John Polson shows not only his physical skills but his exceptional rugby acumen when Town played Central in 1976.....

Ken Nicholson reported in 1976 that Country Day was disappointing with the six sub-unions competing, never reaching any great heights.

Town won a lack lustre game against Central 16-9, Northern although losing most of the game got up and ended up winning 16-13 against Western.  And as previously reported Eastern beat Southern 22-7.
Nicholson reported that Don Hay  had his best game of the season for Eastern this round and it was disappointing that he would not be available for Southland as he is playing his best rugby.
Town gave a bumbling performance and never linked consistently with the forwards to the backs
and it was a sad sight to see Lin Booth leave the field with a broken collar-bone.  This would have left the Southland selectors feeling very anxious.
It was the rugby head of John Polson that saved Town, and it was Central's own doing through not making the most of opportunities, with dropped passes or bad decisions, such as not passing when needing to.
Town hung on grimly, and it was only the two penalty goals by John Polson that saved the day.
Although Town having had three wins for the season it really needed to go up a gear with some senior players looking very unfit.
John Steentjes put his heart into it and Sam Anderson also playing hard.
Barry Low and Murray Leach both had their moments and Trevor Tomlins at half back felt the pressure of his opposite, John Patterson.
John Ellis at first five eight had a fickle game and could not find Graham Spittle when a quick off load was required.
Full back Ross Mangles was his usual reliable self and Hec Mitchell was constantly trying to get his pack going but his voice seemed to fall on deaf ears.
Dave Saunders tried his best and Tom Fairburn stole two tight heads from town.
Town:  Lin Booth, Bob Barber (1), Graeme Anderson (1Con), Polson (2PG)
Central:  Ross Mangles (3PG)

Reference:  Nicholson, Ken.  Country Day Rugby Disappointing.  The Southland Times  June 1976.