Western Times, Exeter Grand Wrestling: London men versus local wrestlers (1873)

EXETER GRAND WRESTLING MATCH. This match was continued yesterday, and the fine play of the previous day was (if possible) surpassed, the London men showing splendid practice, and putting our local celebrities on their mettle, but although heavily matched they have held their own in good style, as the following results will show:—

Class A—Pike (London) and Captain Back (Topsham) played a splendid bout for forty minutes. Oliver (Torquay) and Milton (Symonsbath) played eight minutes. This turn, perhaps not so exciting as the last, but every point of the science was brought prominently into play without punishment being inflicted by either, and showing how well they deserve the prominent position they hold in the wrestling ring. Burnett (Exeter) and Heywood (London) played a fine turn, the former being the winner of the back.

The following standards were made in Class B—Chapel (Ide), Stooks (Exeter), Drew (Exeter). In the double play in this class James (Whipton) and Chapel (Ide) showed some splendid play in pure Devonshire style. James was thrown in 35 minutes. Play commences today at three o’clock.