1952 SEASON

Western Suburbs DRLFC 1952 – Premiers
Back: J Fitzgerald, D Dines, K Hansen, W Horder, C Ratcliff, H Farrell,
Front: R Watson, C Lowe, W Callinan, P McLean (C), G Bain, D Schofield, L Trevena,
Ball Boy: P Rowan

In 1952 Wests led the competition from start to finish, a significant effort considering they lost their three Kangaroos, Keith Holman, Frank Stanmore and Arthur Collinson, who left to tour after Round 11. Leo Trevena and Ron Watson stepped ably into their shoes.

The addition of two Country Players, Col Ratcliff (West Wyalong) and Gerry Lowe (Tamworth) was a significant factor in the premiership win as they built a devastating centre combination.

The Grand Final win against Souths 22-12 was full of controversy. It was almost a continuous brawl with both hookers knocked out and eventually Bryan Orrock and Hec Farrell being sent off. Wests scored four late tries after they battered the Souths pack into submission. Dev Dines, playing despite suspect residential qualifications, made a huge difference in attack. The referee, George Bishop (who Souths accused of taking a bribe) was booed off the field and announced his retirement after the game!

They lost the Club Championship by 3 points, the Reserves were devastated by injuries and the Thirds made it to the Final where they lost 29-7 to the eventual premiers, Manly.

The performance of Tom McMahon, who retired from a stellar refereeing career to graduate to First Grade Premiership coach, cannot be overstated.

The one truly sour note for Wests during the year was the sudden death of Ern McFayden, only a year after retiring from all duties. The Club was rocked by the announcement.