Western Times, Exeter Grand Wrestling: Back, James and Milton in Class A (1873)

EXETER GRAND WRESTLING MATCH. Play was resumed yesterday with all the vigour of the previous day; the men were in fine form, and the plaudits showered on them fully shewed the satisfaction felt by the spectators. In Class A, Captain Back (Topsham) and James (London) played a splendid turn for 40 minutes. James (Whipton) and Harris (Bow) played a very spirited turn for 40 minutes; this was a very fine turn—weight, age, and science being as well matched as possible. Milton and Oliver were called, but having played three 40-minute bouts, and neither being able to throw, it was agreed they should toss for the back, which was won by Milton.

Captain Back and Pike were again called, but as the men had already played 120 minutes, it was decided by the committee that the turn should be tossed for as both had evidently done their best, and Pike won the toss. James (Place) and Harris (Bow) were then called. There were several heavy bets on this event, and consequently there was great excitement. Both men did their best, and James threw his man in 25 minutes. Play will begin today at three o’clock.