South Wales Daily News

FOOTBALL. NOTES ON THE GAME. (BY OLD STAGER.") Those who know the Cardiff football crowd •on't require to be told that the Burton disaster as followed by much weeping and wailing and flashing of teeth. Not for the first time there were loud murmurings among the multitude. That is a mild way of puttftg it. For to tell the bare and naked truth, the multitude were cursedly wild, and signified the same in the usual manner. That is to say, they all with one accord began to denounce the committee who could suffer such things to be. Football committees, as a rule, are •low to move, but the Cardiff committee for once Removed the green from their eyes, and seriously discovered the situation. The result was seen in the altered and vastly improved play of the team 1 last Wednesday against the United Hospitals. After the really briiliant display of the metro- politans against the Medicos," Saturday's ttiatch with Gloucester, hitherto regarded as a dead snip for the representatives of the proud city," was looked forward to with more equanimity. One hears now of sundry Jubilee Jugginses laying two to one for big money against the Cardiffians in this encounter. An that I can lay ia that I was not fortunate enough to drop Across them, .although I searched diligently, indeed, the majority of people I interviewed on the subject were bent upon standing by the home side, and were prepared to do so at evens, which oniy goes to show once more that nothing suc- ceeds like success. Had Cardiff lost the Hospital match, or won by a narrow L-ad, their backers on Saturday would have been few indeed. Regarded from the standpoint of mere num- bers, the eate was the biggest yet recorded at the park since the seasan commenced. It reminded one of older and more glorious tinr.es to see the dense phalanx of spectators standing four deep round the ropes while the stands were literally groaning beneath ths weight of excited humanity fortunate enough to secure piaees thereon. It was Pretty evident, however, that hundreds of those present were not of a ciass willing or able to "spring" thenimbte tanner that entitles one to pass through the gate. A short cnt and a cheap one (provided no bones are broken) can be obtained by dropping over and walls and dodging the myrmidons of the -law specially eagageii to prevent the accomplishment of the feat. Despite the police, the said feat was brought off pretty frequently on Saturday, and therefore the actual takings, whatever they may have been, must altogether fail to allow of a correct; estimate of the number of sightseers round the ropss. But to come to the match. This started badly enough for Cardiff. Well, within the opening five minutes George, the Gloucester half, ran slick in from a point about 25 yards out, and although the try was not converted, quite sufficient had been done to throw a damper over the crowd. When a minute later Gloucester all but scored again, we felt worse than uneasy. A miss, however, is as good as a mile. Cardiff began to play up, the hopes of the multitude revived, and never have I witnessed a scene of greater nnthusiasm than when, not long before half-time, Pearson, getting the ball from Arthur (the latter having brought it long way), ran in and scored for the home side. The interval arrived with the scoring precisely level—a try each. How would Cardiff fair now ? Would they fall off as in the Brighouse match, or prove that the hiuts thrown out about training snd the warnings of the committee had had due effect. That was the question, and right well the team answered it. In the initial half the play had been as even as the score. Now the Cardlffians polled themselves together aud set about their opponents in rare styie. Over and over again they bad hard lines in not crossing the charmed line, but still Ibey kept on pegging away until D. W. Evans, breaking away from a line out just inside the visitors' 25 fta, gained a try which won the match, the only point scored thereafter being a minor, and that by the winners. The victory was in every respect well earned. Certainly it was achieved in a struggle of the keenest and most stubborn description. The game Was literally without a dull moment, both sides being evidently determined to do or die; With the pull in the weights, the visitors' forwards had at first a bit the best of it, but the Cardiff pack were clearly well-trained, and later on they sim- ply pushed the others all over the shop. Bat for the fact that the Gloucester halves were permit- ted, why it is had to say, to infringe the off-sider rule in the most flagrant fashion, I incline to the opinion that Cardiff's victory would have been much more decisive, for at half and three- quarters, as in the case of the forwards, they were undoubtedly superior to their opponents, so long as the latter cared to play the game. On Ingledew and Rosser Evans (at half) fell the brunt of the work behind, and they, proved them- selves a couple of veritable Spartans. Hampered by the off side playing twain opposed to them, the way they got the ball out behind was really marvellous, while their tackling was a treat. Arthur and Fred Jones in the centre at three- quarters were in fine form. Costatt-was unlucky in nearly always being driven into touch, but the other wing three-quarter, Pearsop, came off in unmistakeable style. His kicking and tackling first; rate, and if he only possessed a little taore pace he would be a treasure. 'Gus Lewis at full-back was not quite so good as in the Hospital Inr.tch, or when he first trained. With increased practice, however, he should develop into a re- liable man. I don't like to single out forwards, because they all worked darned well. Hughes, the Gloucester full back, was a tower of strength- to his sida, and repeatedly saved them. The halves, particularly George, ought to be severely cautioned about their off-side tactics. Brown, the crack three-quarter, failed to come and the others acquitted themselves only tolerably, being better at tackling than on the offensive. So the second encounter between Newport and Swansea has terminated in another draw. The result occasioned some surprise at Cardiff, where it was thought Swansea would most a esuredly win. notwithstanding tha warm lot got together by Newport. The game, I hear, was a very exritine one, Newport only getting level when but two minutes remained for play. Swansea put on a try in the first half (unconverted), but up to interval bad all the worst of the play, although Newport failed to score. In the second half Swansea had the advantage without doubt. They passed and ran in good and effective style, and penned their opponents in their quarters. Several times Whapham got clean over, but before he could ground down he was forced into touch in goal. Thereafter Meredith, by one of his noteworthy strong runs, crossed the Ejoal line, but knocksd the corner flag-post down, and Swansea were only accorded a touch in goal. Up to then the game lo oked like a victory for Swansea. But now one of the Newport men had to retire for about five minutes, and kthis caused a suspension of hostilities, which gave good breath- In time. After this Newport got their try, and made the game even. This temporary cessation nf play (my informant considers) abne saved Newport from defeat. They were winded, he Says, when the welcome rest arrived, but on reo starting had recovered. The theory is ingenious, but, to my mind, a little far-fetched. The Newport three-quarters, Gould, Webb, George Thomas, and Charlie Thomas played a splendid game, Gould, as usual, putting in a host of saving kicks whilst C. and G. Thomas tried hard to score by some neatly dodgy runs. Downe and H. P. Phillips at half-back fed the three-quarters well and gave them plenty of work to do. E. and D. James for Swansea were seen at their best. E. James, who got the try, made some very effective runs. Gwynn and Bishop were always on the alert and had plenty to do to watch the Newport three-quarters, who were a dangerous combination. Bancroft was safe at full back, and once pre- vented George Thomas from scoring a try. Meredith, C. Williams, W. Bowen, and Samuel were the pick of the Swansea forwards, who Played a rare good game, and saved the match, as the Newport three-quarters were superior to the home three-quarters. The crowd acted very unfairly to the referee, groaning and hissing him without the slightest justifiable cause. Unless the spectators improve in this respect, Swansea will gain a notoriety not enviable. Probably McCutcheon will play at