Evening Express

THE BEGINNINGS OF BASEBALL IN SOUTH WALES. I I NEWPORT TEAM, WHICH WON THE SOUTH WALES BASEBALL CHALLENGE SHIELD, SEASON 1891. TOP ROW: A. Ferris (umpire), B. Daviee, A. Da vies, E. Edmonds, J. Richardson, and C. R. Jlanwe (hon. secretary). MIDDLE ROW: W. Morgan, A. Kendall, F. Qha-ve (captain), and F. Waite. BOTTOM ROW: J. Vaughan, R. Parsons, and T. England.

1 I t FOOTBALL BOOK. A HANDY FOOTBALL BOOK. I The "Western Mail" Annual. I Nothing is more useful to the South Wales football en k,thuslast-of either code-tham the Western Mail" Football Annual, and this fact is strikingly demonstrated by the manner in which the footbauers, bible," as it has been dubbed, is welcomed ea.t"h foot- ball seaam. This year's book eclipses aJl its pre- decessors in every respect, and a brilliant feature of it is. the otever contribution by l,']?epcy Bush, who in a humorous, but at the same time serious, article explains how those ugly rushes too frequent on the foot- ball field ought to be stopped and how they ought not to be stopped. It is one of Mr. Bush's best efforts, and this alone is well worth the price dtarged for the book (Id.). The other features include the lavra of both oodeB, fixtures of nearly 100 olubs, pro- fessional and transfer laws, &0. Readers should seoore a copy immediately in order to avoid disappnriatment, for what is more useful than such a book to turn up for reference during the season, when number- less arguments ape fought out between foot- 1 baE enumstaflte, whiah, by simply referring to the Western Vtaa., Etoot&all Annual, looWd be tattied at oom P

I A VETERAN BOWLER. I TOM SHERMAN. I Several leading members of the Surrey I Cricket CSub have promised to take part in the match which is to be played a.t M it ch ain on September 19 for the benefit of Tom j Sherman, the old Surrey fast bowler. Born I. [Photo, Halftones. in 1825 {tihe yc?r of the :fire at Lord's), Tom has seen many changes in the wos)r ,,T.:? cnc?€< He played his first match in 1MO, and, dte his youth, accounted for seten wickets.

A CHAMPION BOWLS PLAYER. Mr. Morris Edwards, of Grangetown. The winner of the Grangetown Bowling Club tournament is Mr. Morris Edwards, the wee-captain of: the club, who defeated such clever bowlers as Messrs. Wjlliam Phillips, eapttain (21—6), T. Gough (21-1(i) and J. Bat- stone (21—7), thus proving himself to be a fine, consistent bowler. MT. Edwards has always been very keen on bowls, and is one of the two public green players who did so well at the Ddnas Ptowis (Welsh Bowling Association) Tournament, where he made a very stubborn fight against Mr. Coles (tihe i nternationaJ), who only managed to defeat him by a very small margin in the third round. He learnt all hie bowling on the Grangetown public green.

GLAMORGAN AVERAGES. (Including the Phi-ladelphi aris, Wiltshire, &nd the Oxford Harlequins). BATTING. No.of Buns Not B'gbøt inns. scrd. out. score. Avge. N..V.,H. iohes 19 ..728.. 3.. 126.. 45. 8 N.. T. A. L. Whittington. 15 597 0.. 188 39.12 Bancroft 21 655 1 157 32.15 i N 36h 19 275 2 44.. 16. 3 A. E. Freethy .).. 32.. 1.. 15 16 H. G; Symouds 15 217 1 38 15. 7 Backer 6 72.. 1.. 32 14. 2 J. H. Brain 3:. 43.. 0 Z6 14. 1 A. Gibson 6 193 1 45 12.13 Creb&r 18.. 94 ..11 20* 10. 4 30.. 1 20 10 19.. 172.. 1 .30.. 9.10 For the South Wales Eleven v. the PhifeuJelpbians Silverlock (Mon.) scored 125 runs; E. S. Phillips and N. C. Phillips (Mon.) also played in this match. W. H. Brain and Stapleton v. Wiltshire; H. B. Letcher and the Hon. A. W. Clive v. the Oxford Harlequins. •Indicates not out. BOWLING. Overs. M'dns. Buns. Witts. Avge. CMber 525.4 132 1356 110 12.36 NA-sh 468.5 16.3 1121 77 14.4.3 Preedy 149.5.. 30.. 474.. 31 15. 9 H. G. Symonds 6 0 26 1 26 Hacker 23 4 84 3 28 Creber bowled 5 no-balls, Nash 15 wides, and JPreedy 2 no-balls and 2 wides. MIlfOB COUNTIES' CHAMPIONSHIP. BATTING. No-of Buna Not H'ghst imn& scnl- out. score. A vge. T. A. L. Whdttington. 13 575 0 188 44. 3 N. V. H. Riches 15 397 2 114 30. 7 Bancroft 17 486 1 157 30. 6 E. R. Sweet-Eecott 8 162 0 20. 2 Greece .< 8 140 1.. 73 20 A. GlIbeOn 13 182 1 45 15. Z Nash 15 209 1.. 44.. 14.13 H. G. Symonds. 13 176 1 U 14. 8 Crober .14.. 75 8.. 20..12.3 G. L. Ralttenbury 4 49.. 0.. 26 12. 1 Hacker 5.. 46.. 1 32 10. 6 Preedy 15 137 1 30 9.11 H. Thomas 4 Z8.. 0 25.. 7 P. Morris 7.. 26.. 0.. 13.. 6.5 Also playedH. B. Letcher, 3 innmgfl, 29 runs; Sergeant Thomas, 3 innings, 24 runs. The following have played two innings, viz.:—j. H. Brain, M; E. W. Jones, 36. Also played:-G' E. Cording, W. Spiller, J. Bancroft, Hon. A. W. Clive, A. E. Freethy, and B. H. Johnston. BOWLING. Overs. M'dns. Buns. Wkts. Avge. P. Morrb ;) 0.. 5.. 1.. 5 Crebor 388.4 104 1011.. 79 12.63 Preedy 130.5.. 2& 392 29 13.1ft Nash 346.1 127.. P02.. 63 15. 7 G. L. Battenbmy.. 38 8 105.. 5.. 21 Hacker. 12 2.. 34 1 34 Creter bowled 5 wides, Preedy 2 no-balls and 1 wide, and Nash U no-balls.

CHAMPIONS V. ENGLAND. l The Engi.and Eleven against Yorkshire a.t the Oval on Monday will be:-P. F. Warnm- (eacReAn), B. J. T. Bosanquet. Hayward, Hobbe, Tyldesiey, Tarrant, J. Humphries, Field. A. E. Belf, and two others. Barnes has been aaked to play. but no reply has yet been received from him. Four days are ailotted tp the match.

