The Guardian from London, Greater London, England • 20

20 Monday February 24 1969 SPORTS GUARDIAN I Rapid's foreign players are their key men ALBERT BARHAM reviews Manchester United's next opponents in the European Cup competition MJ I Roger Hunt (fat right) salvages a point for His header beats Ferguson, FOOTBALL ins the sides level at Upton Park. available for that position. He played against Real. The third non-Austrian is Lindmann, from Djurgaarden, an athletic player who can strengthen Rapid's side. But this eager player is a mid-field man, and it is in midfield that Rapid are strongest.

He has to compete for a place with Flogel, Skocik, Ullmann, and Bjerregaard. It looks as though Vytlacil will keep Lindmann in reserve. Rapid's players are mostly pro fessionals, training morning and afternoon. Such professionalism could cost Kaltenelirunner a place in the side. He is a bank clerk, and had to stay away from training, because he could not get away from his work.

It was because Kaltenebrunner came tired from his work to train in the evenings that Vytlacil moved the wayward Dane, Sondergaard, to outside left. "I cannot give a man a place in the team when he does not train under my direction," Vytlacil said. Outside right is Fntsch, a player for whom Boca Juniors offered a million Austrian shillings when the club took part the tournament in Argentina. The club have beaten MTK of Budapest 3-2 drawn with Slovan Pressburg 2-2 lost 4 to Estu- diantes 5-0 to Palmaires and 2-1 to Boca Juniors. They had planned to return to Austria in the first week.

in February, but were recalled after the defeats, and spent some weeks at a spa, trying to find out what had gone wrong. In the party which came to Manchester, together with officials and directors, were Fuschbichler, Herowitsch Geb-hart, Glechner, Ullmann, Skocik, Lindmann, Flogel, Traxler, Fritsch, Grausam, Bjerregaard, Sondergaard, and Rapid Vienna, Manchester Unite d's opponents in the quarterfinal' of the European Cup on Wednesday at Old Trafford, are installed at their training quarters at" Lymm pondering a few problems. These are not so much the 3-0 defeat by Anderlecht club United put out of this year's competitition on Friday evening in a friendly in Brussels, as of management, and of goalkeepers, too. Rapid are iri a strange position. The martin charge on Wednesday will be Rudi Vytlacil, coach to the Russians in Chile in 1362, later trainer of the Bulgarian team.

Yet the man who planned and was the inspiration behind the great victory over Real Madrid in the last round was Karl Decker. Vytlacil, now 57, was in hospital at tne-time of this momentous round. All the credit goes to Decker, who has had six weeks to enjoy those, victories. New technical director But Vytlacil has a contract with Rapid until June 30, and Decker, had to make way. for Vytlacil again, not that the directors were displeased with his work, but that they did not want to break their agreement.

1 So Vytlacil manages the team an Wednesday, and the man in the background" goes-along too. He is Karl Kappan, 64, who was engaged as. Rapid's, new technical director a few weeks ago. This position is equal to that Sir Matt Busby holds. Rappan, the innovator of the "Bolt" system of defence, and once with Lausanne, has emphasised that in no way will he -interfere with Vytlacil; his job begins when Liverpool's methodical play earns draw By ALBERT BARHAM West Ham United 1, Liverpool 1 was in the summer.

They sold Pichler, their reserve goalkeeper, to Salzburg, and obtained Reisinger Von Steyr from Upper Austria. They thought he had great talent, but he failed in the international tournament in which Rapid took part in Mar Del Plata in Argentina. Rapid lost 4-0 against Estudi-antes, and 5-0 against Palmaires Artime scored all five of those goals. The goalkeeper not only let in those goals, but also had his nose broken, and received concussion. Worker and scorer The most reliable of the three foreigners in Rapid's team who will play against United is Bjerregaard, an outstanding forward, qualified to play for Austria.

He is more a tireless worker than technical, but, although he plays behind the attackers at times, he is still the most successful 'scorer for the club. The other two foreign players are Sondergaard, a Dane as is Bjerregaard, but a different player altogether and Lindmann. Sondergaard "has the technical qualities, is inclined to the delicate touches, but is also persistent. Vytlacil plays him only on the wing, claiming that Sondergaard is the only player he has busied themselves around West Ham's defence, But it was the power of Smith and Hughes, not quite matched by Peters and Lindsay, which helped to turn the course of 'this game. Perhaps only Liverpool with their unflappable methodical play could have recovered so effectively against West Ham in their mood of early afternoon.

Until half time only two chances had come Liverpool's way, one, involving' Hunt, Callaghan, and St John, left Thompson with a shot which was deflected the other came from Evans, but Ferguson, arching backwards and off balance, tipped the ball over the crossbar. West Ham substituted Boyce for Charles at half time and it was a slip in the mud by Boyce which led to a pass from Hunt reaching Callaghan. From Callag-han's finely' placed pass NHunt headed Liverpool's crucial goal after 52 minutes. As Shankly grated: "One defeat put us three points behind. But once you start believing things are impossible you win nothing." The battle is only just wanning up for Shankly and his men.

WEST HA3C TJKITED. Perfiscn: Bonds. Charles: Peters, stephensoo, Sfoore- Redknapp. Llndsar. Eroolclns.

Horxt, Slscns SuSstltule: Borce LIVERPOOL. Lawrence, Lander." 3lron anltri. Yemts, Hushes: Hum Ewrts, St Joan, Thompson. P.eleret: D. W.