three- quarter-back foe Swansea against Cardiff on Saturday next. The match with Penarth was csrtainly one of the most exciting witnessed on Neath grounds this season. Both teams ware apparently in fine fettle, and prepared to do their level best. In the nrst half Penarth were frequently compelled to act on the defensive, and although every tactic v ^new was Put fortb» they had all their work cut out to stop the giand rushes of the home forwards. Bat for the really brilliant play ° ar, who was always on the alert, the proM ihty is that the game would have had a di»erent result. In the second half Penarth, evidently put on their mettle by their repeated failures to score. played with a determination and pluck which was really marvellous. They were so far success- ful that Neath had rather a warm time in pre- venting them from crossing the line. The tackling of the Nath men, however, was simply superb, and every effort on the part of their oppononts was checkmated. The home team also showed better form in the open, and altogether played a "Most praiseworthy game. LJ. Morris at full back did good service forbis side, whilst Broskham really surpassed himself with his timely kicks. J. E. Jones's excellent collaring was the means of preventing Garret from scoring. At half-back A. Cross played a splendid game. whilst the for- wards were evenly matched. D. Jones, Michael, and Pegge. for Neath, were ever on the ball." For the visitors Garret was far and away the J^t, and but for his grand play his team would have fared badly. Next to him came Rowles and **»dley> who gave able assistance to their skipper, frorgan, the full back, failed to prevent one or of the rashes. The scrums frequently gave rise to great amusement, and there were numerous appeals to t the referee, once when aPeuarth man was making at headlong speed for the home goal, a player ex- j ciaimed very excitedly, "The whistles went, let him go, let him go expression which gave rise to considerable merriment. Another success for Mertbyr. The revived j team gave the Aberdarians a complete beating at Penydarren-park on Thursday, not, however, j without resolute opposition on the part of the j defeated. Among the visitors one of the most j noticeable players was Jim James, while for Merthyr, Dewdney played a good game. It was a little unfortunate that the gallant ceptain of j the Mertbyr team did not convert either of the three tries obtained. I Since the revival of the club at Mertbyr, there t hia been nothing but victory all along the line. • Under these circumstances, the match which is to r bA played on Thursday between Merthyr and the t University College is looked forward to with k undoubted interest. In view of this event, would it be too much to suggest that steps be taken by the Merthyrians to secure the best possible position in the park for the game, and to make; sin endeavour to level some of the depressed patches in the field ? If the trees, which are a great nuisance to footballers, could be avoided, so 1 much the better. Dear Old Stager (writes a correspondent),- Will you oblige by inserting the following in your columns on Monday :—After the grand manner in which Cardiff beat Gloucester on Saturday last » 1 should like to suggest to the committee that ) that team should be played all through the season, and I feel sure, after playing together for a few matcheol it would be equal to any we have i ever had. We all know just about Christmas time we shall have Biggs and Swoet-Escott, but, j after the display of Saturday last, it would be a j pity to throw out any of the team for these players, who will be here for a few weeks only, providing they all (i.e., our present team) keep up to the form they are now showing. Of course when A. F. Hill returns his place must be found, but, with this exception, and, perhaps, the full back. let Saturday's team be the Cardiff team, and I feel sure that at the end of the season every football enthusiast of Cardiff will be perfectly satisfied at the result.—I am, &c,, FAIRPLAY. The following letter from an old friend will be read with interest. I need scarcely say that my remarks in last Monday's notes were not in any way intended to reflect adversely upon Lewis. Indeed, I was not aware that the club possessed so good a man as I well know Lewis to be. No doubt, as Mr Cooke says. the difficulty is thnfc the men won't train. Wo shall probably find matters improve in that respect for the future. Dear Old Stager,—Although much flattered by your complimentary allusion 9) my abilities as a trainer in your Notes of last Monday, 1 think you (perhaps un. consciously) allowed it to be inferred by your readers that Lewis, the present trainer of tha Cardiff football team. does not understand his business, and is, in fact, incapable of infllsing stamina, into the men of whom ho has charge. This is an injustice. I have known George Lewis for many years, and was, I believe, the first to "take him in iiand." During the time he was actively engaged wit,h me, he displayed a very complete knowledge of the duties of a trainer and conscientiously performed them. In one season, I may mention, he trained as many as forty prize- winners, and he on one occasion had under his charne Snook, the late amateur champion from one mile up to twenty. Some of the fastest runners Wales has produced have been looked after by George, and I can confidently assure you thao his treatment has always given satisfaction, The real diffi- culty in training Cardiif football men is that they won't turn up to train. They come to the park irregularly in twos and three one evening in the week, and it has never fallen to Lewis's lot to have the complete team out. If the players have not enough ardonr in the game to attend regularly to practice, it is impossible to do anything satisfactory with them. Given favourable conditions, and Georga l.e'A is can do ai much for the Cardiff team as any man I know, not barring myself or Sammy Hughes, of Birmingham. Trusting you will in justice insert this letter in your next football notes, and thanking you in anticipation.—I am, Ac., TOM COOKE. Blue Anchor, Wuarton-street, Nov. 16, 1839.

SATURDAY'S LOCAL MATCHES CARDIFF HARLEQUINS V. PENYGRAIG. Played on the ground of the latter on Saturday. There was a large number of persona present, and the weather was very favourable. The following were the teams POSITIONS. HARLEQUINS. PENYGRAIG. Back (J, L. May G. Llewellyn Three-quarter..D. Thomas M. W. Rees (capt.) Three-quarter..W. H. Keepitigs ..D. T. Lloyd Tliree-qti,,trter..F. P,. Nicholls C. Eyan-i Three-quarter..J. Keepings T.Jones Half-back .R. A. Price Walter Phillips Half-back S. Waters T. Morgan Forward .1. S. Culleii.D. H. Lewis Forward ,.H. J. Taylor T. Atkins Forward J. O'Brien R. John Forward ,.H. Roderick W. Prosser Forward _.D. James T. Thomas Forward.E. A. Hybart.. 'J. Roes i Forward J. P. Spurting .John Lewis Forward „F. Buse A. N. Other i u. Lewis, <v. L. Davies, W. A. Jones, Macknes3, and ( Emery could not play. I Referee, Mr B. S. Richards, Swansea. | The Harlequins Iricked off, and after the return | kicks Ellis headed a grand rush into the visitors 25. I Tho Harlequins were granted a free kick, and gained a S little ground, but Lloyd was immediately afterwards 1] granted a free kicr., the result being that the Harle- ii quins rushed the ball into the Penygraig 25. Then a j scrimmage took place, and the leather was kicked into I touch. The play then came in to the mirldle of the field. 3 One of the Harlequins took the ball close to the goal I Tine, where a good deal of excitement occurred, iiut 3 Lloyd relieved amidst great cheers with a timely kick. J Penygraig played excellently, and forced the oval into the centre. The visitors made a rush, but Llewellyn frustrated it, and, after smart play between IOvans and Rees, the ball WHS sent into touch in the Harlequins' ground. Then some capital passing took place, and the oval was driven to tbe Harlequins' touch line, but the 'Quins relieved admirably. After some rushes and tackling along tho touch line, the oval was sent flying across the field, and the Panygraig territory was in- vaded. The Quins were subsequently granted a free kick in the home 25, and attempted a goal, but John charged down. A furious rush took place, and a inaiii followed, and the Quius gained a try. The kick at goal failed. Play was afterwards doubt- ful, the oval being thrown from one side to the other.