then used,—peace to its catgut! At several matches succeeding, when goal was crowded by opponents, or swift shots came at the flags, within a distance of twelve feet, no one would deny the necessity of accustoming a special man to guard that portal?
A trained man at goal strengthens the confidence of the men out on the field, as infantry supports do the confidence of cavalry. A single long throw from the centre of the field, alters in a twinkling the face of the game, and may give an advantage to the home men, which no speed of leg can prevent before a strong attack is made. The art of stopping a home man’s shot or tip, is entirely different from any other play, and needs special practice as well as dodging or checking.
You may sometimes hear men who are good hand-ball catchers say “Oh! anybody can keep goal; I could catch any ball you throw, with my hand.” Let us tell you a personal reminiscence, which may serve as a warning to such ambition. A friend several years ago made just such a remark to us, and consented to try the experiment. The flags were placed only four feet apart: the first