Smith (Stcaehrjrjtej. ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL ATHLETICS Preston go ahead as Oxford tire By ERIC TODD Preston North End 2, Oxford United 1 Eighteen deserve chance in Europe By JOHN KODDA After the performances of to go up early enough but he the British1 athletes in East SJft third night. While the selectors yesterday, and those of not consider his time, 7.8sec, Madeleine Cobb and Derek very worthy, they must be aware A computer used to count the gate at Upton Park on Saturday fused under the strain of the thousands pouring in to see a possible preview of the sixth round of the FA Cup. The sun bestowed its blessings and the players of Liverpool and West Ham. United responded with football which left many enraptured.

West Ham, adventurous to the point of brilliance with speed of action matching speed of thought, have been offered a tour of America. They are one of the clubs whose play is universally admired. Liverpool, Bill Shankly crackling with defiance after last week's surprise defeat at home to Nottingham Forest, cast off many of their inhibitions. The result, 1-1, was satisfying though West Ham had many chances to win. Lawrence proved the ultimate stumblingjjlock.

He palmed away one snot from Brooking and stopped several more from Peters and Hurst, showing enough of his form to give a broad enough hint to Bobby Brown, the Scotland team manager. Ancient and modern The finest moves of a fine game were a blend of ancient and modern; the speed of the wing men, Redknapp, Sissons, Thompson, and Callaghan, and the pass right across the field. In no better way was this emphasised than the move which led to West Ham's goal, after 32 minutes. Hurst retrieved the ball as it was going out of play and sent Redknapp away on a devastating run which took him past two defenders. Back came.

the pass to 'Hurst, just wide ofYeats at full stretch. Hurst sent the ball scudding across field to where Brooking unselfishly let it run to Sissons. Even Lawrence at his best could not stop that shot. It was a triumphant return for Sissons, back in the team after his cartilage operation in November. Thompson's cunning drew defenders to him almost magnetically.

Evans, blond mane streaming in the breeze, and Hunt, the indefatigable worker. Vytlacil has left, but he is taking this opportunity, as he said, of getting the feel of things in the club. Rapid's other great problem is that they come to Manchester with only one experienced goalkeeper, Fuchsbichler. If this excellent player has to fall out of tlie tie, either through injury in training or in the game, then Rapid will" have some embarrassment There are only two other alternatives. They are either to put in Herowitsch, 21, who is completely inexperienced in matches at this level.

He has never played in a championship match in his life; he has not been abroad before, and he has never played under floodlights. Or they can play one- of the other members of the team in goal. 'At Bad Pystian in Czechoslovakia, Vytlacil gave special train- ing'in goal to Lindmann, a Swede who, according to experts' in Vienna, seldom plays really well in a big match in the field Skocik, Bjerregaard, the best foreign player in the side, and who scored the crucial goal in Madrid against Real and Flogel, one of the side's most experienced workers. Vytlacil, it would seem, has little confidence in Herowitsch. The great mistake Rapid made of his need for high hurdling competition.

McCafferty is not on my list European Games candidates because he missed Saturday's meeting. This left the 3,000 metres as a tidy workout for Andy Holden, of Preston, who broke up the field with a fast final 1,000 metres. 1 1. (Polytechnic 6.8JK.; 2, KeHy Bin? and RiddilUe), 6.8Mt: 3. D.

HllHdw CKF). 6 Snc BO Mvtra unites. 1 D. Hemery (HI1I-iardan AC), 7.9ec: 2, S. storer CBirct.

fleM Hi, 3. R. S. Morrod (Blnndns-bm unto), S.1SN1 3.000, Matro, 1. A.

Bidden (Preston HI. Bmlh. 5 8iea; 2. G. M.

Btlilnrton (Nortti smln. 5. K. BtrUett (OonrenftT Cadlva smln. 15 4sec i Triple Jump- 1.

D. Madotcr College), '5STt. alu. (Cttnnwnwcmi. United Kinxitattr l-nners and national beat performances; 3, a Vincent Godlva HI.

47ft. 6'In-: 3, J. corty (Hideler OoUete, mi. 6'aln. High JamB.

-1. P. Tartar fLivereool 6ft. 2. Fury iLlvercool H), 3.

C. Brand Djeicflrter college of Art and Technolojy). 5ft. llln- Lonc- Jump. 1, P.

Scott (Hothecihara AC). 2ofL 2, Mitchell CBelzrave Hi, S2It 3. BUcltburD isnef-ne-'d vnw 1. 22ft. 2'1n Pole TauJt.

1, HlirdoD (Hercules and Wimbledon AC), 14(t Sin 3. C. M. Ktdd (Oxford 12(1. l'sln 3, G.

Reed (Bristol l'aln 400 Metres. 1. C. cxmpbeU (Polytechnic HI. 48.5aec 2, J.

A. Wilson (Borough Raid ccHese), 50-lec 5, J. Aultett (BdrmlUBham 50 2See. Shot. 1, Capes Wolbeach AC).

Soft 2, N. J. Kltchin StreUord AC), 44-tt 3. Crlffli (Wlndscc. Slmifch, and Dion AC), 43ft.

5ln 800 Metres. 1. J. Gxeotrex (ILoiJiEli-borouili CoUeaes), Imln 50 2, Roberts (ttjoirthboroush College) lmln. Dlaec; 3.

P. Johnston (Bironflead H. UdH 2.0 0O Metres Steeplechase. 1 P. A.

Mferrta (Qtaokponl and Vylde ac). Smtn. 42 2. D. MarjatL (futumo Valley II) 55n4n.

