40 years since historic rugby victory in Workington

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North West Counties celebrating the win Credit: ITV Border

40 years ago today thousands of people packed into the Ellis sports ground in Workington for a very special match.

The All Blacks were on tour, as well as the internationals they played all the provisional sides in the UK and they were like a steam train. their record for these matches was incredible.

The All Blacks won every game they played from 1905 to 1972 and then they arrived in Workington and the North West Counties proved to be their Nemesis.

12000 people watched and among them was John Owen

There were five Cumbrians in the winning team and Memories of that momentous day are still displayed proudly in the club house.

The North west counties squad Credit: Workington RFU
New Zealand All Blacks Credit: Workington RFU

Some rugby fans may suggest that the 22nd November is a lucky day - because exactly 31 years after the historic victory over the all Blacks, on the 22nd November 2003 England lifted the world cup in Australia.