- The Quins invaded the Penygraig ground, but Morgans relieved with a kick in the proper time, and Evans was granted a free kick for offside nlav. Some exciting rushes followed, and the Cardiffians exacted a minor. The play was for some time afterwards fast and exciting, and in favour of the home team. Rees headed a brilliant dribble close to the visitors' line, which was closely besieged. Furious rushes followed and some good passing occurred, and an exciting dribble by the Penygraig forwards sent the oval to their touchline. After a capital run, which elicited loud cheers, the Cardiffians scored a try close to the posts, which was not con- vertedi Half-time was then called with the score :— HARLEQUINS 2 tries, 1 minor. PENIGRAIG nil. 1 Resuming play. the home team kicked off, and the game was open in the centre. After an exciting dribble J. C. Evans made a splendid run into the visitors' 25. Play was then very even, apparently without advan- tage to either side, but the 'Quins rushed admirably into the home 25, and were driven back forcibly to the centre. Almost immediately Turner got off nicely, hut was grassed by D. Lloyd. Some exceed- ingly animatell play then ensued, and the ball was rushed to the goal posts. W. I" Keepings, having the ball, was brought down by Llewellyn, and Penygraig had to touch down in self-detence. Kllis, after a kick c ut, succeeded in bringing the ball into touch in the centre. Rees made an excellent run to within a yard of the goal-line, and was cheered immensely. Subse- aueutly the Quins relieved splendidly, and the oval was sent across the Penygraig line, and a maul ensued, resulting in a minor for the 'Quins. A series of scrimmages occurred near the centre. Kllis and Prosser having headed a good dribble, the home team obtained a minor. After a kick-out and some excellent passing, the Penygraig goal-line was closely pressed, but F. Jones relieved with a splendid kick to the centre. For off-side play the home team was granted a free kick. Andrew Price subsequently did some magnificent work for the Harlequins hy frustrating some of the rushes. The Cardirtians had for a short time after the best of i t, The kicking of Nicholls and Keepings was of great service. It was now getting dusk. M. Rees ditin. guished himself by a. tricky run into the opponents' quarters, but the visitors relieved by a capital rush, and were granted a free kick right opposite the home teams' goal. The attempt at goal failed, and left the 'Quins the winuers o £ a well-contested inatcb, the score being I CARDIFF HARLEQUINS.? tries, 2 minors. PENYGHAIG 2 minors. GLOUCESTER v CARDIFF. Fine weather favoured the first meeting for the season of these old rivals at the Cardiff Arms Park on Saturday, and thera was a tremendous assemblage of spectators. Both teams were strongly repre- sentative, Jarman being the most notable absentee from thit of Cardiff. Owing to the late arrival of the visitors the start was delayed till 3 30. Gloucester then kicked off from the racquet curt end. and a j-criuunase was at once formed near the Cardiff 25. Smith, getting off, passed to another three -quarter, who was splendidly brought down in the nick of time by Rosser Evans. Mahoney beaded a dribble out, bat Gloucester returned to the attack, and George, getting possession, ran in near tho posts. The place kick, however, failed. Even play followed the kick-out. George got off, pass- ing out to the wing when near the line, but no score came, though the home 25 was occupied. A Gloucester half now got ribt to the line, where he was pulled over by Cosslett. Cardiff then worked out, and Fred Jones, picking up, run to the centre. Here he passed to Arthur, who was floored, but W. K. Williams and Aforgangained more ground. Cosslett was net conspicuous for a plucky run. Charley Arthur then ran across the ground, ami passing to Pearson on the line, the latter ran in amidst cheers. The attempt to convert was abortive. Fast and even play ensued. Fred Jones at length got off, passed to Arthur, who transferred to Cosslett, The latter was pushed Into touch in the Gloucester 25, and after the line-out the ball was taken close ill, the scrimmage being formed in front of the Gloucester goal. The visitors' forwards carried it out to the centre. The borothers Allen dribbled beautifully back, and Cosslett, attempt- ing to get off, was pushed into touch in the visitors' 25. Ward subsequently ran to the centre, where I Charley Arthur brought him down. Sid, Nicholls, comiug through a scrimmage, gained some ground, and Mahoney and Rosser Evans carried the ball still further 011. The visitors recovering, Fred Jones got a mark, sending the ball in touch near their 25. After the line- out Healing dribbled up to Cardiff territory, but Fred Jones bringing off a similar feat WAS not stopped till well past the half flag. George passing to Bagwell, the latter got back to the centre. Hereabouts the visitors got a free kick, the outcome of which was to let them into Cardiff territory. A big kick, to which Gus Lewis failed to reply, next brought about an invasion of the home 25, but the siege was soon raised, ) Pearson and others dribbling out. Rosser Evans followed with a kick, which Hughes replie(Ito. but the home men soon drove the ball out to the centre. Another failure from Gus Lewis to get in a reply to a kick caused their 25 to again hold the combatants. Ingledew this time relieved with a short run. The ball getting into scrimmage in the home 26, W. E. O. Williams dribbled out to the centre. Here the Cardiff backs, attempting the passing game, could make no headway, and Gloucester forced the fight to the ground inter vening between the Cardiff 25 flag and half-diatance. Ingledew brought off a short run, but was pushed in touch. At the line out Cardiff broke away, and W. E. O. Williams, pic&ing up, passed to Rosser, who brought off a fine run, passing when near the visitors' 25 to Cosslett, who was promptly nailed. HALF-TIME SCORE- CARDIFF} 1 try. GI OUCESTEB. 1 try. On i-esuming operations D. W. Evans set the ball in motion with a long kick, which Hughes did not effectually Teturn, the ball dropping only a little (liet"ce from the Gloucester 25 il-g. By dint of good footwork the visiting forwards re- lioi ea. and a smart sprint by Ball transferred opera tionii to Cardiff quartess, where a close contest was wagel for 110me time. F. N. Jones missed a well. intended pass from Rosser, and the ball was sent into I touch near the Cardiff 25. After the throw-out several serimmazes occurred, in which, however, the home men asserted their full power, and succeeded [ through their dexterity in sweeping the oval to the centre, where a. dribble was essayed, in which Nicholls, Williams, and the brothers j Allen were very prominent. A long kick-a sad mis. take—caused the leather to fa'.l into the hands of Hughes, the visitors' full back, who was tackled by Mahony before he could respond. Amid great excite- ment the scene was changed, principally thanks to the exertions of Cromwell, Healing, and Collins into the vicinity of the home goal. Ingle- I dew here collared Bagwell in fine style, ati-I ) the ball falling out of the latter player's hands, Mahony, who throughout played a sterling game, took it before him to the centre. A fierce fight was here witnessed, Gloucester attacking in their old familiar way, but their onslaught w.is met by a stubborn defence of the bold Blue and Biack lads. Rosser Evans getting hold from a line-out made off smartly aiul was not tackled until he had stumbled, when he lost the hall, but Cosslett was in close attendance on him, and managed to carry it to near the Gloucester lines. Several tight scrums now occurred, but the invaders had this time determined to stay, and more than heid their own in the loose play. Some extremely pretty bits of passing were next exhibited between the home backs, but in spite of this they were unable to cross the charmed Rubicon. From a line-out D. W. Evans secured, and going through a bunch of the Gloucester men, he lauded a try in a rather good position. The smaie player tried to negotiate, but the attempt at goal was a miser- able failure. Good dribbling, in which Crom- well, Witcomb, and C. Williams on the one side, and Mahony, Williams, Nicholls, and Allen oil the other, were very prominen t, then became the order of the d.,i)-, the ball occi atincr between the Gloucester 2b and their goal line. Following an uuusually brilliant dribble by the Cardiff forwards, the ball was sent over the line, and C. Arthur, the home skipper, compelled Hughes to concede a minor. Even play succeeded the drop out, but still in favour of the home lads, who played with the courage of the Spartans ot old. Raid ufter raid was made upon the visitors' citadel, which was closely invested for several minutes. W. V. Morgan drove the leather to the line, but lost what looked like a certain try by slipping. Momen- tary relief was brought to Gloucester by a long kick by Hughes, smartly followed up by his colleagues, but the homesters again quickiy assumed an aggressive attitude through a good sprint of Iiigiedew's, whose progress was arrested by Hughes. No other poiut was scored. FINAL SCORE FINAL SCORE CARDIFF 2 tries, 1 minor GLOUCESTER 1 try The teams were as follow ;— POSITIONS. CARDIFF. GLOUCESTER. Back Gus i.ewis Hughes Three-quarter..W. Cosslett Ward Three-quarter..C. S, Arthur (capt.)Bagwell Tiiree-quarter..F. N. Jones Healing 'l'hree.qnl1.rter.. W. Pearson. C. E. O. Brown Half-back Rosser Evaus George Half-back _H. M. Ingledew Ball Forwa.rd .S. H. Nicholls .Cromwell Irorw,trd 1). IV. Evans Itepling Forward W. E. O,Williams.,Collins Forward J. Mahoney .J. Williams Forward V. Allen. C. Williams Forwa-,d Alleil Witc,,mb Forward ,.