1st July….
The 2001 season came to an end for Hunslet Hawks today. Still suffering the fallout of the Super League rejection, a total of 37 players were used in the 18 games. Finishing 16th out of 19 teams, Hunslet did manage six wins and a draw and just avoided conceding 1,000 points.
Following the disappointing 1957 World Cup display, Great Britain played a game at Lang Park, Brisbane against Queensland. Geoff Gunney was in the second row, scoring a try in a 44-5 win.
2nd July….
In 2000, today was the end of Hunslet’s first season after the 1999 Grand Final. Expecting to be playing Super League, instead it was another season in the Premiership. The financial ramifications of the Rugby League’s decision to deny Hunslet’s place in the flagship league saw many players leave, and the shear turnover of players ensured it would be a difficult season on and off the pitch. From the previous season’s squad, only Mick Coyle, Shaun Irwin, Steve Pryce and Chris Ross played more than 20 games and Willie Swann was brought in and played 21. 45 players were used. Chris Ross scored 12 tries and 70 goals. 15th out of 18 teams with eight wins was their reward.
Of the Tour matches played today, the 1910 tourists played the second test against Australia in Brisbane. The Lions had won the first 27-20 and Billy Batten on the wing, Fred Smith at half-back and Bill Jukes helped the tourists wrap up the series 22-17. Batten scored a try.
1914 saw a trip out to Bathurst for a match against Western Division. Walter Guerin (1 goal) and Jack Smales were in the pack as GB ran out easy winners 42-3.
1932’s team were at Ipswich today with Les White hooking. The tourists won 19-2.
In 1966 Queensland were the opponents in Brisbane. Bill Ramsey was out of position at hooker and scored a first half interception try. He was also noted later for upending Metassa following his kick through. The Aussie laid prone as if badly injured but a minute later made a long, fast run!.
