28 January 1922

A KNOCK FOR BATLEY

Featherstone are proving great footballers, and have now demonstrated that they have come into the League to stay.  After Wakefield, Hull Kingston Rovers, and Dewsbury, came Batley, and to all four, in successive home matches, the doughty Featherstone men have administered defeat.

It was not until fifty-five minutes had gone that the first score came. This a try by Morgan of Featherstone and it followed a most determined attack on the Batley line, beginning immediately after the interval.  Denton added goal points; but with twenty-five minutes to go, the issue was very much open, and when, Williams got over for Batley, just after he had missed a try by inches, Batley’s spirits rose. Gray, however, failed with the goal-kick, and the struggle began afresh.  A fine solo effort by Hirst, with Morrell in attendance, resulted in the latter scoring Featherstone’s second try five minutes from time, and when Denton kicked his second goal Batley were well beaten.

Batley did not deserve to lose by seven points, for their forwards were the cleverer in the scrummages. It was when the ball came loose that Featherstone shone and their tackling was particularly deadly.  The outstanding player was Hirst, and particularly good work was done Jones, the ex-Hunslet player, whilst Seymour again played with the utmost soundness. On the Batley side Carter shone brightly, and Kilby did some very smart things and was always game.  Robinson, at full back, also gave a convincing exhibition.

Leeds Mercury 30 January 1922