S4sec- 3 a. Pantcr (Nim-exron H), Smln. 5 8tee. 1,500 BXatre. 1.

wrirhn (SlaiTord-ablre Polloe), 3mlrt. 55.2ec; 2, a. MtSTab (rxushborcnxsh collects), 3rouv 57 4eec; 5. Eler (Blnnlnsham University), Sirdn. 57 Usee.

200 Metre 1, B. Waltcn (Wolverhampton and BUston), 22 3sec: 2, E. D. Pace (dty of Leeds). 22.Tarc.: 3.

D. WJJllamj (NDttlnTrumsJilre AC), 22.Biea WOMEN BO Stems Hnroies. l. Perera rstret- ford, act, (tquhi world, Etcropean, TTnltnA XTlr-rHrrn ml.fitimm' and national best penfonnances): 2, Scott rsiroli-fteld H), 8seo; o. A J.

Edwards (Blrch-fleld H). 9 IMC 400 Metres 1, P. Attwucd (Bristol AC), 57 2, Howell (Hull Achilles). 59.3sec: 5- Grlmw iwitltywoocj AO, 63 Glen Hli-h Jump 1, Todd (Bull Achlllcsl. 5ft; 2.

K. Whlteman (British Tlmkcn AC), 5K- 3 V. Knovrlca (Mlllfleld AC), 5lt 200 Melres. 1, M. Tranter (Woiver-hamptc-n and Bflsron ACI, 24 Bc: 2, champion tS-tretted AC).

25.5ECC; 3 J. Velll (Bedford CPE), 25 Ssec 800 1Hre 1. S. A. Wflls (Bristol AC).

2mln 14 sec 2. A. Stanley (Hull 2min. 14.7SC0.: 3. Hcrron ISegnlhorpe Hi, 2mln.

17.Hseo. Lone Jump 1, Scotc (Blrchfleld H) 19(t. Sisln 2, Caswell CMldd'ctpx Ladles). 19(t. 4in 5.

Clclland (iLci-ttitcr CAT 1971. suit. I. B. Bedford Mltonam AC), 47ft.

2. J. Qllldc (MJtctlani AC), 40ft S'ain; 3, Payne (Loiells H). itstt. lln.

00 Metres. 1, II Ccbb (Selsonla LAO. 7.4sec tunited Klrdont aU-coroers nest performance): 2, Tranter (Woli-erhamp ton and Bllston 7 5io 3, J. O'Keia ('Bedford CKS), 7.ffscc RACING Blackpool unlucky not to take point By PAUL WILCOX Middlesbrough 2, Blackpool 1 The Nxrtih-east could have three teams in the First Division nest sea-sjon. A few injuries here, and a bit of time wasting there, aind the diligence of the referee in adding up the rwirauites for the stoppages, conspired to foaj Blackpool's attempt to win a point at Ayresome Park.

Muddies-brough crept a little closer to D-enby County, the leaders of the Second Division, when a goal by Webb in the niinety-ffourth rmmu'te made the score 2-1. With the crowd dwindling and every fair-minded spectator agreeing that a draw was a just 'result, Middlesbrough won a corner. Crossan curled the ball over the multitude in the middle, and Rooks, from a horizontal position in midair, hooked it towards the far post, Webb's head was in the line of fire, and the centre forward made no mistake. Jubilation. Congratulations.

The referee points to the centre spot. But wait. Is it a goal or isn't it? Protests. A linesman flag flutters. Consultation.

Finally a goal. Loose ends If the preceding account should convey the impression that the match was exciting to the last, discount the previous paragraph and read on from here. Middlesbrough, although, they tried hard and meant well had more loose ends than a bootlace seller, and did not seem inclined to challenge for the high ball. Although they did most of trie pressing, they found it difficult to pierce the firm Blackpool defence. When they did succeed in breaking through, Taylor was their stumbling block.

He saved two good attempts by Hiekton, and averted the danger when McMordie sent in a deceptive header. A fkek by Crossan met with the same fate. After nine minutes, Middlesbrough took the lead when Hiekton scored from a penalty after McMordie had been pulled down, but attempts to consolidate their gosition were brushed aside, lackpool spurned their advances, although not always legally. On two occasions, they showed that they have players who could do well in American football (not Association). Craven equalised after 23 minutes when he drove the ball low through a ruck of players into the left corner of the net.

Whigham was unsighted but he could not have made a better attempt to save. Appeared correct Middlesbrough relied on the long pass into penalty area to try to achieve results, and on the soft, greasy pitch these tactics appeared correct at first But when Black-pool moved upfield, their approach work was neat. Green's industry and cleverness although not rewarded, was dangerous. He was the most constructive player afield, but seemed to have little confidence in his shooting ability, except on one occasion when he brought Whigham to a fine save. Spraagon was a little unlucky when his shot was deflected on to the crossbar.

But Kear missed a chance to put Middlesbrough ahead again. A strange thing happened to his feet. It appeared that a conveyor belt had begun operating directly under the outside right, and instead of heading the ball, he fell flat on his face. Blackpool could have been excused for thinking that they had earned a draw, but after Webb's there was only lust enough time to kick off again. Middlesbrough had obtained the victory they reeded so badlv to take thorn touards promotion Whlcliam Mntrf-.

SrculOi necks- Sprasscrj Kcar. McMordie, Wobb. Hiekton, Crcan nLAChrOOL Tavlcr- AmiMd. BenUev. Cravrn.

Jamcg, Alcodc: Brown, Greeu. SudillcL-, Jolinslon, McPliee. Rclcrce Styles (Barnaley) The panel's choice A pools panel declared the following results of matches that were not played FIRST DIVISION Burnley Manchester City 1 Coventry City v. Queen's Pk. R.