Business-Like Kick-Off. IMPORTANT CUP RULES TO BE NOTED. Iiaat Saturday's football easily held its own, and, I am inclined to think, beat its own records, in the hripkness and serious- ness of (the season's opening. Experience has generally led one to expect matches to begin about the second or third Saturday. This time practically all the leading clubs were engaged in a preliminary trial of strength, one with another, and the football edition was prepared ito give a good show to their doings. But the late starts, advantageous as they are from a club financial matter, seriously handicapped our good friends the reporters. Barry District opened the programme in very promising style, and the club's supporters look like getting plenty of pleasurable excitement by way of recom- pense for their exertion in climbing the big slope to the Biittral's. Last year, it will be remembered, Barry created more or less a sensation by a remarkable series of home victories, and this, doubtless, would be re-called to the minds of the spectators last Saturday by the. fine win over Kings wood Rovers. Barry District evidently meant to show that, its application to join the Western league should not be disgraced by its per- formances. Well, a good start is a great deal, and if it can be sustained, no one will begrudge success to one of the oldest olubs in South Wales. Owmparc, too, went off with a ra.re bang, ,and the players and committee pitne in for plenty of congratulations. Siucih success, if kept up, will be a very valuable asset for the big Derby day w-hfn Ton Pentre will be met—some time next month, I understand. But with Ebbw Vale one must have frympathy, for the 'VaMans have struggled gamely aigainat the competition of the Northern Union Code, and one would wish thart, after their season of hard circum- stances, fortune may again smile upon them. It is only a cousple or so of years ago that Ðbbw Vale was one of the strongest combinations in South Wales. The friendly encounter with Staple Hill proved so satisfactory that the numerous followers of Treharris are antioiipajting with every confidence another firsrt-olaes season for their club. Good men have re/placed the stars who are missing from last season. To-day's fixture is with Barry District, and the latter's fine win, already referred to, will give added zest to the encounter. Judging from the two scores both clubs will be strong in the attacking depa.rtm.ent, a feature which most spectators, whether they admit it or not, certainly do appreciate. Last year Mardy surprised many by their success in the beginning of the season against AberdaTe, and now again against the same famous dub, the Khondda players gave a very praiseworthy and promising exhibition. The rise in status of the three senior Eihandda clubs was one of the features of last season, and no one will wish that firm to be maintained more than the other drubs who have them. on their fixture- lists. It is not good for competitions to be foregone so fair as winners are concerned—a.n axiom which requiTes mo proof. Profiting by his exerience while secretary of Ton Pentre last year, w'hen Barry Dock Albion proved sruch favourites with the enthusiastic Bhondda spectators, Mr. Mantle has wisely given them a fixture with the newly-formed Merthyr Olub. There is no reason to suppose that the Albiona will be any the less attractive this year, and they should provide an interesting friendly game before the serious league ma4?obes thg= themtelves forward. It is too early yet to generalise about Merthyr, but the club had a valuable match last; Saturday with Swansea. Town. Ton Pentre, too, after receiving a Ca/rdiff league team, to-day entertain Oaerleon. that enterprising Mon- mouthshire comibinaAion, which headed the Newport Senior League last season. If Oaerleon can reproduce last season's form this will not be their last visit to the senior olubs of Glamorgan. For the third time' in the last twenty years a club will use. the ambitious title of Cardiff, and. it is sincerely to be hoped that Riverside, mnder itos newly-sanctioned name of Cardiff Oity," will experience better fortune than its two predecessors. They were both good clubs, especially the first, but circumstances were too strong, and they came to an untimely end after hard and meritorious existeasces. True, there has been, and is, no Jack of smart junior organisations in Cardiff, and of them the late Riverside club and the Camerone have lasted ffche best of the present lot. St. Margaret's, Cardiff Teachers, Cardiff Corinthians, Mackintosh, Splott, Y.M.C.A., Singletons, and Cardiff Albion, had their day, when they were fit company for any of the senior clubs of the time in South Wales. Now, Riverside, as the oldest existing club in the town, and for their enterprise in joining the South Wales League, have earned the chance to try their luck under the proud naane "Cardiff City. May Bueoeas be the Tew a id of Mr. Wilson and his committee! I hear that the entries for the senior and junior cup campetitionis of the South WaJes Association are coming in well, and will probably exceed tihe numbers of last year. The closing date for the receiving of entries by Mr. Hart has been extended to the end of this month, but the earlier any out- standing ones come in the better. Yes, in reply to a query, players may be registered at any time during the season. The first list sent in may be added to at any time. The secretary will be pleased to supply registra- tion forms if requested. For the benefit of any clubs new to tihe proceeding, I will repeat, in different words may be, a state- ment I, made about this time last year. Players are required to be rogistered at least four weeks previous to the date of the round in wthaeh it is proposed they obadl play. The registration form has two columns. The first may be filled in wholly j by the secretairy of the olub ,but in the second column it ia the player's signature which is required. That is to say each player is expected to sign his name with his own hand. And the name must be in full. And further, in the Junior Cup Competition no player most have played in a Senior Cup tie for the two preceding seasons, nor is any professional eligible. Attention tothes.e points will prevent a. lot of trouble and delay. It is a, matter for .regret that Merthyr Vale seem to be non-existent so fa.r this year, be- cause last year several victories of more then ordinary importance were achieved. And in the second division of the South Wales League the red and whites put up many a strong claim to leading honours. But it is pleasing to see th3lt things are moving Llanbradach way, and that the prospects are Tosy in that famous centre of "final" Soccer aootivity. The club will compete in the first division of the Rhymney VaHey League, of which organisation it was one of the original members, and will meet therein such attractive clubs as Treharris, Aberdare, Ac. The annual meeting of the Cardiff Schools' League revealed the usual prosperous con- dition of things, and there are indications that more extensive operations may be undertaken tihis year in tihe running of another division. Mr. Craze handed over jjfi secretarial pen to MT. Lloyd, of Stacey-road Sjphool, and ZPceived in exchange, so to speak, the league money bag, which for many years has been guarded by Mr. Amos. The chair- man is again Mr. Sh-arpe, Radnor-road School, and Mr. Francis will continue to act as the vice." League matches may be expected to begin towards the end of the month.

