RUGBY FOOTBALL, 1940. RETROSPECT. With only three old colours and a very young first game, the prospects of this season were not encouraging. It seemed likely that a workable pack would be produced, yet behind would be a weakness with newcomers of inexperience and youth. The performance of the side early fulfilled this expectation; in spite of a heavy defeat from Worksop, the pack secured the ball in a majority of scrums ; behind was poor defence and slowness in attack. As the season progressed the backs made commendable progress and, indeed, turned the tables and finished as the strong part of the side. Frost and Broadhurst particularly made great strides. The team was well captained and really may be said to have made the best of things in view of the lack of outstanding talent. More robust fitness and a more serious view of training would be welcomed; it is to be hoped that the good work of the captain in the lower games will not be unproductive, and that we shall develop more of a tradition for Rugby football in the School than exists at present. 1st XV caps : F. F. Steele, G. R. Morris and F. N. Buckler. Points F. A. P. W. L. D. 74 261 4 8 0 ... 12 1st XV 128 0 5 0 14 ... 5 2nd XV 23 3 0 17 4 1 Colts
1st XV CHARACTERS. * Denotes a cap. The whole team are colours. F. F. Steele*. Captained the side with ability and enthusiasm. Play improved considerably as a back-row forward. Line-out work particularly valuable. G. R. Morris (Vice-Captain). Changed from forward to centre three-quarter to bolster up the backs. Attack vigorous but not yet skilful, although improving. Defence good generally but positioning a little weak.
