Britain Three Tries, Wins League Test

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31096, 27 June 1966, Page 3

Britain Three Tries, Wins League Test

(N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) SYDNEY. Britain became a hot favourite to regain the Rugby League Ashes from Australia after winning the first test, 17-13, at Sydney, on Saturday..

Britain outplayed Australia both back and forward, although it was down, 7-8, at half-time. The tourists scored three tries to one and the substitute full-back, A. Keegan, who was pressed into service on the morning of the game after K. Gowers failed a fitness test, kicked three goals. The fourth British goal was a field goal kicked by T. Bishop five yards out from the Australian goalmouth after 58 minutes’ play. That goal put Britain ahead, 9-8, and it went to 17-8 before Australia scored again four minutes from the end. The rebuilt Australian pack was no match for the heavier

Englishmen and, unwisely when in possession, Australia tried to play the game in the forwards. The 3-1 try margin for Britain was a fair estimate of the two sides, although the Welsh-born K. Barnes kept Australia in the picture with five goals. For Britain, Bishop was the outstanding back and the stand-off, A. Hardisty, scored a great solo try. Keegan made only one mistake all day and had little tackling to do. W. Burgess was the best of the remaining British backs and he also scored a fine try. The British forwards all did well, with J. Mantle showing great speed on the firm ground until he was knocked out by a stiff arm tackle by G. Langlands.

For Britain, Watson, Hardisty and Burgess scored tries, Keegan kicked three goals and Bishop a field goal. For Australia, G. Banks scored a try and Barnes kicked five goals.