Everton v. Arsenal 1 Manchester Utd. v. Leicester C. 1 Newcastle Utd.

v. Stoke 1 Nottlnxham Frst. v. 2 Sheffield Wed. v.

Leeds United I West Bremwich Alb. v. Ipswich T. 2 SECOND DIVISION Birmingham city v. Sheffield I Bury Bristol City Huddorsfldd Twn, v.

Blackburn Norwich City v. Derby County THIRD DIVISION Bournemouth v. Oritnt I Bristol Rovers Luton Town 1 Crewe Alexandra v. Cilllniham 1 Reading v. Barrow 1 FOURTH DIVISION Bradford City v.

Darlington Chesterfield v. Lincoln City 1 Doncastor Rovers v. Workington 2 Exeter City v. Wrexham 2 Peterborough United Aldershot 1 Port Vale v. Bradford 1 Rochdale v.

Halifax Town York City v. 5wansea Town SCOTTISH LEAGUE Division I Alrdric v. Partick Thistle 1 Clyde v. Dundee United Dundee v. Celtic 2 Hibernian v.

St Mirrcn 1 Raith Rovers v. Aberdeen 2 Rangers v. Arbroath St lohnstono v. Falkirk SCOTTISH LEAGUE Division II Cowdenbeath Brechin 1 Forfar Athletic v. Ayr United 2 Weekend's results and tables Carlisle By a Special Correspondent Carlisle United managed to scrape only a paltry four points i from their first eleven games this season.

After their victory 1-0 over Millwall at Brunton Park on Saturday one wonders what would now be their position in the Second Division if they had made a reasonable start to their campaign. Carlisle cannot now consider themselves serious contenders for promotion, but they can to a large extent dictate the fortunes of other challengers. Derny County, Middlesbrough, Cardiff and Crystal Palace are all due to visit Carlisle whence it is going to be extremely difficult forlihem to take even single' point paid early, misses by Possee and later Neil unmarked, attempted to sidefoot the ball gently into She net from 10 yards, allowing Ross to leap and smother the Ball on the line. It was MiHwall, however, who, with effective man-to-man marking in the atrocious wet and windy conditions, and with swift bursts in attack prompted by Weller, chiefly dictated a scrappy first half. Ross, playing with his right thigh heavily bandaged following an injury suffered in training, saved well from Jones and Dunphy while King faced comparatively little action.

On the one occasion when- King was" beaten, in the forty -second minute, Burnett1 headed a drive by McIImoyle'from under the bar. With the wind behind them after the interval, Millwall might Association SECOND DIVISION Carllsts Utd. MlUffjJI 1 ...1 Aston Villa, 1 ....2 Hull aty 0 ..2 Blackpool 1 ..2 Boolton 2 ...2 Oxford United .....1 Cbmrlton Ath. Crystal FaUce Middlesbrough Portsmouth Preston N.E, Postponed: Blnnlnsbim city Sheffield United, Bury Bristol aty Huddersfleld Town Rovers, Norwich (Sty Derby County POSITIONS TO DATE GoaLt P. A.

PtS 29 15 10 4 56 24 40 ol 17 4 10 53 37 38 oO 16 6 8 46 35 3H oO 15 10 7 45 40 56 oO 14 7 9 48 55 35 27 15 6 8 47 56 52 12 8 11 54 56 32 31 10 11 10 45 59 51 2B 12 6 10 40 51 50 oO 10 10 10 56 28 30 27 12 0 5o 2y aO Darby County CardlS City Middlesbrough Charlton Ath MilUfc-aii Crystal Palace Carlisle Utd Hull City Sheffield Utd Blackpool Blackburn Rvs Pormnouth Hudderffield Norwich City Pi ps ion Bcltcu Wands Bl mi ins ham Astcn Villa Bristol City Bury Oxford Utd Fuiham oi. 9 23 11 12 lO 39 57 30 XL 7 -4 0 zy 6 11 57 54 11 20 9 10 9 26 30 28 11 10 40 57 27 2S 8 29 12 a 14- a'J do si 9 13 28 40 27 30 11 12 28 59 25 7 16 37 60 21 6 18 23 46 18 8 17 2 5t lb SCOTTISH LEAGUE Ohislon I Kilmarnock i Hearts 0 Morton 0 Dunfermline Atli. .2 Postponed- Alrdrleoniaus v. Pnniick Cldr Dundee United. Dundee Celtic Hibernian v.

St Mlrren. Raith Rogers Aberdeen. Rangers Arbroath, St Johnstone v. Falkirk POSITIONS TO DATE Csals P. CclTlc 25 16 5 Kilmarnock 23 13 8 Eruirfermillue Ath 25 15 4 Rausers 22 3 4 5 A.

Pis 2 53 16 57 4 43 26 34 6 51 35 54 3 51 21 35 5 54 29 30 4a ob oU 9 45 40 24 6 30 30 24 10 3d oH Jo 31 50 1 11 54 45 21 9 24 36 21 10 26 36 20 11 58 41 1U J5 32 43 16 lb 29 44 16 21 46 10 17 27 54 fi at Mirrcn 24 11 Dundee Utd 25 lb Hibernian lO Alrdrle 25 Hearts 24 Dundee 2S Morten 24 Cljde 23 Partick 25 St Jchnstone 22 Aberdeen 25 Raich Rva 2d Fnlkirk 23 Acbrcath 25 10 nilODES CLP. Second limind Old Slrctlordlans a. Aldrxmcre NcrUi 0 Adwcnl 10, vtVnf.hiwc Amateurs 3 (iilio couuis as Leasee Rcytcn Amateur 1 Bramhall 0 AlimXR VW Ihird HornrJ: CJd 2. Old RMivi-lonlans o. Faurlk Itonnd Lanslon 0.

