Australian Rugby League

Australia v England

1924 in Australia
1st Test - 23 June : lost 3-22 / Sydney Cricket Ground (50,005)
2nd Test - 28 June : lost 3-5 / Sydney Cricket Ground (33,842)
3rd Test - 12 July : won 21-11 / Brisbane Exhibition Grd (39,000)

Tom Gorman Queensland rugby league came of age in the season of 1924 when they claimed the majority of positions in the Australian team. Ipswich half Jim Craig (ex-Balmain) was announced as test captain and he was joined by club team-mates Fraunfelder, Hunt, Potter and Paten.

The famous Toowoomba "galloping clydesdales" had a strong representation as well: with Gorman, Bennett, Armbruster and Duncan Thompson appearing during the series.

England was led by ‘Jonty' Parkin and in their team was 20 year old Jim Sullivan (Wigan). Sullivan made his debut in the 1st Test at the SCG and had the 50,005 spectators in awe within a minute of the kick-off when he landed a penalty goal from 60 metres out. Australia's defence fell away in the game and eventually lost 22-3.

Despite a rising injury toll in the 2nd Test England held firm. After being down 3-0 late in the game, a last-ditch try to Parkin and a calmly kicked conversion by Sullivan saw the Ashes in the Lions hands. A record ten Queenslanders were selected for the 3rd Test. The Lions led 5-4 at half-time after a booming 50 metre field goal by Sullivan, but thanks to an inspired performance by Tom Gorman the Australians won 21-11.