At Doncaster on 19th February 2023, no fewer than 11 players made their debuts. They were Joe Burton, Steve Crossley, Sam Hallas, Michael Knowles, Keiron Lawton, Adam Ryder, Aaron York, Danny Barcoe, Nathan Newbound, Jordan Bull, Dan McGrath, All but Knowles contributed to just the one season, but Michael went on to play in the promotion decider at Swinton, announcing his retirement after the game.
One other debut today was in 2017 when Joe Sanderson played at home against Newcastle Thunder. Despite kicking 281 goals for Hunslet, he only managed one today in a disappointing Hunslet performance.
In 1948, Hunslet finally overcame Widnes in the first round of the challenge cup. The first round draw saw us drawn away in the first leg of the two leg tie. Joe Britton scored a try, but it was not enough to avoid a 3-5 reverse. Back to Parkside for the second leg. Walt Burnell scored a try in the 10th minute of extra time and Des Clarkson kicked one of seven penalty attempts as the score was reversed for Hunslet to win 5-3 and the tie was drawn. Challenge Cup “Rule no. 9” stated that the team drawn first out of the hat would decide on the venue, and of course they selected Naughton Park. The match report states that Hunslet’s forwards gave a magnificent display defending a first half Ted Carroll try. and they become the first side to win at Widnes that season. It must be said, though, that Widnes had a try disallowed and missed 5 goal kicks.
Two other points of note. In 1901, Herbert Place made his debut at stand off over at Fartown. But it was to be as a full back that he made his name, making 442 appearances between 1901 and 1920 and playing in six cup finals, He gained two Yorkshire caps.
And in 1952, Brian Lawrence Gabbitas signed on the dotted line from Hunslet Supporters for £300. We’ll cover his career when he make his debut later in the year.