BwiJc; Becdere l. MANC1IESTFIL AMATKLR LK01K SaUord United 11, Btacklrj Un ted Springhead 4, Auslcrlands 1: Hulmc Lads 3. ltomiiey 2 LAVCASltlRK COMRINATIO Blackpool Mechs. 5. VlRftn Rc.ers 0 Clltheroe 3.

Btcup Borough 0, Lancaster C. 2, Burscough 3 Lacrosse NORTH OF ENGLAND SENIOR FLAGS. Second Round Replay: Uraisfon 4. Che i die 14. OF CGhAV JUNIOR FLAGS Semifinals: Old Hulmelans A 4.

Urmston A 1 (on South Manchester and Wjtheu-shawe's crcuudl; Cheadle A 9, Mellcr A 7 (cu Old HuJmelans ground). STOCKPORT CUP. Semifinal Cheadle Hulme school 1, Old Stcpfordlaus A 0. NORTH. OF ENGLAND LI JUE I Firjt Dirblon: Old Stotcrdlans Rochdale 7 Second Divifdon: Cffcrtcn 12.

Oldham and Wemeth 4: south Manchester and A 18 Heatcn Merse Guild Tlmd DUIsInn: Manchester University 1, Old Aldwlntann 0. dictate Carlisle United 1, Millwall 0. have been expected to change their 4-3-3 formation to a 'more aggressive attacking system Instead. Carlisle began to provide most 'Of the danger with McVitie -holding the ball inteffigentlly in midfield and Bajderstone working especially hard. Kitchener could be partly blamed for the goal in the sbrty-third minute.

For the first time he left McIImoyle completely unattended 12 yards out as McVitie took a fre kick to the right of the penalty bos. McEmoyle scored with m's head, sending the ball crisply past King msnt hand. Ross, apparency unsighted, made a spectacular save, diving to his left, when Burnett shot tough the crowded goalmouth, 'but Mill- waH had left, matters too late. With IS -minutes to go. Brown, the -substitute, replaced Bcellands without causing aiiy-'fresh anxiety to the now solid Carlisle defence.

Indeed Hassell. making a successful first appearance shortly after his eighteenth birdhday, might have added a second goal Instead of attempting to shoot from short range he passed to Murray, who was in an offside position. After the game Mr Benny Fen ton, the MiHwan manager, said: "I would have been unhappv even with a draw, so my feelings can only be imagined now that we have lost We had many more chances and territorially we were the better team." CARLISLE P.VITE0. Ross; MaraluirJ. Caldwell: Garbutt.

Passmenr. Hiel. Bartr.it, Murray Mcnmcyle, Balderstcne. Mtvitie. substitute: Brcdle.

MILLWALL. King; Burnett. Crlpps Jacks, Kitchener, Jones; Fcssee, Duanhy. Weller. Bolland, substitute: Brmm.

Holerec Hartkjj (WakeSelrl). Association TUtBD DIVISION 2 Brlchton HA' Hartlepcol Flymontb Arc. ...1 Tnnmere B. .,..0 SwindoQ Tra 1 Botberbjun CO Walsall 0 Tarqnay Utd. ITatford 2 Uaiufleld Twn.7j..1 Postponed: Bournemouth and Boscombe Athletic Orient Bristol Rovers Luton Twra.

Cmre AJescindra v. Clllixisfianj. Reading Barrow. Shrewsbury Town Southport. Stockport County, Barnsey POSITIONS TO DATE Swindon Watttrd Plymouth Bournemouth Lytcn Slcckport Torquay Utd Tranmere Rss Reading Northampton B-istol Rvs Earasley Barron Sonthport Walaal Rotherhtim Utd Mansfield Tn Orient Cre-ac Alex Hartlepool GUlinshatn Shrcftsburj Oldham i-.

50 18 29 17 31 15 29 16 2R 15 L. F. A.Pta 5 50 25 45 5 47 17 41 9 57 50 37 9 46 2B 3o 9 42 26 34 6 48 55 54 2B 12 10 ol 14 50 14 29 11 52 11 29 10 27 11 29 6 11 39 30 54 3 15 45 45 31 8 10 45 SB 50 8 15 49 4V 30 9 10 34 55 24 6 10 44- 44 2R 11 57 44 27 5 12 39 49 27 4 77 -15. 'Jf 28 11 27 11 8 10 12 50 5i 2' 9 15 32 56 8 8 11 33 53 24 7 10 10 31 3iJ 2 9 6 13 56 48 2J 12 12 28 t4 8 6 14 37 49' 2J 7 6 14 25 59 20 3 7 18 25 5Bj 17 30 27 27 28 2B 27 50 SCOTTISH LEAGUE Division nr' Pnnibarton 0 Qn of the Stn. ..2 a East File .1 Stirling AIU 1 Alloa Ath.

Stranraer ...1 Clydebank 1 Postponed: Cowdenbeath Brechin 'CiU East Stirlingshire Albion Roiera, Perls AthleUc v. A-vx United, Hamilton -Academical Bewick Rancers POSITIONS TO DATE uoais a Pi Stirling Albion. 26 20 Motherftell 24 20 Ar Utd 25 16 Alblcn 23 lb 3 56 22 45 2 2 7fi 15 i'i 5 4 61 22 5t 5 SO 5U 6--5 6 51 26 35 5 7 55 5 51 4 3 50 55 30 5 8 54 57 27 6 8 56 23 2b 5 12 40 47 4 14 37 51 22 11 30 59 52 Vt 14 37 58 Ki 6 14 29 50 IS 4 14 26 45 16 5 14 24 50 1 6 17 52 63 14 2 15 24 44 VJ 4 18 51 B7 Queen ol the Sth 25 14 i-c-iar Aia East Fife Eait SrMng Stranraer Queen Park D.iibiricu C.dohank Bcrwkk Riiss Hamilton Acads APcn Atli Riechln CiU 24 14 25 13 23 12 24 10 Hockey i rent's. da instcn 'i (Jul ted Slecl, Workiueton 1, Lancaster 7 Blackburn 1: Manchestrr YMCA 4. B1CC Prescct Marehon 3.