I. LEAGUE GOSSIP. I [By I aOCCERITE.") I First Division Progress. Although barely a fortnight of the season has passed, enthusiasm in the Soccer world is at fever heat, and surprises are the order of the day. The two Liverpool teams won their matohes last Saturday, Liverpool beat- ing Chelsea(l) and Everton defeating Bris- tol Oity (2—0) on the letter's ground. Bris- tol's combination is seriously at fault, and the club will suffer in their coming matches unless there is less individual effort attempted. Nottingham also supplied two teams in last week's tourney. The Foresters gained a notable victory at Shef- field over United (2-1). The" Blades" had fully expected to scalp Notts Forest, and, although they lost tihe match, they will prove a game lot against aJl-comers this season. Notts County (2) WooAwioh Arsenal (1) was the result of a. battle of forwards, the "Gunners" never reaching the level of their opponents. Blackburn Rovers, haying re-arranged their team, secured three out of six goals in the match with Manchester Oity. A win for the Rovers would have been the oorreat result on the play, the City being lucky to escape defeat. Aston Villa also drew with Sheffield Wednesday-1-1. The ViSiaos ought to have won—indeed, they were unhick to draw. Their weakness forward will be remedied, and once they get into itdKUf stride they wild grove a tough anoraal. Manchester "United axe showing their oham^donship form already, decisively defea-ting Preston 5—0 on Saturday, and Bury 2-1 on Monday. Newcastle United, having disposed of Bradford City, beat Leicester Fosse by 2— 0 Both these teams are newcomers to the first division. Bradford CSty met with, their second disaster at the bands of Middles- brough. They play their first home match to-day with Manchester City, and the supporters Of Woolopolis will be surprised if there is not a great change of form. Talking of form. some amazing examples iiave been siiown during the week. Preston North End, having drawn with Chelsea'on the opening day of the sea- son, defeated them on Monday (6—0). Eyer- ton beat Woolwich (4-0) last Wednesday week, yet within a week, a.t Everton, the ArQ-enai win i>y 1--0. Second Division Doings. The tit-chit of this league was Eulham's 6—1 win u\t.-i- otvJii.pv>ii Couiity, tne "ooitagers" loss to Gloasop last week being responsible tor a coinpiett) cuunge in the team, Wltlla happy result for Fulham. The three drawn games were Oldham Athletic v. Derby ooumy (l-i., trriuteoy v. wet Bromwicn (1-1),. and Wolverhampton Wanderers v. lilacKpool (2-2). The keenest match w-as at Leeds, where Tottenham Hotspur were beaten by Leeds City (1—0) after a hard tussje. Both the old first division teams, Birmingham and Bottom, won their matohes against Gainsljwjrough amd Barn-ley on the lather's grounds. Bradford Park Avenue aie showing wonderfui form in their matches, Onesterfield being their latest victim. Their entry into second division f ootball is a conspicuous one. Soutnern League. BIG SCORING. Exeter City are delighting their adherents by their tine play. An entirely new team, they have drawn their flist two niatchee, ana crtated a favourable impression in the league. The other debutantes, Ley ton and Coventry, nave not done so well, each losing their mutches asaintit Crystal Palace and Northampton. Luton, at ihome, could only draw with Reading (2—2). Southampton took two points from, Brentford, and Brighton and uove secure two oy routing West Jiam, 3—2 being the scores in each match. South- end IT-nitsd hardly came rip to expectation by losing to New Broonpton (Ol), It was their nist. liiaton in league lootball, but tney duifer?d through injury to players in the first ha;)t. 'lney are an evenly-balanced t?m. and waii justify their inclusion in the league. Pompey" 2, Watford 0, represents a well- game tull of interest, Portsmouth showing cleverer science in all departments. One scarcely knows wha.t to think of the result of the Swindon-Norwich City match. Ten goals to two is ta.11 scoring, and in their first two match-as Norwich City have had fourteen goals scored against them. The "Canaries" made a name last season by defeating Sheffield Wednesday (English Cup holders) They iseem destined to be noto- rious, although nobody will envy them of their present notoriety. Roney a.t goal was bombarded with ght>ts that were unbeatable. Hogan scored four of the goals, and through- out played a ftneglaJnH. There must be a drastic change in Norwich City's back divi- sion or new secords in tall scores will be set up. Their forward line is splendid, but helpless, owing to laok of efficient support from the backs. Thie prospe-ots of the new Cardiff Cirty teaan are exceedingly rosy. Tibere is an abundance of good players available, from which it it- hoped a team will be seleoted capable of giving the professional S'outh Wales tea.ms a good game; Visiting t-eam-s will find points more difficult to obtain on Sophia Gardens tha.n hitherto. Unfortunately, the club is still without an enclosed ground, despite strenuous efforts made by the committee. However, hope, is not entirely lost, and it is probable that the iatfe matohes on the list will be played on a ground where a gate can be taken. Should this come to pass, Cardiff Soccer would soon take its rig'htful place in the front rank, instead of languishing in the rear, as in past years. CARDIFF CITY A.F.C. S,P FIXTUBEsS 1908-9. 1908. 1909. Sept. 5-Weston-s-Mare .A Jan. 2-Mardy.H „ 12-Penarth Par. C. A? 9-,C'diff Men. Hos. A 19-Clevedon Al „ 16-Ton Pentre* .H 11—Barry Di6l?-ict_, I 20—Ebbw Vale* .A „ 26—Barry Dk. Mb.A, Feb. 6—Swansea Town* .A Oct. .-Cathedral,UW.Hl pO 13Barry Dk. Alb. H „ 10—Merthyr Town* AI 20-Atilford United* H 17-Fbbw Vale- ..27-Ton Pentre* .A 24-Lla.nbra.da.ch.A; Mar. 6-Univeri;itv Col. U 31-S'ansea United* Hi 13—Cwmparc* A Nov. 7—1st Rd. S.W. Cup „ 20—Merthyr Town* H „ 14—1st Rd. Welsh Cup! „ 27—Mardy* A A! 27-Mardy ? A 1=iJ1e1 Col. HiApl. 2=P.dD}Ye: Hos. '1 „ 2&—Barry District* .H 17-United Banks ..H Dec. 5—Llanbradach* .H 24—Cathedral Utd. H 12-Hereford Town .A „ 19—Cwmparc* H 25-Milford United* A? „ 26—Pembroke Dock .A South Wales League. lÆM.,GmE' FORECAST. Probable results of matches played September 19. DIVISION I. 'Bristol City v. Woolwich Arsenal. •Newcastle United v. Notts County. Preston N.E. v. Leicester Fosse. Middlesborough v. Everton* Manchester City v. Manchester United* 'Liverpool v. Bradford Oity. *Bury v. Blackburn Rovers. Sheffield United v. Chelsea* .A.ston Villa v. Sunderland. .NottB County v. Sheffield Wednesday. DIVISION II. ♦Baraaley v. Hull City. Bradford v. Stockport County. Burnley v. West Bromwldh Albion* Clapton Orient v. Blackpool* Fulhiam v. Rirmiingham* IG-,i-aby v. Gainsborough Trjoity. •Leeds Oity v. Derby County. •Oldham Athletic v. Chesterfield. Tottenham Hotspurs v. Bolton Wanderers* .W olves v. Glossop. I Pki.:red 00 erouoo Of navtl-l? olub. d..v. b.a.bl. winner. Draws le?cpe!)!.

I AUSTRALIAN TOURISTS. I The following players have been selected to represent Australia in the forthcoming tour I in this country:— BAOKS- W. Diok (New Zealand), and Carinichael (Queensland). THREE-QUARTER BAOKS: C. Russell (Newton), H. DaJy (Mugee), E. Maudeville (Sydney), J. Hickey (Glebe), D. V. Carroll (K George's), E. Parkinson (Queensland), F. Bede Smith (Central Western), and A. J. X'O&be (Sydney). FIVE-EIGHTHS: C. H. M'Kinan (Glebe), and Ward Prentice (West Suburb). FORWARDS: J. T. Barnetfc (Newton), J. Stephenson (Northern), T. Griffin (Glebe), E. M'Intyre (Central Western), C. A. Hammond (University), M'Arthur (East Suburb). Dr. Morain (Northern). P. M'Cue (Newton), P, H. Binge (Sydney). S. A. Middleton (Glebe), W. Oaniwe (Queensland). N. Rowe (East Suburb), M'Murtrie (Central Western), C. E. M-uimin (East Suburb), P. Flannagan (Queensland), S. Richards (Queensland), and II F. Wood (Glebe).