„W. T. Morgan .J tJukills Forward .R. Thomas H. Brovn I Referee. Mr L. C. Thomas, Merthyr. CHEPSTOW v. NEWPORT 2ND. A match between these teams was pia ved at New- port on Saturday, The following were the players:— POSITIONS. CHEPSTOW. NEWPORT. Back S. Rosser J. Morgan Three quarter.. A. Lewis Jewett Three-quarter..A. W. Lewis Dauncey Three-quarter..J. Curtiss li. Gould Three-quarter 1). W. iont's H. Boucher Half-back G. W. Itickards E. Lancaster Half-back T. U. Pitrnall J. Parfitt. Forward G. Waters B. Dowle (capt.) Forward E. Jones F. W. Fothergill Forward H. Cotlrell W. Evans Forward S. Keys C. A. Long Forward .A. Keys .J. Needham Forward H. Lewis W. Wiles Forward R. Davies F. Dunu Forward E. Arnold H. Biggs The home side kicked off, and the reply falling short, a scrimmage took place in the visitors' ground. The ball was carried into the Newport territory, but a smart run by one of the home lads changed the posi- tion of affairs. The Chepstow men played up. and carried hostilities into the Newport ground, but some long kicks, to which the Chepstow back tailed to reply, resulted in play being confined for some time in the,visitors' territory. Ultimately the home team pressed and compelled 1 heir opponents to touch down in defence. The kick out brought no relief, the Newport lads continuing to press. The ball was passed to Jewett, who made a splendid shot for goal, which just failed, and the;visitors again touched down. During the next few minutes the Ch- pstow men were pressad, but their good defence prevented their opponents from scoring. Some long kicks by the backs brought relief, and the leather was carried to Newport territory. Some good passing by Newport backs, in which Dauncey was conspicuous, again took hostilities to the Chepstow 2.). By com- bined action the "reds'" reversed the play, and com- pelled the home side to touch down. The kick-out resulted in hostilities being taken to Chep- stow ground. The leather" was then taken by combined play on the part of Chepstow to Newport ground, but only for a brief space some long kicks between the backs ensued, the space some long kicks between the backs ensued, the advantage from which lay with the home side. t'rom a pass Jewett made a second shot at goal, which also failed, the visitors touching down, and at half-time no material point had been scored, N EWPORT 3 minors. CHEPSTOW I minor. After the caange of ends Chepstow men played up well for a time. Jewett, by a magnificent run, carried the leather to within a few yards of the line, where he was collared. Newport were, however, not to be denied, Needham taking a pass ran in and scored a try. Parfield converted. After the kick out, Newport again became dangerous, aud confined the leather to Chepstow ground, and shortly after compelled tbem to touch down, and al- most immediately after compelled iheiu to repeat that performance. Following the kick out the leather was carried to half way. Newport forwards, however, soon took it back to its old position. Soon after the Chepstow backs played up in fine style and, for the tir-t time, became really dangerous, and for some time they succeeded in penning their opponents. Ultimately ore of the Newport backs, by a run over nearly half the field, brought relief. The Newport men then played up in fine style and com- pelle(I their opponents to touch down twice in quick succession. And shortly afterwards the Chepstow men failing to reply to a long kick, the ball was dribbled over the line, and onn of the forwards fell on the ball and scored the try Jewett took the place, which failed. Shortly after F. W. Fothergill again crossed the line and again scored. The place by Jewett again failed. After the kick-out Dowle repeated the trick by scoring the fourth try, which Parfitt goaled. The whistle sounded soon after, leaving the home side the victors, the score being :— NEwrORT.. 2 goals, 2 tries, 7 minors. CHEPSTOW. 1 minor. NEWPORT v. SWANSEA. A splendidly-contested match took place at the St. Helen's Ground ml Saturday between the above teams, which ended in a draw, each side scoring a try. Nearly 8,000 people witnessed the match, and immense enthlEhsm prevailed. Swansea had nor, sustained a reverse this season, and it wau feared Newport would break the record. The weather wan admirably suited for football. At 3.25 the teams entered the field. Bancroft started the ball for the home 15 from the pavilion end, and at once the forwards set to work and formed tight scrums. Swanspa. gained round, and the oval was left in touch about six yards from th visitors' 25. After the line-out the backs exchanged kicks. No man's ground was the scene of the contest for a few minutes, and then D. James skirted the Newport forwards, and got well ahead into their 25. By dint of some excellent loose play, Newport worked gradually nearer and nearer to the home citadel, and thereafter made a strong attack on the goal. George Thomas sent the ball over, and Swansea had to touch down. Two minutes after the kick-out Newport notched another minor. For a short time Newport looked like scoring, and Swansea had to act oil the defensive against repeated attacks by Gould George, and Charlie Thomas. Bancroft tackled well. Newcombe got possession, and only just missed drop- ping a goal by a few inches. Swansea put forth a supreme effort, and relieved their lines. Central territory was now the scene of operations From a throw in, Whap. ham made a very indifferent kick, and lost grouud. Gould, taking advantage, landed ths ball into touch in the Swansea ground. Q Williams literally forced his way througli the opposing forwards, and prevented the threatened attack on the goal. Newport would not be denied, and Percy Pnillips and Gould made strenuous efforts to score, and several times got uncommonly near the go.,tl- line. Newport continued to play a hard, aggressive game tor some time, but the defence" was too good to admit of scoring. The home forwards kept the ball in scrimmage, and had the better of the tight packs. At last K. James dribbled out, and raised the siege not at all too soon. The forwards settled down to scrums. The Newport halves fed the three-quarters in good style, aud Goult. made a praiseworthy shot for goal. For some minutes the game was contested in neutral ground, till the Swansea men came off with some very effective passing and running, in which D. James, Meredith, and W. Bowsn were conspicuous. Newport were somewhat taken by surprise, and failed to checl. the advance until the oval was lett in thoir 25. fwan- sea now showed to much advantage in the tight scrim- mages, using their feet effectively. Webb, getting the ball from a scrum, sought to get away, but Bishop was on the alert and tackled him. Scrums and lines-cut by the half-way post consumed some time. George Thomas made his mark too far from the goal posts to gain much advantage, and D. Gwynn gave a good reply. Swansea now pulled themselves together and rushed ahead. Newport had to fall back rapidly and defend their quarters against repeated attacks, reo newed again and again, At last the home team were rewarded for their efforts, PA E. James ran over and scored a try in a rather favourable position amidst immense cheering, which subsided when the place kick resulted in a poster. Swansea now led by a trv. After the kick out the home team lost ground by a little indifferent passing. A couple of free kicks ou either side followed. D, Gwynn, by a long drop, landed the