Fumcss 1 Vkkcrs Barrow 1 uuerstoa I Rugby Union INTERNATIONAL SLVTCHES. Ens land 22 France 8 (at Tttlckeuham): Scotland 0 Ireland 16 at Murjoyfleldi I WCVSHTRE, CHFSniTlE. AVD DK-TR1C1 Bury 24, Wlnnlnswm Park 5" Davenport 0, Brovshlcn Par 14; Ec La Salle OB o. Manaicsic Y11CA FurnefS 11 Ashton on-Mersey 3 Metro-Vlek b. Old Bcd'tna 5.

Old Josephians b. Pceitcn Grasshopper XV 0 Preston Gratshcprr-s 20 OlU 0 St Helens 6, Fvldc 5 South-port 0 Chester 18: Viewers Spcrt Club 44 MUK in 0 Waterloo 52. Birkenhead Park 5 WlhnsJo 11. GcElorth 5 Rugby League RUGBY LEAGUE CLP. Second Rounri: Warnnpton HuEdersJMd S.

Yeaterdm: Roclidalc Hornets 7 Bramley SaJford li. Worlemxton Town 5. NORTHERN LEAGUE. Wlsan o9. Doncaater 5 All otier sames poitpoMd a 'shrewd through pass from McNab.

Spavin steered the wide of Barron and the near post. But Preston generally lacked urgency, and their attacks were not sustained long enough to cause Oxford any serious embarrassment. Kelly, however, presented a picture of relief when, from a range of 25 yards, Shuker drove the ball no more than a foot over the Preston crossbar. Early in the second half a fine tackle by Heppolette kept Skeen at a safe distance from Kelly, and one by Ross foiled Thornley, who missed the -target toy inches a few minutes later. A header by the irrepressible Heppolette marked the opening of North End's offensive in the sixtieth minute, and in the sixty-seventh the equaliser Was scored.

Lee, easily the best of the North End forwards, dribbled the ball no more than a foot away from, the dead ball line before rfiootintr from what is known among disciples of Pythagoras as an impossible angle. Impossible or not, it was a goal, although inquiries revealed that the ball had entered the net off Barron's body. Two minutes from the end Lee took a corner kick, and Ingram took full advantage tf the hesitancy Oxford's defence. Names taken Shuker, Ron Atkinson, and Lee had their names taken Ifor contravening the 10-yard law. For the ine 'encounter in condition wWh rest, )t was a cominendably sport- must have made exorbitant demands on patience as well as on stamina.

Nobody could have expected a Teal classic in the mud, ana norxiay mus was disappointed, although it is not to be estimated why so many people imagine that "puddeny" pitches and entertainment are incompatible. It really is surprising what can be achieved by initiative and application-Teiid, of counse, by interest in the job. PRESTON NORTH END. Kellj: Ross, MdNab, rfewfclns, Heppolette: Temple, S5avln. Ingram, rcnlrhton.

Lee. OXFORD TJNTTEax Barron Beavon, Gladwin; Stnlbhson, Clarice, ALltlnsan Sloan, AtietosHi (G.J, SJtecn. Shulcer, Tnocnley. Substitute: Harrington for Thornley after. 67 minutes.

Sport in brief West Indians declare In their opening fixture in New Zealand against South Island, at Dunedin, the West Indians declared at 307 for eight, after Joey Carew had made 78. They then took the wicket of Bevan Congdon, a New Zealand Test player, with the last ball of the day, at which point South Island had made 15. Owen wins 1 Gary Owen (Birmingham) took five of Saturday's eight games in completing a 45-23 uin over Fred Davis (Liss) in their 73-fraine semifinal of the world professional snooker dhaimpionship at Stoke. favourite 5-4 on to repeat last year's victory in the Champion Hurdle. It does not look a very good price today but it could look wonderful value on title day of the race.

Opposition to him is noticeable by its absence, and if tilings go on as at present Persian War will certainly not be better than 5-2 on at Cheltenham After L'Escargot had won at Leopardstown on Saturday he was put up at 14-1 for the Champion Hurdle. Support was so strong that he is now only 10-1. He won convincingly at Cheltenham last March in a novice event but something would have to go wrong with Persian War before one could take his winning chance seriously Hris1 year. He, however, could be good value for a place. At Warwick on Saturday another of Persian War's possible Cheltenham rivals, Into View, is due to run.

He is a very 1 useful performer and will certainly be competing for place honours at Cheltenham. Coral Diver, who in! the opinion of his trainer. Fred Rimell, is tbe best four-year-old hurdler, will be seen in action at Kranpton on Saturday. He could be a banker for the "Daily Express" Triumph hurdle at Cheltenham; Five years ago, when Oxford United were still in the Football League's creche, Preston North End visited the precocious new arrivals and beat them 2-1 in the sixth round of the FA Challenge On Saturday Oxford belatedly made the return trip, this time for a League match, and once again they gave a good account of themselves before going down 2-1, For an hour, in fact, Oxford rode'' quite comfortably on the lead which they took after three minutes Preston for their part were dreadfully disappointing but spirit and honest endeavour were not sufficient to complete the task. In the last half hour a tiring Oxford surrendered their midfield mastery, and a freak goal put Preston halfway to a victory they did not really deserve.