I ENTHUSIASTIC SEND OFF. I Welsh Boxing Champion Goes to America. Jim Driscoll, Set 101b. to 9gt. champion of the world, left Cardiff for America by the 7.40 train from the Welsh Metropolis on Fri- day night, and sails from Liverpool to-day (Saturday) by the Mauretania. The scene of his departure from the Cardiff Station was a great one. Over 1,000 spectators crowded the bay platform of the Great Western Railway, and it was found necessary to requisition the services of the city police to keep the platform clear. Should auld acquaintance be forget," For he's a jolly good fellow," and other aire cheered the departure of probably one of the best boxers and most popular sportsmen the Principality has ever produced. DttsooH's career is well known in South W alee—so well known, indeed, as not to need any lengthy notice. In the whole of his career a.nd of his many fights there has been but one adverse verdict given against him, that being when Mansfield was credited with having beaten him at the Badminton Olub, Cardiff, some few years back. That verdict, however, was certainly not a popular one, -i not a poptll&r one, and by the majority of sportsmen was never acknowledged as being correct. Driscoll's career in America is being looked forward to with a considerable deal of inte. rest. He proposes to make a short stay in New York,. and then go on to Los Angelos, with t-he object of joining foroee with Freddy Welsh. After becoming acclimatised he will probably endeavour to make a match with Abe Attell, this being his primary abject in making a visit to the States. His father-in-law-thu-t well-known sports- man, Mr. Bob Wiltshire-Mr. Tom Burns, and Mr. A. Shirley accompanied Driscoll part of the way on his journey from Car- diff to Liverpool.

INTER-TOWN SPORTS Woe are asked to announce that it has been found impossible to arrange an inter-town contest (Cardiff-Newport-Swansea. £ «.) this year, bnt that the series will be resumed next summer.

AIR RIFLE SHOOTING. FRIENDLY. GI.be, Pontypridd.—J. Bessant, 30; J. Williams 31; W. Millard, 31; A. Bessant, 29; G. Woods, 27; T Hampton, 27; R. Edwards, 31; D. W. Evans, 31; P. Coi.nseli, 30; A. Daviea, 27; T. Woods, 30; H. Bessant, 3G-total, 354. Miskin, Rhondda.—G. Lee, 29; J. Stag, 26; D. Jones, 27; T. Da vies, 29; L. Jones, 27; A. D. Griffiths 31; J. Dare, 29; G. Padfield, 32; P. Owen, 30; J. W. Jones, 32; E. Thomas, 30; W. J. Boyce, 32-total, 354. -Duke of York.—H. Bucknell, 30; C. Little, 29; T. Fry 301, F. Vowles, 32; It. "Gay. 28; P. Little, 27; T. GraJit, 3.2.; T. Carter, 26; A. Lee, 29; W. paes, 30; J. Miller, 32; W. c. Wills, 31-total, 558. Atlae.—T. Parkin, 31; G. Morrta. 31; F, Lash. 33- G Ewe, 29; Q. Padgett, 27; JL HOiIkJIIa. 8; c. Frampton, 30; P. Paynter, 31; B. Prltchard, a; E. Lagee; 30; E. Holloway, 29; C. Boat, 27—total, 355.

WINNERS Of THE FLORIDA CUP, 1908. Mountain Ash Constitutional Club Team. I TOW ROW: D. E. Lewis, W. G. Thomas, E. T. Howeills, Alf Ho wells, amd W. P. Bey. ndsih. BOTTOM ROW: F. Howell a,nd T. Griffiths (captain).

Air Rifle Notes. [By BULL'S EYE."] j As compared with their two previous sea- sons, the Cardiff and District League are making a late start this year, their first matches not taking place until September 25. instead of, as has hitherto been the case, the first week of September. Their lead is being generally adopted throughout the leagues, and league matches will not be in full swing until October comes along.. At the league meeting on Thursday the full list of aceptances was read out, and though numerically less tham last year, the league in itself is a much stronger one, and competition for the league trophies will be no runaway affair. The acceptances to hand number sixteen, and two more clubs are ex- pected to join. Should the league be closed at the former number a fixture list of thirty matches is provided, exclusive of cup and association ties. The question of whether last year's proce- dure should be followed and the league divided into two sections was quickly dis- missed. It will be remembered that during the first year of the league each club had 44 matches, necessitating two matches a week from September to the end of March. Several clubs thought this too heavy a programme, and last year the league was split into two sections, each club having twenty-two matches (cup-ties exclusive). This allowed of one match per week, and the season con- cluded, with the exception, of the final between the respective section leaders, o nMarca It. Even this arrangement failed to satisfy all round, the general complaint being that one match a week was not sufficient. Therefore, when at Thursday's meeting the question of the composition of the league this season was brought forward, the dele- gates present at once vetoed any splitting up business, and unanimously decided to return to the old arrangement. VVrith sixteen or eighteen clubs, as the case may be, the league programme, which has to conclude by the end of March, had of necessity to be arranged to allow of two matches per week being fired off at intervals during the season. While not being suitable to some clubs, the regular match night was fixed for Fridays, with Wednesdays for the mid-week match. Some difficulty has been experienced in filling the place of Mr. George Thomas, who has acted as league secretary from its forma- tion until this season. Mr. Shelly, who was appointed, felt he was unable to undertake the onerous duties, and at the previous meet- ing his resignation was accepted. During the interval the duties were temporarily under- taken by the Association secretary, while the name of Mr. A. W. Spriggs, an old Grange shot, was suggested as a suitable candidate. Mr. Spriggs attended at this week's meeting, when he was appointed, the new secretary s address is 40, Clive-street, Grangetown. With the secession of the Licensed Vic- tuallers' League from the Association a doubt exists round the clubs as to a few points. For the benefit of my local readers I will try and explain the position in a few' words. The Licensed Victuallers' League not being affiliated, matches, friendly or other- wise, between any clubs of their league and clubs affiliated to the Association will not be permitted. Neither shall one of their mem- bers be allowed to participate in any friendly match or shoot along with affiliated members. Affiliated members, however, may engage in the Cardiff Club tournament matches, irrespective of the composition of the two sides. Another point that has been raised is in respect to a man signing on the Licensed Victuallers' League and then wishing to can- cel his obligation in favour of an affiliated league. This will be allowed. Any man. therefore, having signed on for the Licensed Victuallers—to put it plainly, having changed his mind-is at liberty to sign on for an affiliated club, but, having done so, his connection with the Licensed Victuallers must cease, and he cannot further partici- pate in any of their matches or competitions. In addition Xo last year's members, the Moiras Air-rifle Club have secured the services of R. H. Jones, A. Plumber, E. C. Underill, and J. Smart (New Park Lilberals), J. Harrington (Caledonians), S, Hazel (Boath), W. Taylor (Loyals, Newport), and D. Arnold (Rupernae), together with D. Morgan, T. Pol- lard, J. Witoox, J. Emanuel, &. Evians, and that fine sport, Harry Prickett. The Moiras* look like taking a lot of beating in the Cardiff Licensed Victuallers' Air-rifle League. Since writing the above Tiotes relative to Itobe Cardiff and District League, the secretary has received a notice of motion from one of the affiliateu clubs, that theregular shooting Eigiht shall be changed from Friday to Wed- nesday, and when an additional match is requi-red to be fired it shall be on a Friday. -This is just vice versa of what was arrived at during Thursday's meeting. The com- plainant club makes out a very strong case against the Friday, inasmuch as it will 'keep many a good shot from participating in league matches. As is well known, there are scores of prominent shots whose business will not permit of them taking part in a match on a Friday. Moreover (the writer continues), Wednesday has always proved a most suitable night. Why change it? Personally, I am fuily in agreement with tihe complaint. Friday, to me, is no night at :aM to select upon as a general shooting night. I know of at least a dozen clubs who will be seriously affected as regards their true shooting strength by this new move. Wednesday I know for a fact to be the most popular shooting night of the week. A big factor j'll its favour, and one that should be well considered when the matter cornea before the committee, is that it is the general half- holiday, and practically 90 .per cent. of the club membem are free. Friday evenings they are. if not engiaged all the evening, not free until late. There is still time for the committee to make the change. Preparatory to the opening of the league season several of the clubs ihave been getting themselves into form with friendlies. The Alberts engaged Splott Conservatives, and the Atlas have had a turn with their old rivals, the Newport Loyals. In each case the honours rested with the A's. The Alberts Put up 361 agsiniet the Conservatives, winning somewhat easily by 14. The Loyals Iga.Ve the Atlas a good run, losing by 10, with 357 up. A. Day (the L(>yals' crack) was in 357 u F,??, and opened with a 34. Georee score for the winners, whilst Edgar Pritchard, the Atlas captain, got 33.

