Steve Hartley: 191 tries in 369 games


Steve Hartley: 191 tries in 369 games


Roger Pugh  My top player


My favourite Rovers player has to be Steve Hartley.

I know that Roger Millward was the more technically gifted all-round half-back, but to me Hartley, the great finisher, was the most exciting Rovers player I have seen.

The sight of him, head back in characteristic running style, ball under arm, gliding round a full-back, will always live in my memory.

When he was clear of the main line of defence, I can't remember a full-back actually managing to tackle him.

He scored 191 tries in 369 games - including many spectacular efforts. His 90-yard match-winner in the John Player 3rd round at Widnes in 1981 was sensational.


Hartley bursting through the Hull FC defence in the 1981 Premiership Final
Hartley bursting through the Hull FC defence in the 1981 Premiership Final