McCarthy’s Miracle Run: The 1967 Grand Final Intercept
The 1967 season marked a new era for Rugby League. Limited-tackle football arrived, two new clubs entered the competition and, for South Sydney, a historic grand final moment was waiting to be written.
After falling short in 1966, the Rabbitohs powered back to finish one point behind minor premiers St George. A tough major semi-final win over Saints booked Souths a place in the decider, while Canterbury-Bankstown ended St George’s long reign in the preliminary final to set up a grand final that captured the eyes of the nation. It was the first major football match ever broadcast live across Australia.
Before a crowd of more than 56,000 at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Bob McCarthy produced one of the most famous tries in Rabbitohs history. With Canterbury-Bankstown attacking near Souths’ line, the second-rower read a pass from hooker Colin Brown, intercepted it on his fingertips and sprinted almost 80 yards to score. Johnny Greaves chased desperately, but McCarthy was too strong and too fast. It was a forward’s try that changed what people thought forwards could do.
His effort gave Souths a 10-8 lead at halftime and set the tone for a gripping finish. The match had its controversies, including a disputed long-range kick at goal from Kevin Longbottom and a tight field goal attempt from Eric Simms, but the premiership would be decided in the final minutes.
With the score locked at 10-all, Canterbury-Bankstown halfback Ross Kidd was penalised for feeding the scrum. Simms stepped up and calmly slotted the winning goal. South Sydney held on 12-10 to claim the 1967 premiership, while Canterbury-Bankstown players and officials showed genuine sportsmanship in defeat.
McCarthy finished his career as one of the Club’s greatest ever forwards, playing 211 first-grade matches, earning Life Membership and securing his place in the South Sydney Dream Team. Since 2003, the Clubperson of the Year award has carried his name.
One intercept, one incredible run and a grand final moment etched forever in red and green.
Since 1908. Still here.
