1924 Auckland Rugby League season

April 2020 The 1924 season of Auckland Rugby League was its 15th. Marist won the first grade championship for the first time in their history after defeating Devonport in the final by 20 points to 17 in front of a club record crowd of 17,000 at Carlaw Park.Marist Win Final Replay/Twenty Points to Seventeen/Devonport Just Beaten 6 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18826 1924-09-29 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240929.2.12.1 2019-09-09 While City won the Roope Rooster competition for the 4th time. 1923 16th Auckland Rugby League season 1924 1925 News Leys Institute were a 6th grade side and were affiliated with the Ponsonby club. Team1st Grade2nd Grade3rd Grade4th Grade5th Grade6th Grade A6th Grade BTotalPonsonby United11121107Richmond Rovers11111117City Rovers11110217Manukau Rovers01111116Newton Rangers11011105Marist Old Boys11010115Athletic10101115Ellerslie United11011015Māngere United11110004Devonport United11110004Parnell00110114Otahuhu Rovers01101003United Suburbs01110003Kingsland Rovers01100002New Lynn00101002Point Chevalier00101002Takapuna00010001Coromandel Old Boys00100001Northcote & Birkenhead Ramblers00001001Leys Institute (Ponsonby)00000101Total91214131010775 First grade competition At a Management Committee meeting on 9 April, the Mangere United team, and Ellerslie clubs who had requested to enter senior teams in the First Grade competition were accepted, bringing the total number of teams to nine. The Mangere team registered its colours and green and black. The suggested format was one where after the first round the top six teams would continue while the bottom three teams would have other matches arranged for them.Management Committee 8 Auckland Star LV 86 1924-04-10 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240410.2.136.1 2019-09-04 However all nine teams remained in the grade until the end of the season. The Mangere United team was a combined team from the Manukau and Mangere clubs. Both clubs retained their own identity in the junior grades. On the opening day of the season all four First Grade matches were played on Carlaw Park. The junior matches on the same day were postponed as the railway workers were on strike and there was no way for the players to reach the outer suburban grounds which were used for matches in these grades. Lou Brown transfer issue thumb|left|Lou BrownLou Brown, the New Zealand international had played for Newton Rangers in 1922 and 1923 however at the end of the season he moved to England to play for Wigan. He had been granted a release by Newton and New Zealand Rugby League. Upon his return he wished to play for the City Rovers club and he turned out for them despite being told by the Auckland Rugby League that he was not eligible to play for them. City were adamant that he had been fully released and could play for any team. The New Zealand Rugby League Council supported the decision but Brown played anyway. He was subsequently suspended for 3 matches. City took the extraordinary step of withdrawing its team from the competition and they defaulted their Round 9 match with Mangere United.Manukau Change Over, 8 Auckland Star LV 165 1924-07-14 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240710.2.74 2020-03-26 On 18 July Newton held a special board meeting and agreed to grant Brown a transfer and thus the issue was finally settled. Manukau Rovers club switches to rugby union The entire Manukau Rovers club switched to rugby union after a dispute with Auckland Rugby League. The issue arose after one of their players (King) was suspended for four playing Saturdays. He had been suspended because he was registered with the Manukau club but "suddenly joined, or played, for the Māngere United team without having been granted a transfer". An opposing team had protested and King had in the meantime moved back to the Manukau club. The Manukau club took exception to the decision and refused to play any of its six teams in the following grades: Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth A, and Sixth B. It then went a step further by switching the entire club to rugby union with the Auckland Rugby Union accepting them.Manukau Change Over/The Reason Why/Exception Taken to League's Ruling 5 Auckland Star LV 162 1924-07-10 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240710.2.74 2020-03-26 The Secretary of the club, C.J, Williams disputed the way the ARL had handled the matter and several of the facts in a letter to the Auckland Star. The ARL Chairman, Mr. W. Hammill replied to the letter "that the matters contained therein were hardly correct".Why Manukau Changed Over/Management Criticised/Unsatisfactory Decisions 5 Auckland Star 55 164 1924-07-12 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240712.2.20 2020-03-26 United Suburbs club formation At the Auckland Rugby League meeting of April 2 the affiliation of the United Suburbs club was approved. Their club colours were gold with a black badge.League Football 12 Auckland Star, Volume LV, Issue 80 1924-04-03 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240403.2.173 2022-10-05 Two weeks later at the management committee meeting their colours were registered however they were now maroon and gold.The League Game/Management Committee 14 New Zealand Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18687 1924-04-17 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240417.2.154.1 2022-10-05 New Lynn club formation A club was also formed at New Lynn in early March. They only lasted until around 1930 however and are not the present day New Lynn Stags club. They played around the Kelston area opposite the present day Kelston Shopping Centre, possibly at the site of present day Kelston Girls College. At their formation meeting the Auckland chairman, Mr. W.J. Hammill was present along with A. Powell from the New Zealand Council (rugby league). The following officers were elected:- Patron, hon. Christopher James Parr; vice patron, Mr. Albert Crum, senr.; president, Mr. C.F. Gardiner; secretary and delegate to the league, Mr. Colin Crum; treasurer, Mr. Mathieson; auditor, Mr. Ivan Culpan; management committee, Messrs. T. Brown and R. Brown, in addition to the chairman, secretary and treasurer. They decided to enter three teams in junior grades though ultimately fielded 2 sides in the 3rd and 5th grades. The Tahurangi/Crum Park in nearby Titirangi is named after Albert Crum who was a well known figure in the New Lynn pottery industry. Club Formed At New Lynn 6 New Zealand Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18652 1924-03-07 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240307.2.27 2023-10-05Tahurangi/Crum Park Auckland Council https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/parks-recreation/Pages/park-details.aspx?Location=2647 2023-10-05 Goals from marks At the ARL Management Committee meeting on 13 August, the Referee's Association reported that goals from marks would no longer be permitted. This rule would come into place from Saturday, 23 August onwards. Monteith Shield (1st grade championship) A record nine teams competed in the First Grade competition in 1924 with the addition of the Māngere United and Ellerslie senior teams. Mangere had their colours registered as green and black. It was initially