Legendary sports reporter The Mole has shared the sad news that Joe Walsh – one of the heroes of Balmain Tigers’ iconic 1969 grand final triumph – has died aged 79, after a battle with cancer.
A rugged second-rower from the Riverina, Walsh carved his place in rugby league history with his fearless defence and relentless work rate during that unforgettable upset against South Sydney, a match still regarded as the biggest shock result in grand final history.
“He only came to the club from the bush that year so it really was a fairytale for Joe,” said former Tigers teammate and prolific winger Paul Cross. “He had a great work rate and tackled anyone that moved – he was one of the best defenders of that era. In the grand final, he was just dynamic and stopped Souths attacker after attacker.”
Walsh spent just five seasons at Balmain before returning home to continue a long and respected football career, including leading Cowra Magpies to a premiership in 1978 alongside a young Royce Simmons.
A large contingent of former Tigers stars is expected to gather in Wagga next week to farewell a man who lived the ultimate rugby league dream, and never forgot where he came from.
Image: Facebook / The Mole
