In1998, we played Skirlaugh in the Challenge Cup and a few players made their debuts as Hunslet built up to their Grand Final day in 1999. Richie Hayes, Chris North and Craig Richards all made their first appearances today and all three contributed to the run to the Final the following season, although Richie was the only one to play in the final.
A little further back, a forward called George Bennett made his first appearance today in 1919 at Halifax. He would go on to make 116 appearances over the next 7 years, His last first team appearance was in September 1925, although he was not struck off until 1933. He was also a professional boxer.
In 1928 Hector Crowther played for Great Britain Reds against the Whites in a Tour Trial. He scored a try and was invited to play in the second Trial 4 seeks later when, again he scored. Unfortunately it wasn’t enough to secure a place on the ship to Australia.
1936 saw George Todd playing at stand off for England against Wales at Craven Park, Hull. England lost 14-17.
1892, and Walter Goldthorpe and Jack Rathmell made the short journey to York to assist Yorkshire in their match with Kent. Walter kicked a goal as Yorkshire won 27-5.
1981 was the first time Hunslet hosted the new Fulham club, going down 11-12. Fulham, of course, are the forerunners of today’s London Broncos.
