Jack Riley (rugby league)
Jack Riley | |
|---|---|
| Born | c. 1874 |
| Died | 1924-06-19 Halifax, England |
| Occupation(s) | Rugby league footballer, Publican |
| Years active | 1893–early 1900s |
| Known for | Playing as a forward for Halifax and England; participant in the first international rugby league match in 1904 |
Jack Riley (circa 1874 – 19 June 1924) was a professional English rugby league player who competed in the early twentieth century. Occupying the position of forward, he represented Halifax and was selected to play for England in the first-ever international rugby league encounter in 1904.
Playing career
Riley commenced his rugby journey at the age of 17 with his hometown club in Luddenden Foot. In October 1893, he secured a contract with Halifax.
Challenge Cup Final appearances
As a forward, Riley contributed to Halifax's 7–0 triumph over Salford in the 1902–03 Challenge Cup Final held at Headingley, Leeds, on 25 April 1903, witnessed by 32,507 fans. He also featured in the subsequent 1903–04 Challenge Cup Final on 30 April 1904 at The Willows, Salford, where Halifax defeated Warrington 8–3 before an audience of 17,041.
International honours
Riley received an international cap playing as a forward for England in a pioneering 12-a-side match against Other Nationalities at Central Park, Wigan, on 5 April 1904. Despite England's 3–9 defeat, this game was recognized as rugby league's inaugural international fixture.
Personal life
Following his retirement from professional rugby, Riley pursued a career as a publican. He passed away on 19 June 1924 at the Old King Cross Inn located in Halifax at the age of 50 and was interred at Stoney Royd Cemetery.