decided that after the first round the bottom three teams would drop out of the competition for the second round. At the end of the first round these teams were Māngere United, and Ellerslie. However, this was later rescinded and all teams remained in the competition until the end of the season. Monteith Shield standings TeamPldWDLFAPtsMarist Old Boys15111334514723Devonport United16111427219123City Rovers1583420110719Athletic1582525720618Ponsonby United1580718814416Māngere United1450915425210Richmond Rovers1650119719410Newton Rangers15501013325010Ellerslie153111952107 Monteith Shield fixtures Round 1 thumb|The North Shore senior side photographed in front of the main stand during the season. Captain, Bert Laing is holding the ball. 26 April 1:30 Ponsonby 24–5 Four Senior Matches/Interesting Contests 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18694 1924-04-28 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240428.2.7.2 2019-09-09 Māngere Cooke, Moore, J Shirley, Mormon, Wilfred McNeil, Ivan Littlewood Frank Delgrosso 2 Frank Delgrosso Lipscombe Jack Pai Carlaw Park 1 4,500 Bert Gallagher 26 April 3:15 City 17–2 Newton Vic Thomas, C Mitchell, George Davidson, Ben Davidson 2 Mike Flynn Alan Clarke Carlaw Park 1 4,500 Les Bull 26 April 3:15 Athletic 6–2 Richmond Wilson Hall, Austin Trevor Hanlon Carlaw Park 2 4,500 Walter Ripley 26 April 1:30 Marist 10–7 Four Senior Matches/Interesting Contests/Junior Games Postponed 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18694 1924-04-28 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240428.2.7.2 2019-09-09 Ellerslie Sweeney, Edmund Carroll John Lang John Lang Bryan Peebles Peebles Carlaw Park 2 4,500 T Hill Round 2 thumb|Andrew (Jim) O'BrienJim O'Brien debuted for Marist. He had previously played for the New Zealand national rugby team in 3 matches in 1922. Baden Foss went off with an injury to his nose and a cut eye and was replaced by Jim Stormont, with his brother Bill Stormont moving into Foss's position in the backline. Jim Rukutai made his first appearance in a jersey for two years when he played for Mangere, who he was coaching. He had only played a handful of times since 1919 and was aged about 45. Despite his age he played well, scoring two of their three tries. 3 May 3:00 City 20–2 Good Games on Saturday/Improved Form Shown/City Defeats Marist 10 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18700 1924-05-05 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240505.2.146 2019-09-05 Marist Maurice Wetherill, George Davidson, Hec McDonald, Ben Davidson Mike Flynn, Selby Crewther Arthur Sutton Ben Davidson Jim O'Brien (1 mark) Carlaw Park 1 6,000 Walter Ripley 3 May 3:00 Ponsonby 18–3 Good Games on Saturday/Improved Form Shown 10 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18700 1924-05-05 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240505.2.146 2019-09-05 Newton Hector Cole, Frank Delgrosso, Ivan Littlewood, Dooley Moore Frank Delgrosso 3 Wally Somers Carlaw Park 2 6,000 A Saunders 3 May 3:00 Devonport 26–16 Ellerslie Alf Harper, Norman Veart 2, Norton, Harry Douglas, Alex Godick (obstruction try) Alf Harper 2, Neville St George, Alex Godick Baker 2, Peebles, G Slater Brien H Wynn Devonport Domain Bert Gallagher 3 May 3:00 Richmond 16–11 Mangere Parkes 2, Campney, McMillan McDonald Avery M Paul, Jim Rukutai 2 Lou Wilson jun. Auckland Domain Billy Murray Round 3 thumb|Charles GregoryIn the match at Devonport Domain between Devonport and City, Ben Davidson the City centre three quarter, was knocked unconscious and had to be taken to hospital. It was reported days later that his condition was not reported as serious. City had a bye the following weekend and he returned to play in Round 5. Neville St George and Alf Townsend were ordered off in the same match. They were the two hookers and there had been issues with the scrum with referee Les Bull having enough and giving them their marching orders. Stan Webb and Bert Laing both made their first appearances of the year for Devonport. Charles Gregory debuted for Marist at fullback and played a good game, converting both of their tries. He had played 12 games for Auckland rugby union team in 1922 and 1923 before switching codes, though he had played some rugby league before that. Gregory would go on to play over 80 games for Marist becoming one of their all time leading scorers and represented New Zealand on 40 occasions. 10 May 3:00 Marist 10–3 Marists Beat Ponsonby 10 Auckland Star LV 111 1924-05-12 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240512.2.100 2019-09-05 Ponsonby Bernard Sweeney 2 Charles Gregory 2 R Cook Carlaw Park 1 3,000 Billy Murray 10 May 3:00 Richmond 6–0 A Win for Richmond 10 Auckland Star LV 111 1924-05-12 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240512.2.100 2019-09-05 Newton Unknown, Jack Campney Carlaw Park 2 3,000 McCowatt 10 May 3:00 Athletic 14–6 Mangere Again Beaten 10 Auckland Star LV 111 1924-05-12 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240512.2.100 2019-09-05 Mangere George Yardley 2, Young, Graham Craddock Dufty Jim Rukutai, M Paul Victoria Park Bert Gallagher 10 May 3:00 Devonport 2–2 Surprise for City 10 Auckland Star LV 111 1924-05-12 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240512.2.100 2019-09-05 City Bert Laing Vic Thomas Devonport Domain Les Bull Round 4 Two matches were postponed in Round 4 as the league decided that they wanted the #1 field in the best possible condition for the exhibition match between City Rovers and Marist Old Boys of Christchurch. The weather had been particularly poor in the lead up with the previous weekend seeing all football in Auckland cancelled. These postponed matches were unique in that they were eventually played 10 days later on a Tuesday morning at 9.30am. This would surely be one of the only times a senior match had been played on a working weekday morning in the competitions history.Postponed Club Matches/Played This Morning/Marists and Athletics Draw/Ellerslie Brings Off a Surprise 7 Auckland Star 55 130 1923-06-03 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240603.2.109 2019-09-05 In Richmond's game at Devonport Domain, their centre Jack Campney broke his rib in the first half and a local doctor sent him to hospital for treatment. 24 May 3:00 Mangere 35–10 Club Competitions/Two Senior Matches 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18715 1924-05-26 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240526.2.8.2 2019-09-05 Newton Lou Wilson jun. 3, Jack Pai, Jim Rukutai, P Tutaki 2, M Paul 2 Lou Wilson jun. 2, L Moyle, M Paul Lindsay, Wally Somers Clarrie Polson 2 Carlaw Park 2 William Mincham 24 May 3:00 Devonport 13–7 Richmond G Smith, Stan Webb, Harry Douglas Bert Laing Bert Laing Ray Hyland McDonald 2 Devonport Domain Walter Ripley 24 May 1:45 Marist PPD Athletic Carlaw Park 1 Leonard Neild 24 May 1:45 Ponsonby PPD Ellerslie Carlaw Park 2 Bert Gallagher Round 5 thumb|George GardinerGeorge Gardiner debuted for Marist. He had played rugby union for the Māori Pioneer Battalion side in 1918-19 and for the Bay of Plenty rugby team. In rugby league he went on to represent Auckland 4 times and New Zealand 21 times on their 1926 tour of England. In the early 1930s he moved to Australia to emabark on a professional wrestling career. After the outbreak of World War 2 he enlisted but was killed fighting in Libya. 