I WELSH QUOITS I I A Desperate Struggle. I I IBY "PITCHER."] .1 The final for the gold medals and the I ebaaniptansnoip was decided at Plaesycoed before a la/rge crovM. Both teams were at full strength, and the expectation of a keen straggle for su/premiaey materialised. It was! the most desperately exciting game in the annals of MoamnouthahiTa quoits. First one side gained itfhe lead and then the other, and when seven games had been played the score atoodat 133 all. Needless to say, excitement was intense when W. Lewis and L. Baker, the: last two; men on, commeneed pitching. Every movement was watched, especially when their scares were fifteen aud sixteen respectively. Which %f the two could get 21 would win the game, the medals, and the championship for hi9 side. It was a test for both men's nerves,? Baker, with wonderful coolness, con- sidering what was at stake, and playing with I rare skill, left his opponent on sixteen, thus giving Wa/unllwyd victory by five points. There was prior to this a rare struggle | between E. Morgan and J. Jones, the latter ;ga.ini.1).g the verdict by a solitary point. F. Evans v. T. QrowLey was another touch and go. Evams won by two. It may be mentioned that, strange enough, Evans and Crowley) will have to play each other in the semi- final for the Individual Championship and oofp. The best pitching on the ground was seen in the game between S. Warren and J. Miles. The latter took some splendid shots, end must be aoknowleged, on the day's play, to have been the best pitcher on the ground. Full scores Waunllwyd. Taiywain. I F. Evans 1. 21 T. Crowley 19 1 H. Lyons 15 D. J. Jayne 21 E. Morgan 20 J. Jones 21 H. Warren 21 Tal Jones 17 IJ Baker 21 W. Lewis 16 S. Warren 18 J. Miles 21 F., Griffiths 21 G. Lewis 13 B. Williams 17 H. Challenger 21 Totafl 154, Total 149

Miniature Rifle Notes. I By -22 The commencement of another season I shows no diminution of interest in South Waies. Ralther the reverse is the case. New clubs are being formed at Tondu, Rhayader, I BuiLth, Pembroke, and these, together with J laneIly, Neath, Southerndown, Cardiff Wha-rton. amd Splott Conservatives, who were formed too late to join in league matches last year, will ensure a good list of league fixtures. meeti1l' of th+ A.ssociation I' fixtlLres. meeting of th+? Association passed off without any sta-rMin? feature. The peoposal to admit individual members at a fee of 5s. per amimm caused a lot of dis- cussion. It was pointed out that at the last Welsh meeting English competitors were very averse to paying any more in entry fees than members of affiliated clubs were called upon to pay. The Englishmen, | however, were willing to join the Association, but umdeyr the rules this oould not be

SEPTIMUS JONES, Pentre, Rhondda. Sep. as he ds familiarly known, is an enthusiastic mecmbk-r of the Pentre Miniature Rifle Club. A keen shot, a thorough sportsman, an old soldier, and a vetera;n Volunteer, he was the proud winner of a silver medal offered by a member in a eompetitioin at 25yds. in the indoor range out of twelve competitors.

MR. J. J. DAVIES, Taiywain. is captain of the Garndiffaith 2nd Mon- mouthsMre Regiment Miniature Mfie Club. He is a good shot, being the higheBt I in the averaiges of his club.

I THE CHAMPIONS" RECORD. Grangetown, who this year again retain championship honours, have had a most successful season. As will be seen from their League reeoiu, they have eight times won by an innings, and, witn the ex-ception of the last match on their card—Penyian—they have won the remainder in a. somewhat hollow fashion. Twice only have they been set double figures to get to win in their second æningrS-onoe at iNewport, where they lost tour men in obtaining tho requisite, 24. and tne Penylan fiasco. Harry Evans heads the batting honours with nearly thirteen per innings, h.is nearest rival oomg bis captaan, Uhariie iSpackman. The brunt of the bowling has been borne by the old veteran Lew Lewis. wnilst Harry E varus has also bow id with effect on several occasions. B'uzzer Heaven, who is without fear at back-stop, has bad a great year, his bag numbering no fewer than 150 victims, an average of twelve per matoh. Mainly to him bei-ong-s the credit far the hollow ness of some of the team's wins. Ilhe champions' highest score was 115 in their first match with Penylan, and the lorwest 43, against the Barbarians. The highest soore against them is 73 by Penylan, and the lowest 9 and 31 by the Albions. In the first innings the Albions only scored 5 runs off the bat:- Scor Scores lor. agst. 1st 2nd 1st 2nd Opponents. inns. inns. inns. inns. (H) 1iewport-Won by an innings and 18 runs 52 — 13 15 (A) Roath GOrteryati"e Won by ten men to bait.. 90 9 46 51 u-V) Grange Barbs.—-Won by an innings and 23 runs.. 82 30 29 (A) Grange Albions—Won by innings and 54 rans.. 94 9 51 (A) Splott by eleven men to bat 90 4 20 63 (U) Penylan-Won by an innings and 2 runs 115 40 11 (H) Grango T'p'anoe— Won by innings and 31 runs.. 10+ 36 47 (A) Xewport-Won by 7 men to bat$5 24. 35 51 (H) Roath-Won by an innings and 16 runs 104 34 54 (H) Grange Barbs.-Won by 10 men to bat 43 4 18 27 (H) Grange Albions—Won by innings and 6 runs.. 92 — 33 52 (H) Splott—Won by innings and 29 TUng 79 23 n (A) Penylan—Won by de- fauit 50 *76 71 56 Totals .I960 117 429 541 Pen yl an. walked off the field with the Grange scora at 76 for nine. Grange then wanted two runs to win. PLAY EES' AVERAGES. NID- of Times glotsi inns, not out. runs. Avrra. H. Fvan 17 5 151 12,5g ('. Spackman 16 4 112 9. I;& W. H. Boon 13 3 113 7.55 J. Pritchard 17 4 91 7.59 N. Nott 5 1 26 6.50 W. Evans 13 5 80 6.15 A. Maptestooe 18 3 82.. 5.93 IJ. Wall. 18 77.. 5^14 L. Lewis. 18 4 22 5.86 V. Huzzey 18 4 70 5 J. Manning 16 3 58 4.46 J. Heaven IS 4 61 4.36 H. Lucy has batted once for no ruhs. J. Heaven, at backstop, has taken 90 men behind aad 6Dbetwoon the bases, an average of 6 per innings. As is only to be expected, the Penylan- Grange incident still rankles deep in the hearts of many baseballers Itoath way. Mr. Eveleigh, of the Pemiylan dub, writes giving a aiiterent version of the incident to that, givem by the refetree. iMT. Eveleigh, who complains bitterly of the sportsmanship of the Grange team right through the match, instances several alleged mistakes of the referee, and UPQJl. the point which caused his team to leave the field he states that the position was as follows. Spackman was bat- ting and Harry Evans was on No. 1 base. He (EveHeigb.) bowled- a "good'' ball to Spack- man. Evans made -No. 2. The second ball .rhe second ball was also given "good," and Evans made No. 3. The next ball was "bad," and Evans got home. The position was now two "good" and one "bad." The referee then left the bowling crease and went to the poorers where he inquired how many runs Grange wanted to win. When he returned he asked the bowler (Mr. KveLeigb) if two "good" and one "bad" was right. The next ball bowled the bowler appealed for "How's that?" and the referee called three good and out. Then came the appeal of Spaekman, the reversal of the referee's decision, and the sudden conclusion of the game. If that had been the case Spackman was out, but the referee's version is different to. Mr. Eveleigh's. True, four balls were bowled altogether, but they were not as Mr. Eveleigh stated. The referee saya he called two good: and two bad—in fact, an extra was given, eo that Spackman could not poasiMy giv^n, bad three good balls. The referee accounts for his slip owing to the unruly crowd, and also to the fact that Mil". Eveleigh mds-ted him Pror tK) bowling the ball which caused the dISPltte. These are tbe faite and I again say that the Penylan captain was not justified in taking bis team off tbe field If he did not agree ?"? ?? actionfbif L,,],^? referee, m Teve-'ng Ma decisiimT the bave continued the mstohand apo^awf to High OmirL Whether the referee was TiVht oi no as for the Assomation to decide A. jngtM?mg' tha.t ? is a CM11&1 practice ?r a referee to alter his decision, provided he sees bis mistake aJt the moment, Mr. George Smith, a mwt mpeblo r?M; rev?raeda   's?-e day at the Sophia Gardems, bo.th toa- accepting tbe eitu"ou a,t once.

