Warrington Guardian:

From left, mascot Gary Ashcroft (son of Kevin), Derek Whitehead, Alan Whittle, Parry Gordon, Bobby Wanbon

 

THIS week has marked the 40th anniversary of Warrington's Challenge Cup Final success over Featherstone Rovers.

Nine members of the winning team, as well as the lucky mascot, got back together to celebrate the occasion and to see Warrington Wolves defeat Catalan Dragons at The Halliwell Jones Stadium on Friday.

Wolves defeated Fev 24-9 in the Wembley decider on May 11, 1974, with Kevin Ashcroft and Mike Nicholas scoring the tries. Derek Whitehead kicked both conversions and five penalty goals, while player-manager Alex Murphy chipped in with two drop goals.

Warrington Guardian:

Back together. From left, back row, Barry Philbin, Brian Brady, Bobby Wanbon, Billy Pickup, Mike Nicholas. Front row, Alan Whittle, Derek Whitehead, Kevin Ashcroft, John Bevan. Sat front, Gary Ashcroft (mascot).

That cup-winning team was: 

Derek Whitehead; Mike Philbin, Derek Noonan (deceased), Alan Whittle, John Bevan; Alex Murphy, Parry Gordon (deceased); Dave Chisnall (deceased), Kevin Ashcroft, Brian Brady, Dave Wright, Mike Nicholas, Barry Philbin. Subs: Billy Pickup, Bobby Wanbon.

Warrington Guardian:

Mike Nicholas and Kevin Ashcroft

Warrington Guardian:

Derek Whitehead

Warrington Guardian:

Alan Whittle

Warrington Guardian:

John Bevan

Warrington Guardian:

Kevin Ashcroft

Warrington Guardian:

Brian Brady

Warrington Guardian:

Mike Nicholas

Warrington Guardian:

Barry Philbin

Warrington Guardian:

Billy Pickup

Warrington Guardian:

Bobby Wanbon

Warrington Guardian:

Dave Chisnall, with Billy Pickup behind

Warrington Guardian:

John Bevan, with Kevin Ashcroft left

Warrington Guardian:

Dave Wright, left, with Derek Noonan