31 May 3:00 Devonport 6–0 Several High Scores/Devonport Beats Ponsonby/Loose Forward Play 10 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18724 1924-06-02 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240602.2.133.3 2019-09-05 Ponsonby Bert Laing, Alf Scott Carlaw Park 1 3,000 Bert Gallagher 31 May 3:00 Marist 26–2 Richmond Jim O’Brien 2, W Kirkland 2, Bill Stormont, John Lang Jim O'Brien, Charles Gregory 2, W Kirkland Butler Carlaw Park 2 3,000 Leonard Nield 31 May 3:00 Athletic 33–23 Newton Austin 2, Craddock Dufty 2, Wilson Hall 2, Woolley Craddock Dufty 6 R Callaghan, Clarrie Polson, J Biggs, Robert Stack, John Wareing Clarrie Polson 2, John Wareing 2 Victoria Park 1 T Hill 31 May 3:00 City 32–0 Several High Scores 10 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18724 1924-06-02 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240602.2.133.3 2019-09-05 Ellerslie Ben Davidson, Nelson Bass, Selby Crewther 2, Alf Townsend, Maurice Wetherill 2, George Davidson Selby Crewther 3, Alf Townsend Auckland Domain 3 McCowatt Round 4 postponed matches The postponed games were played on the Tuesday morning of King's Birthday and given the 9:30am start time and other attractions drew a decent crowd of 2,000. 3 June 9:30 Marist 8–8 Postponed Club Matches/Played This Morning/Marists and Athletics Draw 7 Auckland Star 55 130 1924-06-03 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240603.2.109 2019-09-05 Athletic Bernard Sweeney, Hec Brisbane Charles Gregory Woolley, Ernie Herring Wilson Hall Carlaw Park 1 2,000 A Saunders 3 June 9:30 Ellerslie 6–5 Postponed Club Matches/Played This Morning/Ellerslie Brings Off a Surprise 7 Auckland Star 55 130 1924-06-03 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240603.2.109 2019-09-05 Ponsonby Brien, Murray John Shirley John Shirley Carlaw Park 2 2,000 Taylor Round 6 The match played at Ellerslie Reserve between Richmond and Ellerslie was the first senior match played there since 1912. 21 June 2:45 Devonport 16–15 Competitions Continued/Devonport Just Win 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18742 1924-06-23 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240623.2.8.1 2019-09-05 Athletic Bert Laing, Jim O'Brien, Stan Webb, Norman Veart Bert Laing, Alf Scott Craddock Dufty, Bert Avery (obstruction try), Graham Craddock Dufty 3 Carlaw Park 1 A Saunders 21 June 2:45 Ponsonby 14–2 Competitions Continued/Ponsonby Defeats City 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18742 1924-06-23 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240623.2.8.1 2019-09-05 City Frank Delgrosso, H Godley Frank Delgrosso 2 Frank Delgrosso 2 Nelson Bass Carlaw Park 2 Les Bull 21 June 3:00 Marist 44–3 Competitions Continued/Devonport Just Win/Ponsonby Defeats City 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18742 1924-06-23 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240623.2.8.1 2019-09-05 Mangere Jim O'Brien 2, Bernard Sweeney, Mick Sherlock, George Gardiner, Jim Stormont, Hec Brisbane, John Lang 2, B Keary Jim O'Brien, George Gardiner 3, Hec Brisbane, John Lang George Gardiner Arthur Ansell Victoria Park 21 June 3:00 Richmond 5–0 Ellerslie Unknown x 1 Unknown x 1 Ellerslie Reserve Round 7 thumb|left|Lou BrownReferee Bill Murray was refereeing his 50th first grade match in the clash between Devonport and Mangere at the Devonport Domain. He became only the second referee to achieve this feat after Archie Ferguson 2 years earlier. There was controversy in the match between City Rovers and Richmond as the City team fielded Lou Brown who had not been granted clearance by either Auckland Rugby League or New Zealand Rugby League. Brown had previously played for Newton and had been released to play for Wigan in England. After returning he wanted to turn out for the City club but Newton claimed that he had been released on the grounds that he would return to play for them alone. Brown was later suspended for 3 matches before rejoining the Newton team for their match against Marist. John Coffey Bernie Wood Auckland 100 Years of Rugby League 1909–2009 77–78 Huia Publishers 2009 The match between Marist and Newton at the Auckland Domain was played in a "sea of mud" and within a few minutes Newton halfback Clarrie Polson after he received a bad kick and had to go off. George Gardiner had a big game scoring 3 tries and converting 4 tries. Bill Te Whata played his first game of rugby league for two seasons when he turned out for Athletic in their 14-5 win over Ellerslie. He had tried several times to be reinstated into rugby union with the case being controversial as the New Zealand Rugby Union contended that he had been paid to play, however it was later clarified that the money he received was from the New South Wales rugby league, not the New Zealand Rugby League. A month later he debuted for New Zealand in their series with England. 28 June 2:45 City 32–7 Four Easy Victories/Games Played in Mud 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18748 1924-06-30 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240630.2.9.6 2019-09-09 Richmond Lou Brown 3, Selby Crewther, Harry Hawkes 2, George Cargill, Ben Davidson Selby Crewther 4 Whittington Butler 2 Carlaw Park 1 Robert A Bovaird 28 June 2:45 Athletic 14–5 Ellerslie Jack McGregor 2, Woolley, Joe Hadley George Yardley Andrews Hettet Carlaw Park 2 Percy Rogers 28 June 2:45 Marist 41–3 Four Easy Victories/Marists Outclass Newton/Games Played in Mud 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18748 1924-06-30 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240630.2.9.6 2019-09-09 Newton W Kirkland 2, Hec Brisbane 2, George Gardiner 3, Jim Stormont, Baden Foss, Mick Sherlock, Jim O'Brien George Gardiner 4 Dick Stack Auckland Domain 1 T Hill 28 June 2:45 Devonport 24–3 Mangere Charles Hand, Alex Godick, Harry Douglas 2, Bert Laing, Norman Veart Julius Laing, Alf Scott Julius Laing M Paul Devonport Domain Billy Murray Round 8 The match between Māngere and Ellerslie was the first ever rugby league match played at present day Ferguson Park in Onehunga. 5 July 2:45 Athletic 6–6 The Club Competitions/Athletic and City Draw 10 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18754 1924-07-07 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240707.2.147.1 2019-09-09 City Bill Te Whata, George Yardley Ben Davidson 2 Carlaw Park 1 Billy Murray 5 July 2:45 Ponsonby 11–6 The Club Competitions/Ponsonby Beat Richmond 10 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18754 1924-07-07 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240707.2.147.1 2019-09-09 Richmond Ward, Ivan Littlewood, J Shirley Frank Delgrosso Butler, Redwood Carlaw Park 2 Les Bull 5 July 2:45 Mangere 18–10 The Club Competitions 10 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18754 1924-07-07 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240707.2.147.1 2019-09-09 Ellerslie Unknown 18 points Unknown 10 points Manukau 3 (Ferguson Park, Onehunga) Walter Ripley 5 July 3:00 Devonport WBD–LBD Newton Devonport Domain Leonard Nield Round 9 City defaulted their match against Mangere United in protest at the decision to not allow Lou Brown to register for the club after returning from England. 