Runcorn v St Helens (1901)

Runcorn, Lancashire Senior Competition winners in 1900 and third in 1901, face a fierce challenge from visiting St Helens.

Just a few minutes long and sharing their screen time between the players and the crowds, Mitchell and Kenyon's rugby films are more an evocative record of the occasion than they are a collection of 'highlights', which might puzzle those weaned on today's unblinking TV coverage. This film may not show any tries, but there's plenty of action and all the atmosphere of a thrilling sporting rivalry.