Throw Back Thursday – Brilliant Bluebags Backs Secure State Cup Semi-Finals Berth

Each week, thanks to CRYO, we take a look back at a magical moment in our club’s history. Today, we look at a big Newtown victory at Lidcombe Oval, the venue for Sunday’s match.

BRILLIANT BLUEBAGS BACKS SECURE STATE CUP SEMI-FINALS BERTH

This Sunday, Western Suburbs Magpies host Newtown at Lidcombe Oval. The venue was the Magpies home ground from 1967 to 1986 but its association with top grade rugby league goes back a lot further. 

During rugby league’s early years, knockout cup competitions were a regular feature of the footy season. On 22 July 1945, Western Suburbs played Newtown at Lidcombe Oval in the quarter finals of the NSWRFL State Cup. Clubs from all over NSW entered the tournament. Other quarter finalists that day included Kurri Kurri and Western Suburbs (Newcastle). 

Before a crowd of 7600, Newtown led 7-0 at half time. Despite losing most of the scrums, a ferocious tackling display from the Bluebags meant the Magpies could not convert their opportunities into points. In a setback for Wests, their fullback, R Martin suffered a cheek injury in the first half but with no interchange allowed, he had to play on.

In the second half, Wests scored two quick tries after the break to go up 10-7. From there it was all Newtown. A Tom Kirk penalty brought the Jets within a point. Sid Goodwin then went over for Newtown’s second try, which Kirk converted to give the Bluebags a 14-10 lead. Newtown scored one further converted try before a consolation goal from Wests saw the final score end up 19-12 to the mighty Bluebags. Newtown went on to win the State Cup in 1945, its second to go with the 1941 title. 

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Below: A clipping from the programme for the 1945 State Cup quarter final between Western Suburbs and Newtown at Lidcombe Oval.