12 July 2:45 Marist 37–0 Devonport Outclassed/Marist Bros’ Decisive Win 8 Auckland Star LV 165 1924-09-14 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240714.2.117 2019-09-09 Devonport John Lang, George Gardiner, Baden Foss, Bernard Sweeney, Hec Brisbane 2, John Stormont George Gardiner 6 John Lang Baden Foss Carlaw Park 1 10,000 Leonard Nield 12 July 2:45 Ponsonby 15–9 Ponsonby Beat Athletics 8 Auckland Star LV 165 1924-09-14 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240714.2.117 2019-09-09 Athletic Thomas McClymont, Len Ward, George Mormon Frank Delgrosso Frank Delgrosso 2 George Yardley, Bert Avery, Len Mason Carlaw Park 2 10,000 Wally Ripley 12 July 3:00 Mangere WBD–LBD Devonport Outclassed/Marist Bros’ Decisive Win/Ponsonby Beat Athletics 8 Auckland Star LV 165 1924-09-14 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240714.2.117 2019-09-09 City Victoria Park 1 McCowatt 12 July 3:00 Newton 11-5 Newton Breaks It 3 Auckland Star, Volume LV, Issue 170 1924-09-19 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240719.2.181.45 2019-09-09 Ellerslie Unknown 11 points Unknown 5 points Victoria Park 2 W Hill Round 10 In the Athletic match with Richmond, Graham was ordered off for Athletic as was McMillan for Richmond. Richmond had lost William Whittington to a fractured right leg early in the second half and with the score 25–0 with 6 minutes to go they asked for the game to end and their opponents and the referee obliged. Aside from the score there was no individual scoring reported from the Ellerslie v Mangere game from the Ellerslie Reserve. 19 July 2:45 Marist 13–2 A Great Game/Marist Easily Defeat City 9 Auckland Star LV 171 1924-07-21 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240721.2.123 2019-09-09 City John Lang, Hec Brisbane, Bernard Sweeney George Gardiner 2 Selby Crewther Carlaw Park 1 7,000 Les Bull 19 July 2:45 Athletic 25–0 A Great Game/Marist Easily Defeat City/Athletics Win Easily 9 Auckland Star LV 171 1924-07-21 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240721.2.123 2019-09-09 Richmond Joe Hadley 2, Len Mason 2, Craddock Dufty, Bill Te Whata, Bert Avery Len Mason 2 Carlaw Park 2 7,000 Percy Rogers 19 July 3:00 Devonport 3–6 Ponsonby Down Devonport 9 Auckland Star LV 171 1924-07-21 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240721.2.123 2019-09-09 Ponsonby Monteith Frank Delgrosso, Thomas McClymont Devonport Domain Billy Murray 19 July 3:00 Ellerslie 8-19 A Great Game/Marist Easily Defeat City/Athletics Win Easily/Ponsonby Down Devonport 9 Auckland Star LV 171 1924-07-21 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240721.2.123 2019-09-09 Mangere Ellerslie Reserve Leonard Nield Round 11 The round 11 was perhaps the only year in all of Auckland Rugby League from 1909 to 1945 where every single senior team lineup was published in the match day reports. Twin brothers Lou Ernest Brown and Roy (Ernest) Brown played together in the City senior side for the first time. Lou typically played on the wing with Ernest at fullback over the following 2 seasons. 9 August 3:00 Ponsonby 17–4 League Championship/Club Matches Resumed/Victory for Ponsonby 3 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18784 1924-08-11 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240811.2.6 2019-09-09 Richmond A Watson 2, Joseph Peckham, H Goodley, Eric Grey Ivan Littlewood McDonald 2 Carlaw Park 1 Les Bull 9 August 3:00 City 35–10 League Championship/Club Matches Resumed/City’s Brilliant Backs 3 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18784 1924-08-11 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240811.2.6 2019-09-09 Athletic George Davidson, Selby Crewther, George Cargill, Nelson Bass 2, Lou Brown 3, Ernie Mackie George Davidson, Selby Crewther 3 Seagar, John McGregor Seagar Seagar Carlaw Park 2 A Saunders 9 August 3:00 Devonport 21–6 League Championship/Club Matches Resumed 3 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18784 1924-08-11 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240811.2.6 2019-09-09 Ellerslie Alf Harper 3, Walter Voysey, Stan Webb Alf Scott 3 Peebles, John Shand 2 Victoria Park 1 H C Taylor 9 August 3:00 Newton 12–11 Mangere Frank Moran, Jack Keenan Arthur Mansill Arthur Mansill 2 Tommy Pai, Lou Wilson jr., Jim Rukutai Tommy Pai Victoria Park 2 R McCowatt Round 12 16 August 3:00 Ponsonby 25–10 Ponsonby Defeat City 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18790 1924-08-18 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240818.2.11.1 2019-09-09 City George Mormon, Ivan Littlewood 2, Donovan, Joseph Peckham Frank Delgrosso 2, Ivan Littlewood Frank Delgrosso 2 Nelson Bass, George Cargill George Davidson George Davidson Carlaw Park 1 4,500 Billy Murray 16 August 3:00 Athletic 23–16 Athletic Surprise Marist 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18790 1924-08-18 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240818.2.11.1 2019-09-09 Marist Joe Hadley 2, Craddock Dufty, George Yardley, John McGregor Craddock Dufty 3 Craddock Dufty Jim Johnson, Bernard Sweeney, John Stormont, Short George Gardiner 2 Carlaw Park 2 4,500 Wally Ripley 16 August 3:00 Richmond 10–3 Devonport and Richmond Win 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18790 1924-08-18 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240818.2.11.1 2019-09-09 Ellerslie J Swift, Jack Campney McDonald McDonald Harrison Victoria Park William Mincham 16 August 3:00 Devonport 27-9 Newton Alf Scott 2, Julius Laing, Stanley Butland, Alf Harper, G Smith, Charles Hand Proctor, Unknown x 1 Tommy Taylor Moran Arthur Mansill Arthur Mansill 2 Victoria Park Robert A Bovaird Round 13 23 August 3:00 Marist 16–10 Marist Defeat Ponsonby 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18796 1924-08-25 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240825.2.8.1 2019-09-10 Ponsonby George Gardiner 2, Bernard Sweeney, W Kirkland George Gardiner 2 Frank Delgrosso, Wilfred McNeil Frank Delgrosso Frank Delgrosso Carlaw Park 1 9,000 Les Bull 23 August 3:00 Newton 11–5 Devonport Win Again 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18796 1924-08-25 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240825.2.8.1 2019-09-10 Richmond Arthur Mansill, Clarrie Polson, M Brown Arthur Mansill Ray Hyland McDonald Carlaw Park 2 9,000 Hill 23 August 3:00 Devonport 32–13 Mangere Alf Harper, Alf Scott, Tommy Taylor, Proctor, L Voysey, Bert Laing Alf Scott 3, Neville St George, Bert Laing, Charles Hand John Laing M Paul, J Pai, Lou Wilson jun. M Paul, Arthur Ansell Victoria Park 1 Percy Addleburt Lupton 23 August 3:00 Ellerslie 10–10 City and Ellerslie Draw 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18796 1924-08-25 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240825.2.8.1 2019-09-10 City J Crotty, G Slater Peebles, J Shand Ernest Ruby 2 George Davidson 2 Ellerslie Reserve McCowatt Round 14 Craddock Dufty converted 6 of Athletic's 8 tries on his way to the leading scorer title for the year. 30 August 3:00 Athletic 36–21 Athletics Beat Ponsonby 9 Auckland Star LV 207 1924-09-01 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240901.2.116 2019-09-09 Ponsonby Joe Hadley 2, Graham, Jack McGregor, Woods, Bert Avery 3 Craddock Dufty 6 A Snedden 2, Joseph Peckham, Ivan Littlewood, John Shirley Frank Delgrosso 2 Frank Delgrosso Carlaw Park 1 William Mincham 