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Photos of Wigan
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Album Contents

Wigan Album

WIGAN CUP FINALISTS 1944

5 Comments

WIGAN v BRADFORD 1944 ODSAL CUP FINAL
WIGAN v BRADFORD 1944 ODSAL CUP FINAL
Photo: Keith
Views: 1,842
Item #: 15003
I've acquired a DVD of the 1944 (2nd Leg) of the War time Cup Final between Wigan and Bradford Northern. Wigan won the 1st leg 3-0 at Central Park but lost this one 8-0 (4 penalties) at Odsal in front of 25,000 spectators. I've taken a few still photos from the DVD (which is extremely clear) although the editing leaves a lot to be desired. I'm especially delighted because my father Jack Bowen played in both matches and to see him running around the rugby field as a fit 28 year old is a very special moment for me and my family. Dad passed away last year aged 93 and so he was not able to see this film.
This photo is of the opening ceremony, Wigan players are, Joe Jones (nearest the camera), followed by Ken Gee, Jack Bowen, Hector Gee, Jimmy? Belshaw (part hidden), Johnny Blan and with his back turned towards us is the captain, number 9, Joe Egan.
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Comment by: Keith on 9th June 2010 at 18:24

Correction, that should read Billy Belshaw, not Jimmy and Johnny Blan was probably more often called Jack Blan.

Comment by: Ashley on 10th June 2010 at 17:37

Other Wigan born players in this team were Ernie Ashcroft and Martyn Ryan who along with the Wigan born players Joe Egan and Ken Gee, also playing in this Final, were to be cornerstones of the great team of the immediate post war years.

Comment by: centralpark on 28th July 2010 at 21:24

Keith find your dvd of the 1944 final interesting as i am long time wigan fan i also have a dvd with a group of wigan players one being your father having a round the table chat in a pub ,i wonder if you have this oneq

Comment by: Keith on 17th December 2010 at 15:49

Hi "centralpark", only just come across your comments so apologies for being so late in responding. If "centralpark" happens to be a "nom de plume" for someone I have already been in touch with then this message isn't necessary. If not let me know and I'll take it from there. Best wishes, Keith.

Comment by: paul on 28th January 2015 at 20:21

hello im billy belshaws grandson i wonder if any of u no were i can get a copy of these dvd id love to see them play

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