These returns give an idea of what teams will have to shoot against when they meet the sport- ing Alberts. Their leader this year is Fred Skinner, and he has as his vice Dick Sawyer. "Silence there, Bob!" MOIRA AIR RIFLE CLUB (Cardiff). une popular lloira Club, in t,he Cardiff Licensed Victuallers' League, have again got a good team together for the coming season. In addition to all the best of last year's members, they have a few very promising shots, and there is every prospect of the M s making it hot for the teams in the Bonifaces league. At the general meeting this week J. Frieze was elected skipper, and Sid Hazell vice. Messrs. J. Willcox and A Plummer will act as joint secretaries. With his usual generousity, Mr. Harry Prickett promised a. couple of gold medals for the best league averages.
Miniature Rifle Notes:
Miniature Rifle Notes: BY -22. Miniature rifle shooting in Wales had never brighter prospects than at the present. The yv ei*n Association year (1908-9), which haa just closed, has proved an "easy best on record in every way. The annual meeting of the Association on September 11 will be an important one, espe- cially as a new target will be proposed for adoption for winter league matches. The target is known as the "Ten-Bull" target. and, although the size of the card will be the same as in the pati;t, -there will be ten cartons (for one shot at each). Should the target be adopted, disputed shots in league matches will be things of the past. The target is very similar to the one designed last year and offered to the Welsh Association by Mr. Thomas Howells, the secretary of the Moun- tain Ash Constitutional Club. The Associa- tion, however, was forestalled in another quarter, by a company who patented a vtry similar target. Another new rule to be proposed at the annual meeting deals with the management of the Association. H i tho each affiliated league had two representatives on the execu- tive council. Owing to the rapid growth (in clubs and area) of the Association, and the consequent great increase in travelling expenses, it will be proposed that each league shall appoint only one representative, and that the annual meeting shall appoint three representative! on the council. Probably, judging by comments already expressed, the proposed rule will find favour with. the majority of clubs. The balance-sheet of the Welsh meeting at Maesteg has just been published, and forms interesting reading. The total income was £ 225, and the entry fen? reached the satisfac- tory sum of £ 90 18«. The prize-list amounted to jE142 16s. Id., and for the first time on record there was a credit balance, which reached the handsome figure of LZ,6 tte. Id. There were, however, debts left from the Welsh meetings at Pontypool (1907) and New- port (1908) of £ 19 5s. 3d., made up of the reswetive amounts—Pontypool, £ 14 19s. 3d,, and Newport, £ 4 lfz. These have now been cleared, and the Association owes a debt of gratitude to the Maesteg Club, and especially Messrs. D. J. Griffiths and E. W. Burnett, for their splendid efforts in connection with the 1909 meeting. Those who visited the Hay meeting a few days ago enjoyed a rare treat. The range was isituated amidst the pleasantest surround- ings, the weather was delightful, and the Hay Improvement Society and townspeople generally entertained the visitors royally. Undoubtedly, the surprise of the meeting was the easy defeat of Chepstow by Ogmore Vale in the final tie of the Summer League. Chepstow led at the first range, but here the Ogmorians had the misfortune to loire a. shot, Lewis firing a s'hot on the Chepstow target. At the 100 yards the Wyesiders went to pieces, and Ogmore wrested and main- tained the advantage from the first squad. The win was a highly-popular one. The international trophy—at present held by Wa-let~—will lie shot for next year at Belfast. The dates fixed (the week before Whit-sun) will make it extremely awkward for English and Welsh teams to attend the meeting. The. Irishmen, however, who were met by a number of Welshmen at Perth, are extremely desirous of seeing a Welsh team at Belfast. The Irish clubs have formed an Association on the same lines as the Welsh Association, and they have signified their readiness to enter into an agreement with the AVelshmen to shoot an international match eaoh year, in Ireland and Wales alter- nately, provided a Welsh team visits Ireland in 1910. The successes of Jack Lewis, of Cwmparc Kifle Club, at the Glamorgan County Meet- ing at Margam has attracted the attention of shooting men throughout the kingdom, and Droved the most effective reply that could be given to those who maintain that minia- ture rifle shoo-tmg is of no value as an aid to phooting with the Service rifle. A remarkable story has been told in shoot- ing circles of late, to the effect that no Welsb-nen were in,rt to fill th" places in the Brjt.ish team which .recently visited Paris on account of the Welshmen declining their places in the match Britain v. America at the beginning of the vear. The iXewnort Rifle Club to open the eeason intend holdintr a two dnvf;, competitive meet- ing thits 'month. I believe the dates provi- sionally fixed are September 23 and 25. and it is intended to hold competitions at 25 yards and 50 yard. with an aggregate for the two distances, and also a competition for air-xifif clubs
Air Rifle Notes. I
"annan is the stroke to iplay, and-it should be played via the 'top cushion, as there is more latitude ias regards the direction in which the cue ball muirt travel across the table -when the stroke is played this way than there is when the cue ball has to travel straight to the second object ball, after its contact with the side cushion. Mr. Levi's articles appear every Saturday in the Evenijig: Express." So. 1 of this ries appeared on Cctober 3.