leather near the visitors' quarters Cbarlie Thomas then ran and kicked over the home goal. Bancroft in ample time touched down, and half-time was called with the score reading :— SWANSEA. Itry. N EWPORT 4 minors. Swansea being oniy a. try to the good left the game in a very interesting state, and at once both sides played up with much spirit. A long kick left the ball in the home quarters, where some fast and loose play took place, but Swansea relieved in good stylo. Gould kicked in, and Bancroft had his kick charged down, This allowed Newport to make an incursion into the home 25. Tight packs were formed, and the backs watched eagerly for the ball. James passed to Gwynn, who ni,,de off, cknd W Bowen followed with a capital sprint, removing all danger, amidst cheers. Swansea continued to make rapid progress until Webb and Gouid got the ball between them, and cleverly worked it back. Newport soon had to play a hard defensive g Die. Swansea seemed determined to score, and could nor, be forced back into neutral ground. Whapham crossed out, and was in the act of grounding down when, to the chagrin of the spectators, he was forced into touch in goal. No sooner was the ball set rolling than Swan- sea, who appeared in rare condition, were again seen attacking the Newport goaL Meredith essayed to cross over, but had to run into touch a few yards from the goal liie. After the line out the came became very exciting. Newport failed to remove the pressure. At this juncture Meredith got possession and ploughed through his opponents, knocked tho corner flagpost down, and scored what appeared to be a try. The referee, however, had no alternative but to give a touch in goal, a decision which was received with loud groans and hisses, iiiostly from the irrepressible boy i partisans. Subsequently the forwards of both sides had play to themselves in about the centra of the tield. Wh",n the packs were broken up Newport came down with a swoop, which was stopped by Bishop adroitly turning the ball into touch. Tho same player afterwards passed to Gwynn, who landed the oval into the vi8itors' 25. Swansea exhibited some wild passing, which allowed their opponents t,) gafn grouud. A couple of free kicks were awarded, and thereafter the Swansea ups rushed ahead, and mada an incursion into their opponents' ground. The contest was now waged fiercely in the Newport territory. D. Gwynn gave a corkscrew punt into touch not many yards from the Newport line. Alter the line out, Swansea made great efforts to score. Bhhop kicked over, and Eugland touched down, which brought rdief. The ball after this got frequently into touch, and the for- wards made the match monotonous by keeping the oval in scrimmage. When they were broken up, Bishop checked a rush when looking dangerous, By similar tactics Swansea gained ground. Gould, for once, failed to handle the ball, which allowed Swansea to act on the aggressive. The home team, for the last time, tried their best to score, and Newport rushed into tho open. The ball was rushed into close proximity to the home goal line, a.nd two minutes to the call of time Newport scored a try in a favourable position. Amidst dead silence the ball was placed for the kick. If successful, Newport would win other. wise, a draw would be the result; and, to the evident delight of the Swansea admirers, the ball fell short of the cross-bar Final score :— NEWPORT 1 try and 4 minors. SWANSEA I try anci 3 niinors. POSITIONS. NEWPORT. SWANSEA. Back T. England W, Bancroft Three.qu}rter.. A..T. (iouid D. Gwynn Three-quarter,.J. E. Webb E. Bishop Three-quarter,.Geo. Thomas .Pearce Threerfliiai'ter..Charlie Thomas Whapham Ilalf-baTck Downe.E. James I I; t I f.b,*k .H. P. Phillips D. James Forward T C. Graham (capt.). W. Bowen (capt.) Forwasd J. Hannen Meredith Forwatyi .A. W. Boucher Ciurles Forward T. H. Griffiths H. A. Bowen Forward T. Newcomb T. Williams Forward, T. Day. W. Williams Forward T. Ed wards Dd. Davies Forward E. J. Williams. Samuel ,Referee Mr W. Wilkins, Llanelly. I ij PENARTH v. NEATH. Penarth met Neath at Neath in the presenca of a faiv, number of spectators, both teams playin in PENARTH v. NEATH. Penarth met Neath at Neath in the presence of a faivmimber of spectators, both teams playing in great spirit. The advantage during the first half, if any, was in favour of Neath. Score at half-time :— NEATH 1 touch-down. £ ENARTH nil. Tho "play during the second half was of a most excitiiig nature, and for fully ten minutes the home I team were penned on their goal line, and Penarth made some desperate efforts to get over. The Neath defence was. however, exceedingly good, their tackling being really admirable. A kick by Broskham eventually relieved the pressure, but once more the Penarth men 'lv(' played an aggressive game, and carried the play to within an ace of the Neath goal line. Garrett made some grand runs, but the defence of the Neath men was sogood that he coullt not break through. The pressure was once, wore relieved. Play during the last few minutes was in Penarth ground. The visitors had very hard lines in not scoring and played with great dash throughout. The game was the most exciting played 'this season. FINAL SCORE. NEATH 1 minor. PENARTH Nil. The teams were POSITIONS. NEATH. PENARTH. Back Ll. Morris. H. E. Morgan Three.quarter..G. D. Trick R. Garrett (capt.) Three-quarter..Broskham ,Rowles Three.quarter.. Tom Morris Spear Three-quarter..J. E. Jones ftadley Half-back W. Thomas Lambert Half-back A. Cros Hutchings Forward .Dr K V. Peggo (capt.) A. Mears Forward R. Jones .A. Williams Forward 1). Jones .1'. Garrett Forward J. Davies P. O'Brien Forward .II.Evans (i. Brown Forward S. Anthony J. Mahoney Forward J. Michael J. Wright Forward D. W. Lewis J. Matthews Referee-Mr Hemming, Bridgend. RRIDGISND v. ABERAVON. This match, which excited grea.t interest in Aberavon district, came off on Saturday on the ground of the latter and in the presence of a large concourse of spectators. Play throughout was interesting and even. In the firsthaif Aberavon kicked off up bill, and scored a goal, a try, and a minor to a minor. In the second half Bridgend played a better game and scored a try and two minors. Emery, Vivian, Elwes, Gregory, AuttOn, Harries, Griffiths, B jwen, Hendra, and Edwards shone conspicuously for their respective sides. Abeavon wen by 1 goal, 1 try, and 2 minors to 1 try and 2 minors. LLANELLY v. LAMPETER. This match was to have been played on the Stradey Park, Llanelly, on Saturday, but, owing to Lampeter bein" itwahle to fulfil their engagement, the match was not o'ayed. A game was then arranged between the 1st XV. and the A" Team, but as several of the first failed to put in an appearance, a game of sides was indulged in,the respective teams Heing captained by W. Thomas and It. Harry. After a good display Thoma.s's team won by 1 goal and 2 tries to nil. The tries were obtained by E. J. Roberts (2) and D. Howell. Mr C. S. Anthony acted as referee. WIDNES V. MAINDEE. The Monmouthshire Cup-holders journeyed to Widnes on Saturday, where they sustained a crush- ing defeat at the hands of the home team to the tune ot 3 goals, 3 tries, and 3 minors to 1 try, 1 minor. ST. DAVID'S Y. CARDIFF ,TARS. match between these teams was played in the Sophia Gardens on Satvrday before a fair assemblage ot spectators, and in ideal football weather. An excellent game ended in a win.!or St. David's by 3 tries, 3 minors, against 1 try, 1 minor scored by the "tar)-. 1.LDAFF Y. TAFFS WELL.—This match was brought off at Llaudaff on Saturday be- fore a fair number spectators. They did not commence until past four o'clock, consequently part of tne game was played in semi-darkness. Tho visitors, who seemed to possess very elementary knowledge of the rule. of the game, played vigorously in the first half and prevented any score by the citizens. The second half wa.. rathei more exciting. Davies secured from a scrimmage, and passed to Hancock, who sprinted grandly behiud the post. Harris con- verted. Taff's Well then brought off a good rush, and one of their forwards scored, but the place-kick failed. Llandaff then hotly besieged the villagers' goal, and Shorn" Davis, dodging through a crowd, scored behind the posts, but Harris faileit at the place. Final score Llaudaff, 1 goal, 1 try, 3 minors Taff's Weil, 1 try. Llandaff team—Back, H. E. Harris; three- quarter back', Hancock, W. Asplin, Spereor, A. T Thomas half backs, J. Davies, J. Elliot; foiwards, Tom Harry (captain), T. liavies, T. Goodfellow, Colley, E. J. Cross, J. Jackson, Mcisenzie, D. tone. BRECON TOWN V. CHRIST COLLEGE, BRECON.