Willie Calder has safe hands for Bluff in close loss to Tokanui 1978

A penalty goal converted by Gus Dermody gave his side the win over Bluff at Tokonui in 1978.   In muddy conditions that suited the home side better and the fact that they were a heavier unit meant the Bluff forwards were worn down through constant defence of their line.

Jeff Gardiner kept kicking the ball downfield which meant the Bluff team had to constantly retreat and bring the ball back.  Tokonui used its driving play to dominate with Gus Dermody winning the main share of lineout ball for is team.  In saying this Roger Driver did win clean ball at the back of the line out for Bluff.
Bluff however, did have opportunites which were not taken and they were slowly worn down by the conditions and the opposition.
Full back for Bluff, Willie Calder played a grand game and his taking of the high balls was the major factor in why Bluff feared so well.
In spite of the bad conditions he did  not drop one ball much to Tokonui's frustration.
Chris Hini had a strong game at half back and Jeff Young played well outside him.
Scorers were:  Tokouni, Gus Dermody PG  (2)
Bluff:  Willie Calder PG (1)

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