MR. CHAPPLE REJOINS. To the Editor of the "Exeniag Express Sir.-With reference to "Back Stop's" com_ memts m Saturday's Fotbdl Edition on the disputed match Penylan v. Grangetown I trust ?? will give equal I?ominence to thefoJiowang as you did to his article. On One occasion during the progress of the game and before the dispute arose, Spack- IDJain had received two good balls, and upon another being bowled to him and unaccepted the referee hesitated for at least five seconds before dectdmg "bad," and this after havimr been appealed to by the Penylan back stop Now, I ask, does it take a referee that leCth of time to decide between a good an?d??d ball. Again, whilst Court, of Penylan was batting he missed the (ball, and Heavens picking it up, threw to Huzzey on No 1 and he, without even attempting to touch base or man, threw to No. 2, yet the referee gave Court out. I could mention several other decisdons of the referee prior to the one which termi- nated in Penylan leaving the field, but 1, think the foregoing should be quite sufficient to give the public an insight. I contend that Penylan have not forfeited their right to the name of sportsmen, as such decisiooo as those above referred to are calculated to try the patience of saints, to say nothing of sports. May I ask Back Stop to again read T. Ohapples letter, and he will then find that nothing was mentioned therein about send- ing in a protest to the Association by Peny- lan. T. Cba-pple is quite well enough versed in the rules of the Association to understand that the captain of Penytlan by his action forfeited all rights to protest, and was quite aware that a present had been made to Grange of the points. I have to thank "Back Stop" for his infor- mation regarding the decision, come to at a meeting of the referees, viz. That a decision can be altered upon their attention being called to the number of balds delivered. I was quite unaware of this, not having been previously informed, thnid s, I think that same sJlOuld be added to this, I think that same should be added to the rules as a bye-law. Now (and I may mention, that this is the cause of all the dispute) "Back Stop" states that Spackman received three good balls, and as he was not the last batsman, Evans being still in, he- was not entitled to four, and as three good unaccepted balls consti- tute "out." there was only one decision necessary and right, and that was "out." I may mention that the scorers were not ques- tioned at all regarding the matter, but that t,he referee was approached by several of the Grange players, with the result that the referee (I still maintain wrongly) reversed his decision. Pemylan do not wish to pose as martyrs, but the decision of the captain in taking his tea.m off the field, and thereby forfeiting big right of protest, was in no small measure due to the treatment meted out to them bv the Association last year, when th^s (Penylan) ^-fXe compelled to play two finals for second division honotirs.-I am. &c., T. OHAPPLE. 66, Oyfa.rtbfa-street, Cardiff, T. OHAPPLE. Sept. 8.

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CARDIFF FOOTBALL CLUB. WESTON-SUPER-MARE V. CARDIFF -RESERVES. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12th, 1908. Kiok-off at Three p.m. TriaJ Matoh Kick-off 4.15. a2913 C. S. ARTHUR, Secretary. YARDY A.F.C. requires a good home match for September 19th; good guarantee given to first-class leanft.—Apply Secretary. e2725ala CAERPHILLY. MONDAY NEXT.-Two Rabbit Coursing Matchos. "Sporting Life" Referee. e2659al2 ST. MARGARET'S A.F.C.The above dub requires Fixtures, home and away, for the season.—Apply for dates 2 Tydraw-piace, Cardiff. e2602al2 NEV2I, LLE JUNIORS A.F.C. require Fixtures with good junior teams, home or away.—Apply Sec., Thomaa Caru, 71, Wyndham-street, Cardiff. e3661al4

WESTERN MAIL FOOTBALL ANNUAL, 1908-9. ONE PENNY. SOLD BY ALL NEWSAGENTS. "rinted and published by Thomas Jones 'or the pro- prietors at Baa, St. Marytreet, in the City t Car- N?tetors at68eas' Norman, Castle-street, Swaneea' hv b y i a m B. G. Williams, Glebeland-street, Vrtihy;T,?dea the shop of Mr. Wesley Williams, Bndgecd—aJ! ia the County of Glamorgan; by Jabez Thomas, 22, High- etreet, Newport; at the shop of Mr. J. P. Caffrey, Monmouth-both in the County of Monmouth; at Jhe shop of Mr. Davtd John, Llanelly, in the County of Carmarthen; an4 at the offices of Mr. T. A. Davies, The Bulwark, Brecon, in the County of Brecknock. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 1900.