30 August 3:00 Marist 19–2 Another Win to Marists 9 Auckland Star LV 207 1924-09-01 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240901.2.116 2019-09-09 Ellerslie Reg Malloy 2, Jim O'Brien, Billy Ghent, MacDonald Bill Stormont Bill Stormont John Shand Carlaw Park 2 Wally Ripley 30 August 3:00 Māngere 5–10 Athletics Beat Ponsonby/Another Win to Marists 9 Auckland Star LV 207 1924-09-01 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240901.2.116 2019-09-09 Richmond M Paul M Paul Jack Campney 2 Trevor Hanlon 2 Māngere 3 (Ferguson Park, Onehunga) Leonard Nield 30 August 3:00 City 16–3 City’s Easy Win 9 Auckland Star LV 207 1924-09-01 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240901.2.116 2019-09-09 Newton R Purdy, Thorburn, Lou Brown, Ben Davidson Lou Brown Ben Davidson Arthur Mansill Victoria Park A Saunders Round 15 The win by City over Devonport was a competition milestone as it was City's 100th win in First Grade. They were the first club to achieve this milestone and did so in their 15th season and 149th game. 6 September 3:00 City 17–13 League Football/City Defeat Devonport 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18808 1924-09-08 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240908.2.12 2019-09-09 Devonport C Mitchell, George Davidson, Harry Hawkes George Davidson 3 W Sandham Alf Harper, Walter Voysey, Norman Veart Bert Laing 2 Carlaw Park 1 7,000 Leonard Nield 6 September 3:00 Newton 26–18 League Football/Newton Surprise Athletic 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18808 1924-09-08 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240908.2.12 2019-09-09 Athletic Watson, Alan Clarke, Thompson, Arthur Mansill 2, R Callaghan Alan Clarke, Thompson, Arthur Mansill 2 Joe Hadley 2, Craddock Dufty, C Timmins Craddock Dufty 2 Craddock Dufty Carlaw Park 2 7,000 Robert A Bovaird 6 September 3:00 Māngere 5–29 League Football/Marist and Ellerslie Win 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18808 1924-09-08 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240908.2.12 2019-09-09 Marist Daniels Wilson Jim Stormont 3, W Kirkland, Jim Johnson, Lyall Stewart 2 Bill Stormont, Jim O'Brien, Charles Gregory Bill Stormont (Ferguson Park, Onehunga) Percy Rogers 6 September 3:00 Ellerslie 11–7 Ponsonby A Dance, Peebles, Brien J Shand George Mormon Frank Delgrosso 2 Ellerslie Reserve Les Bull Round 16 Near full-time in the match between Marist and Devonport, Kiwi international Bill Stormont was ordered off. In the Newton match with Ponsonby a very unusual incident took place. L Williams for the Newton team was dribbling the ball down field and when he kicked ahead to chase, the ball went over the cross bar. He ran through to 'score the try' but the referee awarded a drop goal rather than a try. M Paul for Mangere scored on the stroke of full time in the corner to hand them the win 20-19 over Athletic. Richmond defaulted their first ever 1st grade match after a number of the players were reportedly injured or suffering from influenza. 13 September 3:00 Devonport 25–19 Devonport Defeat Marist 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18814 1924-09-15 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240915.2.7.1 2019-09-10 Marist Walter Voysey, Harry Douglas 2, Norman Veart, Alf Scott (obstruction try) Bert Laing 2, Alf Scott 2 Bert Laing Lyall Stewart, George Gardiner, Bernard Sweeney, Reg Malloy, Billy Ghent George Gardiner 2 Carlaw Park 1 7,000 Wally Ripley 13 September 1:15 Mangere 20–19 Wins for Newton and Mangere 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18814 1924-09-15 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240915.2.7.1 2019-09-10 Athletic Lou Wilson jun. 2, Jack Pai, Rau, M Paul 2 Norman Lipscombe Joe Hadley, Craddock Dufty, Jack McGregor, Draffin, Winkie Craddock Dufty 2 Carlaw Park 2 7,000 Billy Murray 13 September 2:00 Newton 17–12 Ponsonby Watson 2, Clarrie Polson, Arthur Mansill 2 Arthur Mansill L Williams Henderson, John Shirley Eric Grey 2 Eric Grey Carlaw Park 1 7,000 Hill 13 September 1:15 City WBD – LBD Devonport Defeat Marist/A Play-Off Necessary/Wins for Newton and Mangere 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18814 1924-09-15 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240915.2.7.1 2019-09-10 Richmond Carlaw Park 2 A Saunders Round 17 It is unlikely that the Māngere v Ponsonby match took place as the Auckland representative team was playing a match against the South Auckland team in Hamilton at the same time. Many of the selected players chose to stay and play for their Auckland club teams in important matches. The team that did end up playing in the representative match featured seven players from the Ponsonby and Māngere teams and there were no reports of a match between the two sides in any newspaper. A table published at the end of the season also only credited Māngere with 14 matches, not 15 which is what they would have played had the match taken place. 20 September 3:00 Devonport 47–21 Senior Club Matches/Devonport and Marist Win 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18820 1924-09-22 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240922.2.7.5 2019-09-09 Athletic Allan Seagar 3, Harry Douglas, Bert Laing, Walter Voysey 3, G Smith, Stan Webb, Alf Harper Bert Laing 2, Alf Scott 3, Stan Webb, Julius Laing Craddock Dufty 2, Weeks, C Timmins, Jack McGregor Craddock Dufty 2 Craddock Dufty Carlaw Park 1 Les Bull 20 September 3:00 Marist 34–17 Richmond Jim Johnson 2, W Kirkland, John Stormont, George Gardiner, Reg Malloy, Bernard Sweeney, Edmund Carroll Charles Gregory 5 Ken Hyland 2, Trevor Hanlon Trevor Hanlon 3 Trevor Hanlon Carlaw Park 2 Billy Mincham 20 September 2:00 Ellerslie 6–3 Senior Club Matches/Ellerslie Defeat Newton 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18820 1924-09-22 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240922.2.7.5 2019-09-09 Newton Brien, J Shand Thompson Ellerslie Reserve Hill 20 September 3:00 Mangere cancelled Senior Club Matches/Devonport and Marist Win/Ellerslie Defeat Newton 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18820 1924-09-22 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240922.2.7.5 2019-09-09 Ponsonby Manukau Alfred James Coulam Final thumb|Jack Kirwan Jack Kirwan debuted for Marist in the final. It was slightly controversial that a team in a significant match had signed and registered players midweek to play though not unprecedented. Many teams would debut prospective players later in the season and in particular they would trial (disgruntled) rugby players. Kirwan would go on to represent New Zealand and later serve on the Marist committee for many years. He scored a try in their narrow in, with Charles Gregory kicking 4 goals. For the losers Bert Laing scored a try and kicked 2 goals. Jack Kirwan's grandson John Kirwan played for the All Blacks in the 1980s and 90s. 27 September 3:00 Marist 20–17 Devonport John Stormont, Jack Kirwan, Billy Ghent, Reg Malloy Charles Gregory 3 Charles Gregory Bert Laing, Alf Harper, Harry Douglas Bert Laing, Alf Scott Bert Laing 2 Carlaw Park 1 17,000 Bill Murray Roope Rooster knockout competition City Rovers won the Roope Rooster for the 4th time in their history, defeating Ponsonby who were attempting to win their third consecutive title, in the final by 6 