— Played in the cricket field in summer-like weither. W. E. Thomas (captain) got the first try for Brecon, which was converted by J. F. Davies. Another minor having bee'1 added to the Brecon score, lemon time was reached. Play being resumed, Howell Itees Williams, t.y a splendid sprint, placed the oval behind the posts for the College. NVillimin Jame, converted. Afterwards a very -interesting game ended. When time was called the score were Brecon, 1 goal, 2 trios, 4 minors College, 1 goal, 1 minor. Referee, Mr E. Piosser umpires, Mr Ailen (Christ College) and Mr G. Hyatt Williams (Town.) CARDIFF UNITED 1ST V. TYNESIDE.—Played at Sophia Gardens Field, resulting in a win for "Cardiff United by 4 triss and 6 minors to 2 minors. A. Lloyd and S. Hicks scored a try each, and Gitto Griffiths scored two tries. LITTLE STARS V. KENT-STREET ROVEP.S.-Playe(I at Grangetown. Score:-Star, 1 goal, 2 tries; Rovers, nil. IIEP STiCIt JUNIORS V. BRIGHTON RANGERS.—The I Rangers won by 4 goals, 2 tries, and 2 minors to a try and a minor. nOATII STAR v, AEAMSDOWN ROVERS.—This match wa, played at Sophia Gardens, and ended in a win for the Itoath Star by 1 goal, 1 try, and 5 minors to 1 try and 4 minors. CARDIFF RANGERS V. SILVER. STAR.-Payed at the Sophia Gardens, and resulted hi a victory for the Hungers by 1 goal (dropped), 1 try, and 3 minors, to 4 minor. BKLGRAVE JUNIORS V. MOUNTSTUART-SQUAKE 2ND —This match was played at Sophia Gardens, and re- sulted in a win for Belgrave by 3 goals aud 3 tries to 1 try andK minors. For the winners the tries were made by A. Walters, S. Herford, T. A. Howell, ami F. Young. The goals were dropped by W. Rees and A. Hutching". ST JOHNS Citoin V. BLue AiNciion.-Playe(i at Sophia. Gardens, rosulting in a win for St John's by 1 goal and 1 try to 1 minor. E. Attwell and J. Davies piaved very well indeed. MACHEN GREYS v. BED WAS ROVERS.—Played at Bedwas, resulting in a draw, %)(-.i)r(3 :-I:\cl1en Greys, 2 tries and 2 minors Beawns Rovers. 2 tries. ISASTSIDK HARRIERS V. KILVEV A TEAM — Played at Swansea, the score being—Harriers, I dropped goal (disputed) and 2 minors Kilvey, 1 try. GRANGE ROVERS v, GRANGE JUN]ORS.-PllyeLl on the ground of the former, and resulted as follows:- Grange Juniors, 1.goal. 2 tries, and 1 disputed try to 1 dropped goal and 2 tries. HARLEQUINS A TEAM V. PENYGRAIG 2ND.—This match was played at Grangetown, and resulted in a win for thu Harlequins by 2 tries to 1 try. O. Lewis and J. Jones scored for the Harlequins. The home backs were superior. The home team were rather overweighted forward. PONTARDAWF, RAMBLERS v. RHYDYFRO 1ST.—Played at Pontardawe. The former won by 1 goal, 2 tries, 3 minors to nil. PONTNEWYDD v. ABERTILLERY. A match took place here between Pontnewydd 1st team and Abtr- tillery 1st team, resulting in a victory for the home team. The score was as follows Abertillery, 1 goal, 1 try. 6 minors Pontnewydd, nil. WHITCHURCH JUNIORS V. NANTGAAW.riiis match was played at Whitchurch, and resulted in an easy victory for the home team by 7 goals, 3 tries, 2 minors to nil. MARITIME (PONTYPRIDD) "A" v. TON RANGERS.— Played at Pontypridd, and resulted in a will for the home team by 1 goal and 4 minors to 1 try. MOUNTAIN ASH 2ND V. MISKIN UNITED.—Played at Mountain Ash on Saturday, and ended in a win for Mountain Ash by 1 goil, 3 tries, and 2 minors to 1 try and 1 minor. MELINGRIFFITH V. RADVR ROVERS.—Played at Radyr, and, after a fast game, ended in a victory for the visitors by 2 tria<, 3 minors to 1 try, 2 minors. CATHAYS STARS 2ND V. STAR JUNIORS.—This match was played at the recreation ground. Cathays, and ended in an easy victory for the Cathays Stars by 3 goals,'2 tries, 8 minors, to 2 minors. CADOXTON "A" TEAM V. DINAS POWIS.—This match was played at Dinas Powis, and resulted in a victory for Cadoxton by 4 tries, 4 minors to 5 minors. Boys, Davies, lling, and Bowman played well for the winners, THOMASTOWN HARLEQUINS V MERTHYR HIGH SCHOOL AND MR HOWELL'S SCHOOL, CEFN (UNITED).— This match was played a Ctftn football ground before a fair number of spectator*. After a very Dleasant game, the Harlequins won bv 2 goals, 1 try to 1 goal. Boys' BRIGADE V. BRYN JUNfOr.S.-Playe(i at Swan- sea. The former won by b goals, 5 tries, 4 minors to 3 minors. I.ONGCROSS JUNIORS V. ROATH WINDSORS:-Playel on Saturday. Score— Longcross Juniors, 2 tries and 3 minors Roath Windsors, 2 minors. Clubs please note change ot secretary, E. Thomas, 24, Galston-street. Roath, who will be glad to arrange matches with junior teams. ABERDARE v. DOWLAIS,-Playe(I at Aberdare on Saturday. ltcsult-Aberdare, 1 goxl and 4 minors; Dowlais, 1 minor. CLEVELAND V. GOWERTON RAMBLERS.—Played at Gowerton, and ended in a draw in favour of the latter. whose score was 5 minors to nil. ST. ALBANS (SWANSEA) V. SEA SIDE ROVERS (LLANFLLY).-Playe(I at Swansea. Score—St. Aiban's, I goal (converted) and b minors to I try and 4 minors. ELY ROVERS v, CADOXTON AND BARRY.—Played at Cadoxton, and resulted in a win for, the Rovers by I converted goal, 1 t,ry, and 6 minors to Cadoxton's 1 converted goal and 1 minor. Crawley and Staddon secured the tries, Lang converting. Ely were minus several of their usual men. CATHAYS STAR V. COGAN.—Played at Cathays, and ended in a draw in favour of Cathays by 1 try 4 minors to 1 try 3 minor-i. PONTYMISTER v, PONTYPOOL, -Played at Pontymis- ter, resulting in a win for the home team by 3goals and 1 try to nil. PENTRE V. CAKDIKP KAKGERS -Plaved at Pentre, resulting in a win for the home team 'by 2 tries and 5 millnr to 1 minor. PONTYCLOWN V. TREFGREST.— This match was played at Pontyclown, and ended in a win for Ponty- down by 1 goal to 1 try. Traforest walked off the field owing to a dispute as to off side. AMMANFORD 1ST XV. v. EIGHTEEN OF THE DISTRICT. -Played at Ammanford, and resulted in a draw. Score 1 goal 2 tries each. LLANDAFF YARD JUNIORS V. MAINDY JUNIORS.— Played on the ground of the former, and ended in a win for thti Llandaff Yard by 2 goals (one dropped), 2 tries, and 3 minors to 1. minor. CATHAYS RANGERS V. MACKINTOSH ROVERS.—Played at Bartacks Field, resulting in a win for the Rangers by 3 goals and 4 tries to nil. 1 CARDIGAN TAR V. GUANGETOWN RED ROSE.— Plaved at Sophia Gardens, resulting in a win for Car- digan iitar by 7 goals and 13 tries to 3 goals and 4 tries. GA I TREDEGARVILLE V. LONGCROSS—Played at the Field, resulting in a win for Tredegarville by 1 try to nil. The try was scored by Miles after a grand rush by tbv Tredegarville forwards. BLtJ STARS V. ROATH ROVERS.-PI.,tyel at the East Moors, and resulted as follows :—Stars. 1 try, 7 minor*, to 1 try, 1 minor. CARDIFF UNITED A V. CANTON 2ND XV.—Played at Sophia Gardeus, resulting in a win for Cardiff United by 1 goal, I try to nil. The tries were obtained by Bagshaw and W. Davies. Shackell converted. ST PETEU'S V. TREDEGARVILLE A TFAN.-Played at the Barracks Field apd ended in a victory for the St. Peter's by 2 goals, 8 tries, 6 minors to nil. The tries were scored by D. Dwyer (4), T. Sexton (2), F. Nelson 2), and Reuben and Driscoll 1 each. CAR "In CRITERION V. PENARTH VICTORIA — Playediat Penarth, and ended ina-draw in favour of the Criterion by 4 minors to 1. GRAFTOE ttED ROSE V. ALPINE RANGERS,-Playe(I at East Moors, and resulted in a. win for the Red Rose by 2 triadand 4 minors to I minor. ADAMSDOWN RGVERS. CAPTAINS TEAM V. VICE- CAPTAIN S TEAM.—Played at East Moors, and ended in a win for the Captain's team by 2 trios to 1 try. CATHAYS STAR A V. STAR JUNTOBS.—Played at the Sophia Gardens, resulting in a win for Ca.hays by 4 tries to 3 tries 1 minor. The tries were got by Bowen (3), Wickham, and Cox. Glossop was the pick of the Juniors. CLYDE OVERS V. PONTYMISTER,—Played at the East Moors, amI erded in a win for the Pontymister by 4 minors to 2 minors. LLANDAFF JUNIORS v. BELGRAVE.—Played at Llan- dnff, and ended in a will for the Junior by 1 goal, 1 try, and 3 minors to 1 minor.- The try-getters were N. Body (captain) and p, Vükes. CANTON ROVERS V, ELY STARS,-Pbyo>ù at Ely, amI ended in a win for Canton by oS goal. 5 tries, and <1 minors to nil. I.LANDAFF 2ND V. SPLOTT HOVERS.-At Llandaff, anti rp.suited in a draw by 8 minors to a disputed try and 2 Illinois. Splott had hard lines in not scoring 011 two occasiol1. COGAN 2ND V. CANTON HE» ROSK.— Played at Cogan, and resulted III a win for the home team by 2 goals (I dropped} and 5 tries and 7 minors to nil. Tries got by W, Davies (2), Watkins, J. Reynolds, W. II. Venn, J. Thomas. Rowles dropped the goal, Sains- bury converted the other.

