1908 Olympic Men’s Rugby Tournament Recap

Originally published on Mar. 23, 2021

By Zane Miller

On Monday, October 26th, 1908, Australasia defeated Great Britain 32-3 to win the second gold medal in Olympic men’s rugby history. It was the first and only gold medal for Australasia in Olympic men’s rugby, as athletes from both Australia and New Zealand played together to form the “Australasia” team in 1908 and 1912. The tournament consisted of only one match played, as only Australasia and Great Britain accepted invitations to participate in the rugby tournament. Great Britain took their second silver medal with the loss. The tournament was held in the United Kingdom, with London as the host city.

Arthur McCabe and Dan Caroll of Australasia tied for the most tries in the tournament with two each.

1908 Final Standings (W-L-T format)

1. Australasia (1-0, 1.000) (Gold)

2. Great Britain (0-1, .000) (Silver)

Medalists final game starting lineups

 

Link to stats database: http://www.rugbyfootballhistory.com/olympics.htm#1908