Archive for category Rugby League
Rugby League Memorabilia Tips
Posted by in Rugby League on July 11, 2011
Collectors need to follow some specific guidelines for determining the value of sports collectibles as well as finding legitimate sources to purchase authentic rugby league memorabilia.
For the definitive collector, the wonderful thing about rugby league memorabilia is that it increases in value. If you are a collector of vintage souvenirs, your main concern is protecting them from damage and deterioration.
You probably started your collection with the intent to keep it forever, never expecting to sell even one piece. That is commendable, but things are always subject to change as time passes. Knowing that you can get a gainful return on the items you have collected is a comfort in uncertain times.
Any sports memorabilia autographed by former players or coaches is a good basis for starting a collection, and it is hard to make a bad choice as long as an item is legitimate. However, more value is placed on items actually used or worn by famous players, especially those who have died.
Of course, the most sought after rugby league memorabilia consists of items that were of limited issue and not expected to be re-released. Signed sports memorabilia from players who do not typically give their autographs is another highly attractive venue for collectors.
If you reside in England, Australia, France, or New Zealand it is easier for you to find rugby league memorabilia than in countries not famous for the sport. Buying items from countries where you do not live can be risky if these purchases are not protected in some way. Of course, eBay is one place where sales are ongoing for signed sports memorabilia. Read the rest of this entry »
International Rugby League Matches of Note – 1900-1950
Posted by in Rugby League on July 11, 2011
The First International Rugby League match took place on 1st January 1908 and the result was Wales – 9, New Zealand All Golds – 8 in Aberdare.
In 1907-08, Albert Henry Baskerville organized a group of New Zealand players for a professional tour to the UK against Northern Union opposition. Dubbed the All Golds they included Australian Dally Messenger as a guest and played a total of 46 matches including the first RL international against Wales. Although the All Golds led 8 -3 at half time the Welsh came back strongly and Dai Jones scored a try with only minutes to go. They held on for a famous victory although Dick Wynard of the All Golds missed a great opportunity
The famous Rorke’s Drift Test took place 14th July 1914 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
The 1914 Northern Union tour to Australia became controversial when the third and deciding test was brought forward against the wishes of the Northern Union who were struggling with injuries. They were ahead 9-3 at half time but were reduced to ten players, in the days before substitutions, during the second half when Frank Williams, Douglas Clark and Billy Hall were injured. The team defended heroically and even managed to increase their lead to 14-3 with a try from John Johnson (a forward playing on the wing in place of Williams) after a great break by captain and Price of Centres, Harold Wagstaffe. Sid Deane scored for Australia in the last few minutes but the Lions hung on for a famous victory. The score was Australia 6 Northern Union 14. Read the rest of this entry »