ENGLISH RUGBY MATCHES. OXFORD UNIVERSITY V. BL.lCKHE.\TH,-Play"ù onthe Merton College Grounds. At h'11f.time the game stood-B:ackheatl1, 1 goal (dropped by Hubb3.rd) to nothin¡t. The play at the outset was Tery even, bitt the Oxford forwards played remarkably well, and Blackheath soon had to adopt defensive tactics. Hubbard, dowevur, got away with a splendirt run, and before the danger could be averted, he dropped a goal. On changing ends each oal was in turn endangered, anù Oxtora comoelled the visitors to touch down. Play was mainly êontinèd to ille forwards, and proved uf a high order, but; no tangible point was ¡¡.inod, an(1 .Blackheatl1 won a gr:J.n(llY-;Jl1testej game by a dropped goal to ni1. CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY V. RIÇID1OD.-P¡a.yed at Cambridge before large rntstcr of spectators. After twelve minutes' even pby Fitch scored for tile lilw hill failed with the p1ace kick. For several minutes the game reminetl in neutral grouud, 3nd, after some interchanges by the backs. tin game was carried into the Varsity territory but up to half-time nothing more wa-s scored, .-corn at half-tim*> *—Cambridge, X try Richmond, nothing. After crossing over tbe game cantiuued very ciose, being conJiocd principally to thc forwl\rd.<, and nothing was scored until anont, two minutes before the caB of til"1e, when Fitch secured, nd, amidst great a!>plaue, got in right between the posts, Howhill converting it into It lusijor point. Finally Cambridge won by a goal and try to nothing. MORLEY v. 2 trie. 2 minors Modey, 1 try, 1 miuor. Played at Batley before 4,000 spectators. A more exciting and even all1tj it would be impossiùle to witness. In the first; liu 11 E. Austin scored ¡¡,fter a I5J.1lendi(1 dribh:e by the. visiting forwards. Soon aiLer the change of ends, :holes /ot over, Bedford íailin to (onvert. Squires also seored for Batley. The visitors played 14 lIIen, Austin baring to retire immediately after tùe kick oil. NORTHUMBERLAND v. YORKSHIRE.-Phyed at New. castle in spltmdid weather. Play was fast ami even, but Yorkshire pased better, although tile homo for- wards ware rather smarter ill the loase, llickson scored under the bar, and It goal resulted, just before half-time. Mnson an Scott got over, but Gill just missed. Score: Yorkshire, .1 oI, 1 try, to I try. In the second half the visitors played vigorously. Hickson made a nice run nmllJ. try was scored. Two minutes later Lowrio got over, but the kick failed both times. Firth scored again after a pretty run, but the kick Wit" unsuccessful. The homo men played hcird, and frequently got near the goal, but the passing beir.g defective thy were unable to scme. ïorkllIre won by 11);0301, 4 tries, 2 minurs to 1 try, 1 minor MIDDLESEX WANDERERS v. KENSINGTON.—Result Wanderers, 3 goals Kensington, 1 try. Played at Richmond. The Wanderers III the first half scored a goal from a try by 11 ooper. In Ow second half the Wanderers obtained two more goals, Primal droppin one, alid Cavelldt:kinf!: tbe other frOUl a try by Aster. llate scored a try for Kensington. LONDON SCOTTISH V. CurifAM ROVERS.- Result: Scottish, 2 goals, 1 try Rover.s, nil, Played at Rich- mond. The Rogers, as was expected, had tbe worst of the play, but (lefenùe,1. well. and their forwards startsd several good rushes. The t-;cottisl1 scored a goal p1aced by Ogiivie, from a free kick amI. a try by Henderson. Afterwards tho Rovers nearly held their own, but Oailvie kicked a splendid goai from a try by Anderson, tbe winning by 6 points to lIone. OLD LE1-SUNS v. -3AIFORo.-P¡ared at West Ken- sington. In tbe firt ti, minutes the Lt\yslans scored, hut almost directly afterwards Salford equalised matters. The LeYllians flain attacked, and after SQme sharp play gained a second try. The remainder of the tirst half was greatly in favour of the Leysians. who led at half-time by 2 tries anà 3 minors to 1 try and 1 minor. Sometime after resuming, the Leysiau3 bad the be.st of tile plILY, but Salforil at length attacked and ob- tained a try, making the ame eVcn, The finish was excitiug, but as neither side scored ain the match cnriell ill a draw, the "cür belll two tries eadl. LEEDS PARISH CHURCH V. UNDERLANI>Played at Leeii-. Score Leeds P.:1.tih Church, 2 goals. 1 try, 3 minors Sunderland, 1 goal, .1 minor. A very ood game. Bell kicked It sVIild.1t1 goal from a penalty kick. For the Church Dickenson, J.umley, and Watson scoi ell tries, amI Broarlbent placed two goals. Turner, Oddy, Picldes, amI Clayton ahio played wun, as tld BeJ1 and Crow for Sunderland. ^VINTON V. MANCHESTER FREE WANDERERS.— Final reult :-Swi:¡ton, '1 goals, 1 try, anil 4 minors Wanderers, 1 minor. played at Swinton. winton kicked off, and at once forced the game. In tile first few minutes they secure.1 a try, which Uall converted into a oal. Valentine got another try, whicll Hall made :1. s-cond OQI. Score at half. time :-SwinLOII, 2 goals and;) minors; Free Wanderers, 1 minor. EDINBURGH ACADEMICALS V. ROYAL HIGH SCHOOL. -Hesult Academicals, 1 oal, 2 tries, to nil. Tue Academicals played a winning g1.:o all litronI1, and some splendid parsing was shown by their backs. Glendeniung Iot a line try, which McKwan improved. The other points were got by good play on behali of Livinston and DUnC!lI1. IJADIFAX V. MOSSLEY.—Score Halifax, 2 goals, 13 minors Motley, 1 try. Ashworth scored, after agood run, for Mossley. No glial Tesulted, In the second half 1\lillar placed a try for Halifax. Scholefield kicked 11 grand goal. Halifax had aU the bes of tile play. Afterward East scoreù again, and Scholefiehl pla-C8tt another goal. The latter only just missed dropping another, aud missed a "ery ea-y try. RUNCORN V. HUUDERS¡"ŒLD, Played at Runcorn. Final roaul,-ltuncolD, 1 Oftl, 2 hies, 5 minors Hud- dersfield. 1 try, 2 Ii\inor. Th visit of ille Yorkshire men to Cheshire caused It large crowd to assemble 3.t Ituncorn. Runcorn scarted th;) game, and soon Oavies eot ill easily, Brassendale kicking a goal. Afterwards H. Hughes scord(I, a feat which he repeated after- wards. Kye got a Iry for Huddersfield. From this to the cloe Runcorn h ut considerably tbe bast of the gamo. T)EW8I»URY V. NEXT TWJ1:TY.