still has the right of financing when neces- sary his team a.t his own expense. St. Peter's are an unknown quantity; they ar3 the dark 'oese- of the competition. The only thing certain is that. whether the team is strong or weak, the tradition of the dob of being real en will be upheld. Here s luok to the bhoye of the club wMct produced Billy Neill. Adamsdown is a new team in only a degrte It has been formed on the "as'hes" of the Adamsdown Olalr-a. team which was as red- hot as their scarlet jersey a typified when as a junior side they carried off honours a few seasons ago. The then secretary, Mr. F. J. Critchett, is the see. of the present ciub. Tne players are nearly 3.11 the product of school Rugger in the Metal-street and Adamsdown Schools. Billy Hall, a player in the unbeaten Metal-street School side, is the captain. One French tour has been definitely arranged, and the club has. also been invited to pay a second visit to France The Adamsdown side will be a good one. Cardiff Rovers make their debut in the senior league. The said debut was not alto- gether to iLe Liking al' some of the members, but when the Union pointed out the fict that the Rovers bad proved medal lifters of a wholesale description they.consented. Last season the lads placed th-j best football oat- side tb<j Cardiff F.C. teams. It was pretty and attractive, as well as successful, in tht- way of running up scores. When not over- weighted the liovers will capturc poinus. Tl;e players tre young, and as school boys nearly all played Soccer. R. M'Carthy ha? the honour of being the captain, aud Mr. D. Glee- son-a good spo-m-will be the hon. sec. Cardiff Fruiterers wanted to change their name to "Banana Boys." A majority decided agair-t this, probably on the score that tor- wards of ovor 6ft. and 14et. could hardly be termed "boys." Thds is the club's first tist,3, of Division J. They won the Union Shield last, season. The same players are available to win the Mallett Cup. Skipper Finn whilst training, however, met with an accident to his leg which will keep him out of the field for a time. A speedy recovery. Genial E. Windsor will act as secretary, and will also don the blue jersey. After an absence of several years, Whit- el-urch has decided to re-enter the senior competition. The Villagers have a capital i ground, ar. ideal secretary in Mr. Dai Davies, and a famous history. As Messrs. Gwyn Nicholis and H. B. Wmfield are residents of the ViU4,ige, -?ome of the of past football fame of the district ehould be revived. A good team is available, and all tha.t is wanted is sympathetic support from fol- lowers oT Rugby in the district. The hon. officials, who work without fee or rewar-l, should be relieved of financial worry. Now Whitchurch, allow a little patriotism for tho Ihds, Gramgetown has lost B Williams to Adams- down, Charlie Tustin to Mackintosh, and George Jennings to the Wanderers; hut thero are plenty of excellent recruits available A rally of the old players is likely to take place beiore league mat ones commence. I'he me;i 1 of the City of Bricks may be relied on to have a good team by October. Mr. J. h. Evan", is the hon. sec. once again. The Cardiff Harlequins-eomposed largely of old Metal-street schoolb-oys-,Do-memce their first season as far as league football is concerned. In pasit years they have done excellently in Iriendi-jes. The &kipper is tho old league veteran. J. Bowles. I am glad to r.ictice that the club will play on Splott Park. Good Rugby has been long absent from that portion of the city. Mr. A. G. Stanley has been re-elected secretary. Hravo! Space tbU week prevents me dealing with the second and third division clubs. They shall appear next week, if possible. Caerphilly has granted a transfer to H. Bishop, who, has joined Canton. The "Dervishes" axe sti-id to be likely to have the services of a well-known Penzance player. The match between Canton and Cardiff Rover's to-day was booked as a. league game. The Rovers, however, asked that it should be counted as a friendly owing to a difficulty in getting together their full strength. It was felt that, as the Rovers had been almost forced into the senior league at the last moment, their application was reason- able, and it was granted. At the next meeting a sub-committee will be appointed which will be empowered to perform the duty throughout the season of fixing new dates for unplayed matohes and dates for non-arranged matches. It is pro- posed to give this body power to cause clubs to cancel uuremunerative friendly games when necessary in the rearrangement of league dates. Transfers of players from one Union club to another will this season be accepted only on the official forms supplied by the Union. Next, Please! The following incident actually took place at the reoent annual meeting of a well-known club held in an equally well-known hostelry The agenda not being in evidence, the Ohair: man, who had just been elected, in his open- ing speech, said, "Now, boys, whait axe we going to have first?" Chorus of players, "Pint, please!" The pints (a,t the players' own expense), it must be admitted, took precedence over the selection of captain or secretary. Complaint Against Referee. Dear "Spokes,"—In the interest of Welsh olubs visiting Glouceetersiure, I am com- pelled to complain of the weak refereeing of Mr. Roberts, of the Gloucester Union, in our match against Lydney last Saturday. His decisions were heart-breaking to the players. The Ly-dney players a.nd officials we found real siportsmen, and one of them afterwards remarked, I cannot understand how your fetio-ws stuck on the field; I'm afraid our feiiows woutd have1 walked off." I can quite understand how Gloucester clubs can pile up big scores against Welsh clubs after Saturday's experience. I am writing solely in the interest of Welsh clubs playing in Gloucestershire, for the Adamsdown Cl-ob can take a licking with good grace. Lydney we found the better side on Saturday; they deserved a sub- stantial win.-Yotvs, Ac., F. J. COBITCHETT, RoOn. Sec., Adamsdown F.C. Rhymney Valley Seniors. The excellent work accomplished by Mr. T. H. Llewellyn last season has- been recognised by his re-election as chairman of the league. Mr. Rees Jones, had, as usual, a unaalimous vote for the secretaryship. This season a banking account is to be opened, and aJl the financial transactions will thus be carried out in a business-like manner. Mr. Ellis, the league hon. treasurer, did not ae&k re-election, muoh to the regret of all. In t a hearty vote of thanks Mr. Em? w?! thanked for his valuable past services. No further teams can now be admitted into the league, as the fixture-lists are com- plete. Compared with last season, there is one club less in the competition. Fleur-de-Lia United and Bargoed participate in the com- petition as new-comers. Bedwas have entered the junior league owing to the majority of their players, who have done seMiee for several seasons, catching the epidemic named "Iletirement"-juat now very prevalent. Blackwood has gone over to the Monmouth Valley League, owing to the' inconvenience of their delegates in attending the league meetings. The Rhymney Valley League hope they will have a successful season. The teams now in the league are MaoJJen, Caerphilly, Fleur-de-Lis, Aberbargoed, Bar- goed, Rhymney First, and Voehriw. The next meeting of the league will be herd, at the White Lion Hotel, OaerplpHy, on Saturday next.  Monmouthshire VaHeys. The clubs have elected the following, offi- cials this n:-oha:innan, Councillor W. Daviee (Crnmlin); vice-chairman, Mr. W. Taylor (Cwrno?m); secretar; W. H. 9hep- pard (Newbridge); and tr?aacrer, MT. W. Finch (Talywain). Successful as the league was last season, if numbers are any criterion, success eh/Hikt be greater this season. Although New-bridge has dropped out, this is more than compen- sated for by Tnyaddu, E??tokwood. and IUWA .iO!niq. The league ?Me eea?m will be composed of Pomt?bd It?ez?ee. T?tyw?n. Ynysddo, Blackwood, Risca, Gwmoarn, Llanhdlletth, and Grumlin. It will be remembered that last season's league competition. was undecided when the season aliased. Gwmcartn, tosquarerUip matters, have to meet Pontypooi Reserves on October 17. They have to win that match to gain I the championship. A draw would make both equal. The new entrants—Risoa—are sure to prove a hot side. Risca's doingB in past seasons I have been consistently good. Blackwood, in the Rhymney Valley League did well, and, doubtless, will do still better in the Valleys' League. Well, done, Taiywain! The strength of the so-called "junior" teams in this league was shown by TaJywain's victory last Saturday over Tredegar at Tredegar by a dropped goat, Taly played good football. Western Valley. I It is pleasing to note that a great improve- ment 11a.S ta.Ken place. Last season there were but four teams, but already is-even have joined this season. The Union of Welsh Leagues should do their utmost to toster RugDy in tile Western Valley, for Northern Unionists are very active in inducing: the lads to adopt their code. This was shown last season by EiOiow Vaie, organising a medial competition under N. L rules tor junior teams. The clubs now in the league are Garovach, Blaenau Gwent. Cvvmtiliery, Newbridge, PIa Harriers Reserves, Biaina. Seconds, and I ■bryninawr Seconds. The following officers have been selected by the leaguePresident, Dr. Rocyn Jones; cnairman, Mr. D. Moxiey (Garavach); trea- surer, Mr. Stone (Cross KeY8); hon. secretary, Mr. A. Powell, 11, Argyie-etreet, Abertillery. Few men have worked so hard as Mr. Powell in the interest of junior football in Mon- mouthshire, and I must congratulate him on the success of his iiard work in re-eetablaah- ing the league as a real power for good in Gwent. Monmouthshire. It is to be regretted that 80 many league matcnes were unplayed last season. Unty two CHID", in tact, played tiie full complement ot giunes, and tney were Cross Keys and biaenavon. The games held over will have to be decided tthis season, and, if I mistake not, the arreai« m April, 1, are Ujteiy to be as greit if DOlt creater, than at the dose ot tne 1'.a season. l'ne destination ot tne silver medals has yet to be decided. Pill Harriers and Trede- gar are the two clubs in tne running. Tne latter nave three matcnes to luitil in last year league, and have need to win the lot to secure the lionour of being runnero-up i and owners of the silver meuals. One of these matches is with Abertillery, the oham- pions. as Pill have only OWmbran to meet, 11 rather fancy the chances of the Newport Dockers before Tredegar. Newport District. I Only two divisions siM, after all, be run this season. Tiie lower will be couiftned to lads under seventeen years of age, and the other will be open to players who are between seventeen aJKt 21 years. TJbe new clubs who have entered the senior division are Cwmbran, Albion Reserves, and fill Alpha. There will be six clubs in tois competition. The entry is still open. and it is noped this number will largely increase, I There are several vacancies in the junior division. Early application to the hon. 800.. M. A. E. Vale, should be made. I Bedwas. Although Bed was became despondent when they heard that the stalwarts were .retiring, last Saturday's trial has proved that there are many young ones of merit available, and the club should do well in the new competi- tion. Tom Watte gives promise of making a Teal good half. Out un" Sparrow, t'ed Rough 'an," and "Gaff" Nicholas, of the old stagers, are as good as ever. To-day Aber. tridwr will be met at Bedwas. Hon. &ecre- tary C. E. Williams, who is proud of his nom de plume, "Poug-h lun," will regularly don the jersey. Judging by last Saturday's I display, his sojourn in tne United States has not affected has footbaJl. I Rhymney Valley Junior. j To-day will find the competition open, for Bedwas, at home, will try to secure points at the expense of Aber Scarlets. Fleutr-de-Lis have an opening game with Caerpnilly Harriers, and are playing a. purely expefitnental side. Bargoed's meeting with Aberbargoed should be a keen game. Leri is now certain to join the league, Rhymney Seconds are doubtful, whilst Tir- phil are defunct. and Merthyr Seconds have not conquered their ground difficulty. Cardiff Old Boys. I At Wednesday's meeting one new club. viz., Cathays Rovers, joined the new league. The number of organisations in the league now numbers seven. Several names of lads anxious to partici- pate in the competition were sen-t in. and these were allotted to the clubs in their res- pective districts. There are three districts still not catered for. Who will organise the old boys of Splott, Docks, and Riverside? Messrs. W. M. Tunley and W. Staniforth have been appointed by tihe CardtifF yoofttbaN. Club as their representatives on the. com- mittee. Mr. W. M. Tunley was unanimously elected chairman. This is a capital choice, for '"W.M," it will be remembered, bad many ?ye-ars' connection with the Cardiff and Dis- trict Rugby Union as secretary and trea- surer, and\ no one knows the difficulties a league committee has to encounter better than he does. Mr. A. H. Williams "Spokes") will act as horn, treasurer, and Mr. M'Keon as hon. secretary. ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. I Bed was. "Me bon. 900. is. I believe, Mr. G. Hughes, St. Mellon'e, C&rctiff. Please use a penny stamp in future. A. Powell (Abertillery).Quite agree that amalgamation is impossible between the two leagues. The idea, has been. dropped.