points to 5. Round 1 27 September 3:00 Richmond 11–7 Ellerslie Beat Richmond 6 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18826 1924-09-29 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240929.2.12.1 2019-09-09 Ellerslie Hunt, Echrafft, Ray Hyland Trevor Hanlon Clarke John Shand John Shand Carlaw Park 2 Les Bull Round 2 thumb|left|Roy Hardgravethumb|Frederick Bass (Richmond)Roy Hardgrave debuted for Newton. He went on to play 58 games for them, scoring 39 tries and kicking 6 goals before signing for St Helens R.F.C. in 1929. For St Helens he played 212 times and scored 173 tries. In 1934 he returned to Newton playing twice before joining Mt Albert for 2 matches. He then went back to England and played 89 games for York scoring 52 tries, and then joined Toulouse in France before once again returning to New Zealand. He then rejoined the Mt Albert side playing 22 games and scoring 1 try before retiring. He later coached Newton Rangers from 1941 to 1943. Frederick Bass debuted for Richmond and went on to play five seasons for them. 4 October 3:00 Devonport 5–3 Knock-Out Competition/Devonport Beat Marist 5 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18832 1924-10-06 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19241006.2.31.1 2019-09-09 Marist Alf Harper Bert Laing Jim O'Brien Carlaw Park 1 Les Bull 4 October 3:00 City 17–8 Knock-Out Competition/Wins For City and Ponsonby 5 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18832 1924-10-06 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19241006.2.31.1 2019-09-09 Newton Ben Davidson, Ernest Ruby, Harry Hawkes, Lou Brown Nelson Bass Roy Hardgrave 2 Arthur Mansill Carlaw Park 2 McCowatt 4 October 1:45 Athletic 21–2 Knock-Out Competition 5 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18832 1924-10-06 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19241006.2.31.1 2019-09-09 Richmond Joe Hadley, George Yardley, Bert Avery, Charles Webb, Ernie Herring Craddock Dufty 3 Sonny Hing Carlaw Park 2 Saunders 4 October 1:45 Ponsonby 24–5 Mangere Leonard Riley 2, Ivan Littlewood, John Shirley, Woodleigh 2 Ivan Littlewood, John Shirley Eric Grey Marshall Unknown x 1 Carlaw Park 1 Billy Mincham Semi finals 11 October 3:00 City 29–11 Knock-Out Competition/Interesting Semi-Finals/Wins For City and Ponsonby 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18838 1924-10-13 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19241013.2.8.1 2019-09-02 Athletic George Davidson 3, Ernie Mackie, Sandham, Lou Brown 2 Selby Crewther, W Sandham 3 Charles Webb, Ernie Herring, Joe Hadley Craddock Dufty Carlaw Park 1 6,500 William Mincham 11 October 3:00 Ponsonby 14–10 Devonport Dempsey, D Moore Frank Delgrosso, Dempsey Frank Delgrosso 2 G Smith, Walter Voysey Bert Laing Carlaw Park 2 6,500 McCowatt Final 18 October 3:00 City 6–5 City Defeat Ponsonby/A Strenuous Contest/Score Six Points to Five 5 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18844 1924-10-20 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19241020.2.34.1 2019-09-09 Ponsonby Ernie Mackie, Lou Brown Bill Walsh Frank Delgrosso Carlaw Park 1 2,000 Les Bull Top try scorers and point scorers thumb|left|Craddock DuftyThe lists include points scored in the First Grade competition and the Roope Rooster. Joe Hadley of Athletic led the league in tries scored with 12, while Craddock Dufty was once again the top scorer with 91 points from 9 tries, 29 conversions and 3 penalties. Devonport had a try and conversion unattributed in a match. While the match between Mangere United and Ellerslie won by Mangere United 18 to 10 had no points attributed to any player and the round 10 match between the same two teams had no points attributed to either team. It is possible that M Paul for Mangere scored more tries than the 9 he is credited with and more than the 3 goals he kicked. Top try scorers Rk Player Team Gms Tries 1 Joe HadleyAthletic1212 2=Lou BrownCity911 2= Bernard SweeneyMarist1411 3 Alf HarperDevonport1410 5= Ben DavidsonCity129 5= Craddock DuftyAthletic159 5= George GardinerMarist119 5= M PaulMangere129 8= Jim StormontMarist159 8= Harry DouglasDevonport148 8= J VoyseyDevonport98 8= George DavidsonCity158 Top point scorers Rk Player Team G T C P M Pts1Craddock DuftyAthletic1592830892George GardinerMarist1192110713Frank DelgrossoPonsonby16415140704Bert LaingDevonport146880505Alf ScottDevonport1451400436George DavidsonCity158710407=Arthur MansillNewton84850387=Selby CrewtherCity1341210389Joe HadleyAthletic12120003610Lou BrownCity91110035 Exhibition matches City Rovers played Marist of Christchurch at Carlaw Park in May and were victorious by 16 points to 9. At the end of the season Marist, who had won the First Grade Championship met City Rovers, who had won the Roope Rooster and the two teams played out a 10 all draw on Monday morning as part of the Labour Day celebrations to officially finish the season for Auckland Rugby League. On Wednesday the Marist side played Hamilton at Steel Park in Hamilton and won 28 to 3. City v Marist (Christchurch) On the call of time Mike Flynn, the City fullback, and a well known featherweight boxer from Australia broke his left leg at the shin when being tackled by a Marist player. The break was audible to the spectators nearby. He was taken to Auckland Hospital. Flynn had broken his collarbone in a game in 1923. J McCormick, a Marist forward was cut over the eye which required stitches and he was replaced by A Bateman. The match drew 10,000 spectators with the 'home' side winning through a four try effort with forward George Reid getting two of them. 24 May 3:00 City 16–9 Not Brilliant But Hard/Interprovincial Club Match/Victory for City/Visitors’ Great Pack 10 Auckland Star LV 123 1924-09-22 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240526.2.157 2019-09-02 Marist (Christchurch) Selby Crewther, George Reid 2, Arthur Sutton Selby Crewther 2 G Batchelor C Fitzgerald C Fitzgerald, E Brosnahan Carlaw Park 1 10,000 Billy Murray City v Marist ('champion of champions') The winners of the championship (Marist), and the winners of the Roope Rooster (City) met in a special fixture at the end of the season. It was the second year that such a game had been arranged and following the death of Bill Stormont the following year the game became an annual fixture which was played for the Bill Stormont Memorial Shield after it was donated by his family. 