Eastern Suburbs (now known as the Sydney Roosters) competed in the 12th New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL) premiership in 1919.
Newtown forwards packed admirably In the scrum, and Eastern Suburbs' hooker, the veteran S. Pearce, did not seem able to compete against his opponent.
Eastern Suburbs' forwards then secured possession in the open and after Bawden had been tacked bv Rigney, Watkins, always alert, scored a try, which was converted b Norman.
Again Newtown equalised the scores, Boys kicking a penalty goal soon after play was resumed.
They frequently attacked, and only strenuous defence by Eastern Suburbs prevented Newtown scoring.
Eastern Suburbs backs were particularly smart in making openings, Cubitt moving about in good style whenever an opportunity offered.
A fine dash by the Eastern Suburbs forwards soon after play was restarted ended in a knock-on near the corner post.
The backs then took part in a fine attack, Wright being twisted round into touch by Vest.
Cubitt distinguished himself by solid defence, and Norman was continually prominent in taking man and ball.
Western Suburbs seemed unable to make progress, and good passing by their opponents ended in Messenger and Wright being blocked on the respective Wings.
Burns and Gilbert made strong efforts to get through as the game advanced, but they were effectually collared.
A late try to lowly placed South Sydney's Harold Horder cost Easts the outright premiership lead.
Easts winger Gordon Wright lost the ball on his own line, Robinson pounced on the loose ball and scored, Wall converted making the final score 13-4, giving Balmain their fourth premiership.