On the other, hand, it would have hepn fniusttae tF Soark and Heppolette had been on the losing in the Cuptie against. Chelsea, and although it is as wrong albeit less hazardous ito covetmy neighbour's job as it is' to covet his wife, I envy those critics who can watch these bright young men every other week or so. They have everything skill, stamina, determination, ana intelligence. They also have a shrewd manager, and they belong to a distinguished club. What more could any player ask at the start of a career? One dav Spark and find the "big Ume." May they never forget what they nave oeen taught at Deepdale.

Smart play Oxford surprised Preston with their smart approach work, especially on the wings, and with their quicker appraisement of each situation as it developed. North End could neither think nor move fast enough, and when they did force a way into the Oxford fort, opportunities were rare for demolition, secret or otherwise. Atkinson, the Oxford left half and captain he was baptised Hon and for obvious reasons was rechristened The Tank in later life gave an all-round performance in a part made famous in another world of entertainment by Victor McLaglen and John Wayne. Atkinson was splendid, and he was given loyal and effective support. Sad it was that Oxford could not last the distance, but they did enough to feel that they had been robbed.

Oxford's goal was one from the textbooks. Thornley gambolled down the left wing and delivered a to Sloan on the opposite side of the field. Sloan turned the ball back' inside, Skeen nodded it down, and Graham Atkinson, brother of Ron, did the rest. Shankly, Beattie, Gallimore, thou shouldst have been playing at that hour. North End had need of thee Barron made a couple of good saves from Ingram, and after By RICHARD BABRLEEV ground, and everything appears in his favour in the Citv Trial Hurdle, which follows Highland WeddinE's race.

On Wednesday The Laird is due to run at Windsor in the Fairlawne Cliase. He is still 3-1 favourite for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, although beaten by Stalbridge Colonist in a muddling sort of race SELECTIONS NAP New Uskeanf, 3 30 Nottingham NEXT BEST Highland Wedding-, 3 Nottingham at Sandown. Stalbridge Colonist is 4-1 for the Gold Cup. The Laird has an easy task and is favoured by the weights. But it is the hurdlers who mil create chief interest tins week if the break in the weather continues.

Persian War. Into View, and Coral Diver are all due out. The champion hurdler, Persian War, goes to Wlnoanton on Thursday for the Kingwell Hurdle. As a result of the failure of Caro Bello in Ireland on Saturday Persian War has hardened from 5-4 against to at Cosford, and Mike -Bull in Cleveland on Saturday, Britain's selectors have about 18 candidates for their 'team for- the European. Indoor 'Games, in Belgrade on March a and a.

Britain have never sent a team as large-as this'. to the but there-are so candidates, who fulfil the requirement of jbeing either potential medal win-'' ners, or who would gain 'Useful that. -the British may, one 'of its to help finance. the project L-understand that the Midland are prepared to -sponsor, one member of-the team a Midlands' athlete; of course. -The likely to-be -on'1 selectors' list when they choose their.

team today are Bob Frith 60 metres), Colin Campbell (400 metres). Bob Adams (800 metres), Walter Wilkinson (1,500 metres), Ian Stewart (3,000 metres), Alan Pasco and Dave- (60 metres hurdles), Derek Boosey (triple jump), Lynn Davie's (long jump), Mike Bull (pole- vault), Jeff Teele (shot), Madeleine Cobb and Delia James (60 metres), Rosemary Stirling (400 metres), Sheila Carey metres), Christine Perera (60 metres hurdles), Barbara Inkpen (high jump), and Sue Scott (long-jump and hurdles). Sparkling, running Mrs the WAAA indoor champion," pushed, her way back into the list with; a sparkling piece of running In -the 60 metres. The sort of start she got on Saturday acts 'like a sledge- rri iiatnmer on tne rest as tneir beads came up sne- baa nait stride advantage. Her time, 7.4sec, heats 'by a tenth of a second the best by any athlete in Britain.

Boosey touched on. his best outdoor form in the restricting conditions created by the hanked' board at the end of the triple jump 'pit His best leap, 52ft was half an inch more than Martin. Sauer of West Germany, the best indoor triple jumper in the world, achieved at Cosford. AH' Boosey's other five jumps were beyond 50 feet, and one was of 51ft OJin. Hemery has put the 400 metres hurdles firmly behind him.

He is, within the restrictions of the English winter, learning the decathlon and concentrating on high hurdling as his international event- next summer. His start was bad the body did not seem LACROSSE Cheadle make no mistake By our Lacrosse Correspondent After three successive weeks of postponements, the North of England Lacrosse League fixture list is so congested that the Yorkshire and Lancashire game on March 8 has been postponed in order to accommodate the Senior Flags semifinal. Saturday's programme was curtailed, but fortunately the thrice postponed second round replay in the Senior Flags was Srushed, In the event the game Was an anti-climax. a 1 defeated Urmston 14-4, In the original drawn game, Cheadle just managed to equalise cm time. Oheadle.

made no such mistakes this time- out They established an early Mastery and kept it throughout. They led 34 at quarter time and increased this advantage to 7-2 by half time. attacks combined splendidly With accurate and fast passing and scored some smart goals even when closely marked. Urmston's defence Sirnply could not cope. Association FIRST DIVISION Chelsta 5 Sunderland 1 Tottenham 1 WolTer'tantn.