permitted. In future, in consequence of the above new rule, it is possible that the annual Welsh meeting will be open only to members of the Association or to members of affiliated I clubs. A suggestion that members of the executive committee should not in future be eligible to OOMPE?E %t any competitive meeting organised by the Welsh Miniature Rifle Association, did not find favour with the meeting. It was pointed out that, as a rule, the members of the executive consist of the most energetic dub members, and to debar them from %ohootdm-g would be unfair to them, as well as prove a financial loss to the Association. Arrangements have been made by the Welsh Miniature Rifle Association, whereby the affiliated clubs this year can purchase ammunition at cost price. This should prove a big financial gain to the oluhs. Another concession is that, instead of paying £.1 for arperture si-ghts as in the past, the clubs will be able to purchase these for about 7s. This will be an inestimable boon to those olubs who have been obliged to stick to open sights on account of their impoverisihed exchequers. At the next general meeting of the Association, to be held in a few weeks, it is hoped that the Glamorgan clubs will submit the name of a member off a miniature rifle club, in order that the Glamorganshire County Association of the Territorial Army can be appjxxwhed, with a view of the Glamorgan Miniature Rifle Clubs being represented on the County Association. » Already the Welsh Miniature Rifle Association has decided to support, the claims of Mr. W. J. ScanneU, of the Newport club, for a seat on the Monmouthshire Association. Com/plaint was made last s-ear that several clubs, after having their home league matches, forfeited the two points and saved their railway tores by refusing to fulfil their return engagements. This year it is proposed to adopt one of the rules of the Florida Cup competition, viz., the home team to pay half the travelling expenses, in every case, of the visiting team. With -such a role the return matches would undoubtedly be fulfilled better tfoa1.-n in the past. Travelling Expenses. The growing comiplaint-s about the manage- menlt of the Queen's Oup competition are getting serious, and unless the rules are greatly altered next year, scarcely any club outside the London area will compete.

Last year the clubs to which the twenty finalists belonged, each received a grant of £ 5 towards paying the expenses of their representatives to London for the final stage. It was anticipated that a similar course would have been adopted this year, bat to the dismay of the twenty they were told at South&elds that this year no grant would be made. Considering that the finalists were all working men, who lost time from work, and paid tneir own expenses to London, the ^announcement that no grant would be made caused a sensation that can be better imagined than described, as there is no cash prize of any description attached to the com- petition. Each of the finalists receives a medal ontly. Even the winner does not get the cup. This ia handed over to the Lord. lieutenant of the county, who in turn hands the -cup over to a local museum, where it is exhibited for twelve months. Lord Roberts has already been approached, with a view to having the conditions altered. One of the features of the weekly com- petitions held by the Society of Miniature Rifle Clubs at the Franco-British Exhibition is the wonderful success of Mr. G. D. Taylor, of Newport and St. Julian's, clubs. Only three competitions are held each week, and during the past two months Mr. Taylor has taken over fifteen prizes, the majority of them being firsts. Other Welshmen to figure in the prize-lists are Messrs. J. W. Monk, Newport, and J. J. Davies, Garndiffaith (Pontypool). A new target is proposed for W.M.R.A. com- petitions. Instead of the present target, at which ten shots are fired at ono bull," the new target 'has ten cartons (half inch in diameter) in different positions on the target. Only one shot will be allowed at each carton, and the highest possible score would be ten, i.e., a. hit on eaoh carton. It is truly claimed that t,he adoption of such a target would be effective in pre- vemt-ing the appeals whioh are now frequently made, as to two shots going through one hole, and the number of shots on a target. Nothing has yet been decided as to whether the target will be used in league matohes this season, this, of course, being a i [matter for the clubs concerned.