23 December 1922

ROVERS RECORD

Bradford Easily Outpointed by Featherstone

Bradford were overwhelmed at Featherstone, where the Rovers put up their record score since they joined the premier league. At one time the teams were on level terms. This was when Crane had kicked a penalty reply to one from Wynard but this proved the visitors’ only score.  Before half-time Hirst had raced over twice, the goal kicks failing.  In the second half the Featherstone backs played delightful football, and the game almost resolved into one- long procession to the Bradford line, and Hirst scored another two tries.  

Mason, the new three-quarter, who was beautifully fed by Hirst, put three tries to his credit, one being the finish to a magnificent movement begun almost on Bradford’s line by Williams, who beat four men before passing.  Sidney Denton, the full-back scored, and Clements and Wynard completed the try-getting. James Denton converted three tries and Wynard one. Bradford were to be pitied before the close, for once ball became loose they were almost hopeless. The understanding of the Featherstone half-backs and the third line was almost perfect, and Hirst made a brilliant pivot. He had hand in three tries besides the four he scored himself.

The new men. Mason and Lorriman have proved Featherstone's greatest find since the club was promoted, and if they maintain this form the Rovers should have a grand third line. Williams showed that a week’s rest has done him good, and played his best game of the season. Clements and Haigh were the pick a grand pack and Bradford's six stuck well to their task but the third line made poor use of the ball.

Athletic News 25 December 1922