Purley Flags Winning Team 1952

This newspaper report was printed at the time - though I'm not sure which paper it was in.

THE SENIOR FLAG FINAL
FROM OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT

The South of England Men's Lacrosse Association Challenge Flag is now, for the first time, the proud possession of Purley Lacrosse Club. They beat Cambridge University by 8-7 at the Chislehurst and Sidcup County Grammar School ground on Saturday, and so join Buckhurst Hill as the only two existing clubs to have won the senior, intermediate, and junior flags during their history. Purley are also virtual winners of the Southern Senior League Championship cup this season.

The final was played under bright conditions and on firm ground. Purley's attack was well held, the first quarter ending 2-2. Flag final nerves affected play, but Purley were leading 4-3 at half-time. Cambridge attempted to eclipse R. V. Wilson and G. Metcalfe, and did well, but J. R. Church found the hard ground more to his liking as do all Australian lacrosse players. At three quarter time Purley led 6-3. The final quarter was the most interesting when Cambridge livened up to level at 7-all in grand style, but Church kept up his assiduous play and scored the winner. Cambridge pressed hard but could not equalize, their finishing being below normal. Church (four), Wilson (three), and Metcalfe scored for Purley, and Marland (two), Thorp, Robson, Shercliff, Thornburn, and Gooddie for Cambridge.

Back: F.Bream, J.Jemmett, D.Coppock (Capt), L.Bristow, G.England, R.Privett
Front: E.Walker, J.Church, G.Metcalfe, F.Marsh, A.Johnson, R.Wilson