27 October 3:00 City 10–10 Marist and City Draw/After a Great Game 3 Auckland Star LV 255 1924-10-27 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19241027.2.21 2020-03-31 Marist Nelson Bass, Lou Brown Selby Crewther E Brown Reg Malloy, Jack Kirwan Charles Gregory Charles Gregory Carlaw Park 1 4,000 Lower grades There were 6 lower grade competitions in 1924 with the 6th grade split into an A and B division. Second grade thumb|Otahuhu second grade champions.Otahuhu Rovers won the competition after defeating Richmond Rovers 17-5 on September 6 in the final. Otahuhu had won the A Section and Richmond the B Section. The standings are incomplete with around 18 rounds being played. Athletic withdrew after 3 rounds, Marist and Ellerslie withdrew after 7 rounds, and the Manukau side withdrew when the Manukau board switched to rugby union in protest at a decision by Auckland Rugby League in July. Kingsland won the knockout final when they defeated Otahuhu 6 points to 3 on October 18. TeamPldWDLBFAPtsOtahuhu Rovers12110102142722Richmond Rovers8404038798United Suburbs65010622510Ponsonby United6402091238Devonport United4301041156Kingsland Rovers5203052344City Rovers6204060534Manukau220002004Māngere United200202250Newton Rangers200205850Ellerslie United2002014240Marist Old Boys200200660 Third grade (Hayward Shield) thumb|left|City Rovers 3rd Grade side which won the championship. Ernie Asher is seated on the left.City Rovers won the competition after defeating Devonport United 12-2 on September 6 in the final. The standings are incomplete with 16 rounds being played but with most teams only having 3-5 results reported. City also won the knockout final on October 4 when they beat Athletic in the final 18-8. Marist were listed to play in round one but withdrew after that, Victoria Cruising Club also entered a team but had no fixtures after round 2, and Kingsland B also did not have any fixtures beyond round 2 so have not been included in the standings. Manukau withdrew in July after their boards decision to switch to rugby in protest at a transfer suspension of one of their players. TeamPldWDLBFAPtsCity Rovers880011563116Devonport United4301366206Parnell860231193212Athletic330027176Richmond Rovers3300333106New Lynn6303259616Kingsland Rovers5302114386United Suburbs5203334874Coromandel Old Boys11102318482Otahuhu United5104326872Ponsonby United5005218760Māngere United50053271120Point Chevalier20022360Manukau300322310 Fourth grade The competition was played over 14 rounds. Ponsonby United B won the championship after beating Richmond 10-8 in the final on August 30. Ponsonby B had won the A Section and Richmond the B Section. Parnell won the knockout final when they defeated Richmond 3-2 on October 11. City withdrew after 7 rounds, while Takapuna, and Māngere United, and withdrew after round 11 rounds. The Manukau side withdrew in July along with their entire club which switched codes to form the Manukau rugby side. TeamPldWDLBFAPtsPonsonby United B5401237318Richmond Rovers76012611612Ponsonby United A55002116910Parnell6402286118Marist Old Boys6213124575Ellerslie United5203250284United Suburbs82061351154Takapuna61141191143Manukau311123113Newton Rangers210131362Devonport United410320152City Rovers301210271Māngere United20021040 Fifth grade Ponsonby won the championship after Newton defaulted to them in round 20. Marist entered a team but withdrew either prior to or after one week. The 1949 Rugby League Annual written by Bill Davidson states that Athletic won the A Section and Ellerslie the B Section. Richmond won the B Section knockout when they defeated Maritime. Devonport withdrew after 2 rounds and have not been included in the standings, while Manukau withdrew along with the rest of their club which switched to rugby union in July. The majority of match results were not reported so the standings are very incomplete. In round 5 it was reported in both the Auckland Star and the New Zealand Herald that Newton had beaten Athletic 82-0. TeamPldWDLBFAPtsPonsonby United870111434214Athletic8602011212512Otahuhu Rovers6402065428Richmond Rovers7403061678New Lynn83140361017Newton Rangers103070114916Ellerslie United6303127306Northcote & Birkenhead Ramblers6213028665Point Chevalier7106027542Manukau11000502 Sixth grade A Athletic won the championship when they beat City A 6-3 in the final on October 11. Two weeks prior City A defeated Athletic 5-3 in a 'semi-final' which forced the playoff for the championship. It had been Athletics only defeat of the season. Leys Institute scored their first try of the season in a 25-3 loss to Parnell on September 13. TeamPldWDLBFAPtsAthletic1716011772032City Rovers A850311201810Richmond Rovers960311193312Marist Old Boys7412125299Newton Rangers7304140666Parnell7205034354City Rovers B4202117334Manukau301213201Ponsonby United500504480Leys Institute (Ponsonby)8008081450 Sixth grade B Ellerslie United finished with a 12 win 0 loss season to win the championship. They scored 125 points and conceded 33, and were managed by Mr E. Chapman, and J. Poland. Ellerslie and Richmond met in the knockout final on September 20 but the result was not reported. Ponsonby seemingly withdrew after 2 rounds so have not been included in the standings. Manukau withdrew along with all their other sides when they switched to rugby union midseason in protest. TeamPldWDLBFAPtsEllerslie United12120011253324Richmond Rovers105141872811Parnell7313150377City Rovers7205134334Marist Old Boys8206136504Manukau320119294Athletic70070361080 House matches A series of house matches were played during the season between the following sides: Sharland and Company Kempthorne Ross and Glendining Palmer, Collins and Whittaker Unity and Leightons Clarke and Matheson Herald Mennie and Dey's Hayman's Limited Wisman's Limited Star Nathan United Printers (won the Morrison shield when Combined Printers defaulted to them in their one-off match) Combined Printers Smith and Smith Herbert Brothers Representative fixtures thumb|left|Ernie Asherthumb|Auckland v Australian Universities souvenir programErnie Asher, Edwin Fox, and Ronald MacDonald were appointed selectors for the season with Bill Davidson the coach and Henry Donovan the manager. Auckland played three matches against Australian Universities on 4, 7, and 14 June. In the first match Auckland defeated the University side by 15 to 7. In the second meeting Auckland again won, this time more easily by 17 points to 2. The visiting captain congratulated the Auckland team but made mention of the conditions by saying that “yours are certainly better wet day footballers than we are but this is to be expected when you realise that my club, Sydney University has not played on a wet ground since early in 1922 season”.Comments By Visitors/Captain and Manager/Hope for Dry Ground 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18730 1923-06-09 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240609.2.16.1 2019-09-09 They had their wish somewhat in the third match with much improved weather conditions and were able to come home strongly in the second half to draw the match 14–14 in front of 11,500 people. On 26 July in front of 20,000 spectators the touring England side defeated Auckland by 24 points to 11. In the curtain-raisers Ellerslie Sixth Grade B defeated City Sixth Grade B by 5 points to 2, and City Second grade defeated their Richmond counterparts by 8 points to 7. On the Wednesday following, an Auckland provincial team featuring Auckland players from the greater region including the Waikato region played England and lost 28 to 13 in front of 7,000 spectators. On 20 September an Auckland team played South Auckland in Hamilton and were defeated easily by 21 points to 5. The team was supposed to be a full strength Auckland team but as the club competition was entering its key stages many of the first team players remained behind to play for their clubs. As a result, many players from the struggling Newton team made the trip to Hamilton.Win for South Auckland/Auckland Defeated By 21 To 5/Mediocre Representative Team 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18820 1924-09-22 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240922.2.7.5 2019-09-02 Auckland v Australian Universities 4 June 3:00 Auckland 15–7 Visiting League