-H.esult-Fifteen, 1 goal, <1 tries, 2 minors Twenty, 1 coal, 2 tries, 2 minors. Thi scratch matcll was arraned on account of'the !:I1¡sne¡¡sion of Heckmonnwike, who were down to playagainst J)ew3umy. Tho Twenty played up re- markably well in the first half, but their seniors lasted out bett and ultimately won, BIRKENHEAD PARK V. l\IANCIŒSTER,-P1ayed at Bit"- kenhead. Final result Birkenhead, 1 goal, 1 try, 3 minors .Ma.nchester, 2 tries, 2 minors. Birkenhead itall much the best of the opening play,in which Jardine for them scored th first try. Nicholson kicked a grand goll.1. Afterwards Paterson gained a point for Man, chester, 110 goal resulting. After resuming Craven gained a tine try, ùut still failure attended the phce- ltick. Thh VMR the last point gained. LIVERPOOL OLj) BOYS v. BROUGIITON RANGERS.- Played at Liverpool. Result-Old Boys, 1 goal, 1 minor; Rangers, 1 try, 2 minors. Leggo obtained the try for the Boys, and Chapman kicked the goal. Soma rough play ensued, aud then RolJiusoll got o rOt. for the Rangers, but no goal resulted. The passing of hoth sides wa the feature of tho game. LIVERPOOL V. NEW BRIGHTON.-Final result I.iverpoul, 1 try N6W lldghtoll, nil, Played at ],iverpooL Liverpool had the best of tbe opening play. and were several times within an ace of s.orinl{. Jioberts crossod tbe New Brighton line, A. G. Milly failing at goal. At half-time Liverpool had 2 tries to nil. The second half was evenly contested, but 110 furtlJar points were scored, Liverpool winuing a good game, CUMBERLAND V. WEST MORELAND.— Played at 1illom. Tue Cumberland men had much the best of toe game fron1 the start, the visitors being on tbe defensive nearly the whole of the time. The C'1mber- hud back, ConÏtl¡a,rd, awl Hodgkinson played grandly; the same remark applies to the forwards. A combined rush by Houston anti Holmes resulted in the latter getting over, but the try was not converted. Jn the second half tries were obtained by Coulthard, Isaacs. Moore, and Holmes. The Westmoreland were never in it (rom first to Jast. For Cumberland Coul. thard, Murchie, Moore, Oldford, find Ilodgkinson dis- tinguished themselves greatly,bat Moore's idace-kick- ing was very erratic. cuwbedand won by 4 tries an(1 <1 minor. to nil. HARLEQUINS V. MARLBOROUGH NOl\IADS.-Pi!lyel at Chlswiek. die Harlequins winning hy 4 goals, 1 try, o 1 try. The game was tast throughout, but until three minutcs of half-time 110 score was made, whell Hill got a try by a speedy run. The place 1dc¡ failed. The Harlequins played magnificently after the change of ends, scorin no less than 4 goals, 1 try, af whièh Chilcott gained two. WEST OF SCOTLAND V. EDINBURGH UNIVIRSITY.- Result: West..3 tries; University, nil. Played at Partick. The spurted at the start, but 11;00t1 defence and weight bore them baek. Just before half- time Neilsoll/1:ot a try for the West. In the second half the home tea\1l hatl all the play, Mathieson run nil1 in twice. Tbe were fairly beaten at all points. WIGAN r. WARRINGTON.—Played at Warrington, W igan won by a goal to nil. ROCHDALE v, HULL -Played at Rochdale, who won bv 2 Hie" to 1. MANNINGIIAM v. C.STLEFonD.-Played on tbe ronw. <> £ the latter, thoir opponents winning hy a goal and a try, to a uy.

MERTHYR WATERWORKS APPEAL. Oa Saturday, Mr Gwilym James, clerk to tbe Merthyr Local Board of Health, attended with Mr Josiah Tóoma, Bri8tol, aud Mr Harvey, Rurvoyor, bf!fore the assessment committee of tbe Marthyr Uuion in support of the adjourned appeal for a reduction of tbe present aSlleKsment of the Mertbyt-\Vaterworks lying within tha union boundary. l\1r H. Rhys defended.—Mr Gwilym James intimated thaI; when the com- Imttee had met previously, Lhey had before them the report of their valuer, Mr Fennrick, who advised them tbat. the water rents received by the local board did ao £ represcnt the value of the water supplied to the district, and did not there- fore form a proper basis for estimatiD the rate- able value of tbe undertaking, inasmuch aB tbe local board could make up any deficiency out of the mte to be levied in aid, or by contributions out of the general districc mte. Mr Fenwick could not accept l\'Ir.J ()8iah Thomas's valuation of the gross revenue at £ 5,775, and stated tbat in consequence of the Wlt1 in wlllch the accounts of the board had been kept, there had been a tranllfer from tbe general district rate to tbn water account, and this transfer must be taken into account. Mr Fen- wick placed tbe gross income at £ 8,424, and the rateable \alu at £ 3,031. Mr James proceeded to point out to the committee that, altuough in his report Mr Fenwick stated the defici61"Y coul1 be made up by a ratA in aid or contribution out of a eneral district rata, no sectioc of tb" Act of Par- liament had beea roferred to by Mr Fenwick, and he asked what carse he had lo meBt.-Mr F. T. James, clerk to t6e assessment committee, pointed out that Sections 61, 62, 63, 64, and 71 of the special act for Alorthyr water supply gave the Merthyr Board power to levy rates, &;c. —Mr Gwilym Jam^s then reviewed the provi- sions of the several t>\Øctions, and argued that the pwer9 of borrowing under the special act were inserted for the protection of tbe lenders of money, and had DO application to levymg, a special rate. Tbe representati V68 lof the Board of Hea1tb havine; retired, a short diRcussiou took place.- The Ohairman said he tUiought it would be far better to grant a case.-Tbe point to be decided, remarked the clerk, was simply whether the amount the board drew fro.tn the general district l'ate to supplement the wat sr rents was assessable or not.-Mr James was cajled in. and it was decided that a CMe should be stated, witb 8 consent of tbe Board of He¡alth, for the opinion of the Queen's Bench DivislVJn of the High Ooort of Justice. It may be added that immediate "teps are likely to be taken to bring tbe m.* beforo the court.

MR ALFRED 1'HOMAS AND, THE POOR LAWS. At the close of the hUmD61!1I of tbe Mertb" Board of Guardians 00 Saturday, the committee which was appointed to consider Ahe question! affecting poor law aàm:oi8trl.\otion which had been sent to the board by Mr Alfred Thomas, M.P., held a sitting, under tha presidency of the Itev Aaron Davies. Replies were drawn up seriatim, and the document will ba submitted fo* approval to the guardians next Saturday.

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