1 W. mm TJta 1 Liverpool Postponed: Burnley -o Minciiester city Coventry City Queen's paifc Racers', Everton v. Araentl. Manchester United v. Leicester city, Ne-wcasilc United stoke City.

Forest v. SouUiuztptoa. Sheffield Wednesday Leeds United West Broimrtch Albion Ipswich Town POSITIONS TO DATE L- A. Pts 30 20 a 2 49 21 48 ol 20 bO ly 4tj 29 17 8 65 26 42 29 16 8 5 58 18 40 30 12 8 10 55 41 52 51 11 lO 10 41 59 52 28 9 15 6 49 54 51 23 9 15 7 45 58 31 28 9 11 8 53 SO 29 Leeds Utd LtverpcrGl Everton iouuiampitjn West Ham Utd Toltcnhiim Shemelrl Wed rttu iu i 1.X t- -q-7 JJ7 Wclrerhatuptra .20 8 11 10 51 57 27 TjjSW'c1! 30 10 Manchester ctly 27 8 14 4o 45 25 10 4b 58 25 9 11 53 59 2d 9 12 52 55 25 9 11 26 35 25 12 11 33 41 20 9 14 26 2 IS a IB ol bo Xd 6 16 22 44 14 SLUderhnd 20 ilOKC Ultj KQtt.nshajrj '17 Leicester City 28 Queens Pmk Rqs do Ccftcntrj city 26 FOURTH DIVISION Brentford 4 Grimsby Twn. ,..2 Chester 4 Newport Cnty 0 Colchester Utd.

...1 Notts Countj 1 Postponed: Bradford CUt v. Darlington Chesterfield v. Lincoln Cliy. Doncoster Rovers Workington. Exeter City WrejJmm.

Peterborough United v. Aldershot, Po-t Bradford. Rod. dole v. HaWaN Tcwn.

York aty v. Swansea To-vn. POSITIONS TO DATfc Gran 29 16 5 DarltnjiMj 26 12 11 CJicstCp 50 15 9 Pi 8 50 52 57 5 36 1 35 8 55 57 55 fi 45 54 55 7 40 l3 oa 5 36 52 34 6 26 17 55 7 41 32 33 6 41 24 50 9 4a 55 30 7 51 27 50 9 44 4S SO CoLchciier utd 15 13 Lincoln City Workington Bradrord Ctty Rochdale Southend Utd Halifax Til Brentford Swansea Tn Scunthorpe Utd Newport Co Wrexham Port Vnf Chesterfield Peterborough Notts County Yrrk City Grimsby Tn Ecler CUy Bradford 50 12 10 2a 11 11 29 11 11 28 8 14 27 12 6 26 11 fi 2) 10 10 Zil 1U 3 11 27 31 28 11 31 8 11 12 36 47 27 8 00 ii6 9 10 21 27 26 5 9 12 29 56 25 fa 12 11 57 3fi 24 7 9 13 51 45 23 10 10 26 44 22 9 15 Si 511 21 6 8 14 3b 47 20 5 8 18 25 OR 14 a 1 4U BT ritTEMl LY MATCH Mi ted 2. Aberdeen NORTH LILN FRMHEIt LEAOL't. Bangor Citv 5, Boston United 2: Scarborough 2, Fleetwood 0 All other matches posiopcad FA A3MTEUR CUP: Fourth Round: EnJldd 1, Skehiiersdtte United 2, Levton-stone 0 Sutton United 5 Other names postponed CENTRAL LEAGUE.

BUclcpool 1, HLddersfleM Torm 7: Bolton Wanderers 0 West Bromwlch Albion 2 abandoned fallCv)CSter City 2 Coventry City 0. CIIFblirRB COUNTY LEAGUE. Rhyl 1, StiifToxd Rangers 5. Wit ton Albion 2, Elleimcre Port Toun 1 LANCASHIRE AHATUR LEAttUfi. North Section: Soutbport Amateurs 8 Thomleljih collejetOB 2.

Boltcn Ctompany GSOB 5, FuLwocd 3: Old Chorlelans O. Brc'Jrhtcn Amateurs Bcllon Wresda3e 3. Bacup and RawtenstaM GSOB 1. South Sect (cm. Whailey RruiEe 1, dd Bedlans Lynim GSOB 2.

Castleton Casoals 0. old MaicunLnns 1, Oldham Hulmelans 5 UNCASHJRL awUCiltSIilllt AJUAILUR, LEAGUE. Eaut Chcrllcn 2, Cheadle Hulme 2: Poynton 2. Hlxic-n 2 Manttc Ot West Fllxtpn 5 Styal 2. Fast Dldstmry 3: Meltor Stockport GeorclHTit Persian War a firmer Racing appears all set for a certain resumption later this week and a possible resumption this afternoon.

The Plumpton stewards will make an inspection at 7.30 this morning and are more hopeful than 1 am at the time of writing. Living only 20 miles from the course and with the glass dropping. I cannot believe we wilt set through the night without renewed rain, which must threaten the programme At Nottingham the stewards intend to make a 7 a.m inspection this morning, and regard the chances of racing an 75 per cent. I cannot forecast the weather for- that area and only hope thev are lucky. The Corporation Handicap Chase there will provide the best race of the dav if the meeting Is held.

Highland Wodding. winner over four miles at Newcastle just before the freeze-up. and Vultrtx, another fairly recent winner, are the two too weights, and appear to have the best chances. Highland Wedding's return to form this season cs a sreat compliment to trainer Tony Balding, and I expect another victory from thU 12-year-old. -New Liskeard likes heavy.