Arthur Smith was a forceful and enthusiastic performer so much so that he earned nickname ‘Mad’. He began playing rugby at Yorkley in the Forest of Dean before progressing to Cinderford and then on to Oldham in 1905. His style of play suited the Northern Union game and he earned a Lancashire cap before appearing in all three test matches against the All Golds. His 247 appearances in the red and white hoops garnered 21 tries.
Tom White was also from the West Country. Born in Bath, he captained his hometown club before moving to Bristol for a brief spell. He returned to Bath before signing for Oldham in 1905 for whom he made 224 appearances, scoring 49 tries and 81 goals. He kicked the only goal for the Northern Union at Cheltenham. A very quick halfback, White played mostly stand off for the Roughyeds but occasionally filled in at scrum half and even appeared on the wing such was his speed.
Signed from local club Werneth in 1902, George Tyson was a speedy and elusive winger who topped the Oldham try scoring charts for three consecutive seasons between 1907 and 1909. In all, he scored 111 tries and 4 goals in his 246 appearances at Watersheddings, winning county and international caps. He was also well known as a strong defender.
At the end of the tour, The Roughyeds signed All Gold George Smith who, despite being 35 years of age was an exceptional footballer. George was the first imported player signed by Oldham when he put pen to paper in the post-match bath immediately after the Test match in February 1908. He made his debut for Oldham against Wigan on 19 February playing opposite All Golds teammate Lance Todd. A champion sprinter, hurdler and jockey, Smith toured with 1905 All Blacks and became interested in Northern Union game. He returned to England as vice captain of the All Golds in 1908 and led the side in final test. He made 173 appearances for the Roughyeds, scoring 100 tries and 5 goals. He later coached the team. His image appeared on postage stamps issued in New Zealand to celebrate the centenary of rugby league in 1995.
about GR
L e a g u e
The Gloucestershire Rugby League is an organisation for local rugby league clubs in Gloucestershire. Our main activity currently is to promote rugby league through the County and give useful information about our sport to the public of Gloucestershire.
