Albert Asher

Eighteen months later he played for Tauranga against Auckland, becoming the youngest senior representative on record in New Zealand rugby union.

The Bay Of Plenty Times reported after the match against Auckland that "Asher was the hero of the team, his defence was superb, and was greatly admired by the gallery as well as the Rugby Union Committee".

His first came after he "whipped in, and gathering up the ball, beat three Thames men, and cleverly grounded the leather across the line on the corner".

At the 25 he was picked up by the Thames fullback and Paul, and hustled by both, but kept his feet through it all, and continuing on his way, ran round and scored fairly between the posts.

Remarkably after returning from the Australian tour he played in 7 matches for Auckland and failed to register a single try.

[3] After two years out of the game Asher again represented Auckland in 1907, before changing codes to rugby league.

Asher declined the offer to tour with the 1907–1908 New Zealand professional rugby team due to a broken ankle.

[14] Asher then traveled to Sydney, where he was part of the Australasian side that played two matches against the 1910 Great Britain team.

Asher, who was known for leaping over players – leading to his nickname Opai, clashed with another known leaper, Billy Batten.

Asher came into contact with Batten's knee in a mid air collision and was carried from the ground, requiring stitches before he returned.

[1] He finished the season by being part of the City side that won the inaugural competition, being awarded the Myers Cup.

[17]After retirement Asher became the custodian of Carlaw Park between 1921 and 1945, the home of the Auckland Rugby League.

Asher in the Auckland team to play Wellington on August 5, 1911.