Team/Australian Universities/Auckland Wins First Game/Fifteen Points to Seven/Superiority Throughout 9 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18727 1924-06-05 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240605.2.124 2019-09-05 Australian Universities George Davidson, Ivan Littlewood 2 Craddock Dufty, Bert Laing Craddock Dufty T Barry E J Ryan E J Ryan Carlaw Park 1 7000 Leonard Neild Auckland v Australian Universities 7 June 3:00 Auckland 17–2 Beaten Again/Aussies’ Poor Exhibition/Auckland Too Good/Football in the Mud 10 Auckland Star LV 135 1924-06-09 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240609.2.122 2019-09-05 Australian Universities Ben Davidson, M McNeil, Nelson Bass Craddock Dufty 3 Craddock Dufty E J Ryan Carlaw Park 1 4000 Bert Gallagher Auckland v Australian Universities thumb|left|Frank Delgrossothumb|right|George DavidsonFrank Delgrosso had to come on the replace George Davidson after he collided badly with teammate Clarrie Polson when they were both going after the ball. Polson received a bad cut over his eye and he also later had to retire and was replaced by Billy Ghent. 14 June 3:00 Auckland 14–14 Universities and Auckland Draw/Thrilling Second Half/Visitors Dashing Backs 9 Auckland Star LV 141 1924-06-16 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240616.2.122 2019-09-02 Australian Universities Bert Laing 2, Clarrie Polson, Harry Douglas Maurice Wetherill Ryan 2, Frank O'Rourke, Les Halberstater Dunworth Carlaw Park 1 12,000 W Ripley Probables v Possibles trial match 14 June 1:30 Probables 9–14 Possibles v Probables/Win for Possibles 9 Auckland Star LV 141 1924-06-16 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19240616.2.125 2020-03-31 Possibles Paul, Webb, Norman Veart Hec Brisbane, Peebles 2, Ernie Herring Charles Gregory Carlaw Park 1 12,000 W. L. Bull Auckland B v Hamilton Wilson Hall broke his collar bone during the second half and had to leave the field. The Auckland B team consisted of Charles Gregory, M Paul, Hec Brisbane, Ivan Littlewood, Lyall Stewart, Wilson Hall, A Garrett, Wally Somers, Jim O'Brien (Devonport), Len Mason, Wilfred McNeil, John Shirley, and Bill Te Whata. 16 July 3:00 Auckland B 28–18 Hamilton Team Beaten/Success of Local Players/An Interesting Contest 6 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18763 1924-07-28 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240717.2.11.1 2020-03-31 Hamilton Bill Te Whata 2, John W Shirley 2, M Paul, Ivan Littlewood Wilson Hall, Charles Gregory 2 John Shirley, Len Mason McGerty, Hemingway Joseph Dufty 2 Joseph Dufty 3 Hemingway Carlaw Park 1 William Mincham Auckland v England thumb|left|The Auckland team. During the film footage of this match it shows them posing for this photograph with Craddock Dufty joking with teammates.thumb|right|Lou BrownThere is film footage of the match taken by Tarr Film and archived on the New Zealand Archive of Film, television and Sound Ngā Taonga website.League Match - England V Auckland Ngā Taonga https://www.ngataonga.org.nz/collections/catalogue/catalogue-item?record_id=66017 2021-10-09 In scoring on halftime Ben Davidson was knocked out. At the start of the second half Auckland attempted to replace him with Lou Brown who ran out on to the field. However the England captain when seeing this objected as replacements were forbidden in the second half of rugby league matches at this time. Auckland were forced to play with 12 players for a time until Davidson recovered well enough to return to the field. 26 July 3:00 Auckland 11–24 Match Against Auckland/Win for the Visitors/Twenty-Four to Eleven/Excellent Combined Play 9 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18772 1924-07-28 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240728.2.129 2019-09-02 England Ben Davidson 2, Nelson Bass Craddock Dufty Johnny Ring 2, Frank Evans, Jack Bennett, Charlie Carr, Stan Whitty Jonty Parkin 2, Ernest Knapman Jonty Parkin Carlaw Park 1 20,000 Les Bull Auckland Province v England The team was made entirely from Auckland 'city' players with the exception of Huatahi 'Brownie' Paki and B Johnson from the Waikato (South Auckland) competition. During the first half Paki was injured and replaced by Frank Delgrosso who scored a try after a passing movement. Paki had spent the 1923 season playing in Australia for St. George. 30 July 3:00 Auckland Province 13–28 English League Team/Match Against Province/Twenty-Eight to Thirteen/Good Local Forwards/Visitors’ Backs Superior 11 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18775 1924-07-31 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240731.2.132 2019-09-09 England Hec Brisbane, B Johnson, Frank Delgrosso Craddock Dufty Craddock Dufty Ben Gronow, Sid Rix, Tommy Howley 2, Joe Darwell, Jack Price Ben Gronow 4 Ben Gronow Carlaw Park 1 7,000 Leonard Neild Auckland B v Lower Waikato 20 August 3:00 Auckland B 15–14 Lower Waikato Match/Auckland’s Narrow Victory/Fifteen Points to Fourteen 6 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18793 1924-08-21 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240821.2.10.1 2019-09-09 Lower Waikato John Shirley, Henry Hawkes, McDonald Arthur Mansill 2 Hall, W Jackson, Welch, Alman Hall Carlaw Park 1 A Bovaird Auckland v South Auckland (Waikato) 20 September 3:00 South Auckland (Waikato) 21–5 Auckland Dufty, Hemingway, Stevenson, Raynor, Allen Dufty, Raynor Dufty Lou Brown Alan Clarke Steele Park, Hamilton W Waring Junior representative fixtures Date Score Score Venue Junior representative match 30 Aug Representative Match 4 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18802 1924-09-01 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19240901.2.7 2019-09-02 Auckland Juniors 14 Hamilton Juniors 8 Carlaw Park # 1 Junior representative match 4 Oct Junior Representatives/Auckland Beat Hamilton 5 The New Zealand Herald LXI 18832 1924-10-06 https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/NZH19241006.2.31.1 2019-09-09 Hamilton Juniors 8 Auckland Juniors 17 Steele Park, Hamilton Auckland representative matches played and scorers NoNameClub TeamPlayTriesConPenPoints1Craddock DuftyAthletic4043142Ben DavidsonCity430093Bert LaingDevonport221084Ivan LittlewoodPonsonby320065Nelson BassCity420065George DavidsonCity310035Clarrie PolsonNewton310038Wilfred McNeilPonsonby310038Harry DouglasDevonport1100310Lou BrownCity1100311Maurice WetherillCity5010211Alan ClarkeNewton1001213A GarrattDevonport 1000014Jim O'BrienMarist2000014Alf TownsendCity 3000014Bill StormontMarist2000014Hec McDonaldCity3000014Bert AveryAthletic2000014Frank DelgrossoPonsonby3000014Jim O'BrienDevonport2000014Billy GhentMarist1000014Charles GregoryMarist1000023Hec BrisbaneMarist1000024Ernie HerringAthletic1000024Wally SomersNewton1000024George GardinerMarist1000024Selby CrewtherCity1000024Robert (Bob) CrewtherCity1000024Tommy PaiMāngere1000024George MormonPonsonby1000024LipscombeMāngere1000024Jack PaiMāngere1000024Ernie MackieCity1000024John Wallett ShirleyPonsonby10000 There were several members of the Lipscombe family playing for the Māngere club and it is unclear which of them played in the forwards for Auckland in their match with South Auckland on September 20. References External links Auckland Rugby League Official Site Category:Auckland Rugby League seasons Auckland Rugby League