From that point they didn't lose another game, winning eight season encounters in a row before the finals.

Clive Churchill had broken his arm early in the game tackling Manly winger George Hugo but refused to leave the field.

Newtown were the minor premiers and had eleven of their 1954 Grand Final side back for the 1955 decider, all fit, experienced and keen to avenge their 1954 loss.

Souths trailed 4–8 at half-time and the Bluebags looked home with an 11–7 lead with ten minutes remaining.

[2] A last gasp long-range penalty goal attempt from Bluebags fullback Gordon Clifford was unsuccessful (it passed between the posts but fractionally under the crossbar) and Souths won by a single point.