01 October 1921

LEEDS GET A SHOCK

Not this season have Leeds had such a hustling as the Featherstone forwards gave them in the first half. Up to half-time Featherstone were immeasurably the cleverer side. They led by seven points to five then, but if it had been three times seven they would have had no more than their desserts.

They were without J. Denton, who was injured in the Leigh match, and misfortune dogged them again, for just before half-time S. Denton was carried off injured. True, he came on later, but was no more than a passenger.  In the first half Hirst scored a great try for Featherstone, which Williams converted, and Williams also kicked a penalty. Ward got over for Leeds, Walmsley converting.

In the second half Hirst, who was the best three-quarter on the field, got over with a clever try. Williams failing at goal. Ward with a fine effort reduced Featherstone’s lead to two points, but Walmsley failed at goal. Then S. Denton, after a long spell Featherstone attacking, went over the line, but tried to make his way under the posts and was bored to the dead-ball line a certain try being thrown away.

Still Featherstone had the lead but not Iong afterwards the Leeds half-backs made a nice opening, and Ward, by far the ablest forward on the Leeds side, snapped the ball up and registered his third try.  Walmsley kicked the goal this time, and they held their three points lead to the end, and retired victors in a game in which they had had much the worst of the play.

They are not likely forget their experience readily, and the “babes” of the League are to be commiserated with on their bad luck, and heartily congratulated on their fine play.  M. Bowen the old Hunslet full back, made an excellent debut for Featherstone.

Leeds Mercury 3 October 1921