Anglo-Australian test resume after the war

1920

The Tigers dominance continued in 1920, making it 5 from 6.

The Tigers were all class, winning in style scoring more tries (69) than they did kick goals (40). With 27 points, from 11 wins, 1 loss and a draw, the Tigers were a good 7 points ahead of the equal Runners Up South Sydney and Glebe.

Club Captain Pony Holloway was honoured with the first ever testimonial match which raised the veteran 100 pounds

1921

The Kangaroo Tour disrupted the season, with the competition being decided on the results of the 1st round. The Tigers couldn't retain their title in the shortened season but were strongly represented in the Roo Tour with Jim Craig, Bill "Chang" Shultz, "Whip" Latta and Chook Fraser (who ended his great rep career) all taking part in the Ashes. Australia lost the deciding test 6-0 with Chook Fraser breaking his leg.

1922

Balmain lacked the consistency and try scoring ability to match the top guns in 1922, finishing in fifth position after winning 8, losing 6 and drawing 2 matches. Chook Fraser, Reg Latta, and "Chang" Shultz represented the Roos against a Rest of Australia side and many other players made the metropolis and NSW teams.

1923

Chook Fraser was honoured with a Testimonial Year by the Balmain club, and he led his team to another City Cup victory. It was a competition of draws with Balmain needing a replay to defeat Souths in the semi's 8-5. The first match ended after the 2 teams could not be separated after extra time (18 all). Balmain then won the final in extra time 25-5, after the full time scoreboard read 5 all. Chook was instrumental in hammering the Glebe side in extra time. The Tigers finished the Premiership in 3rd position with Easts running out champions.

1924

Reg Latta, the Tigers forward and vice captain was awarded the Silver trophy for Best and Fairest in the Test Series against Great Britain. "Whip" Latta was also the only try scorer in the Premiership final of 1924, which the Tigers won 3-0. The game was the first to be broadcasted on radio and the victory against rivals Souths was set up when Chook chipped over the top, regathered and 2 passes later Whip crashed over for the 3 pointer. Balmain also won the Truth and Sportsman Gold Cup by beating Easts in the Final.

1925

It hurts to say this, but Souths were too good for all in 1925, undefeated in 1st Grade and winning all 3 grades. They also won the City Cup. Chook and Chang Shultz retired from city football and so ended a great era in Balmain Tiger history. Chook was also awarded life membership to the NSWRL after a brilliant career. Reg Latta took over the captaincy and also led NSW out on 7 occasions in 1925.

1926

The 1926 season saw the introduction of the semi finals system of determining the Premiership. This system had little relevance to the Tigers in 1926 as they ran second last. Souths went on to retain the title and equal Balmain's record of 6 premierships.

1927

Rebuilding was the focus of 1927 as Balmain was represented by their youngest side in club history. The season was memorable for some great upset victories and the debut season of the very talented George Bishop.

1928

The season of 1928 was remembered for the Earl Park riot. At a game against St George, Tony Russell of Balmain became involved in a running feud with George Castairs, the beloved St George captain. The Earl Park crowd took matters into their own hands by storming the field in an attempt to injure Russell. The pair continued their fight in the back of an ambulance as they were transported to hospital. Balmain secretary, Harold Matthews was appointed as manager of the Test squad and later went on to become secretary of the NSWRL and ARL. He is now honoured with a junior rugby league competition and trophy in his name.

1929

Souths made it 5 in a row in 1929. George Bishop was controversially selected to tour England with the Kangaroos and played 2 tests in which he answered his critics. Bishop later went on to become a referee. An amazing rugby league career encompassed playing for Balmain, NSW, Australia and refereeing Test matches and Grand Finals. Balmain finished mid field.

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1960-1969 1970-1979 1980-1989 1990-1999 2000-Present
Tigers Centenary