Midland Counties Collection

The All Blacks perform the first ever Haka under floodlights in Britain as they prepare to take on the Midlands in 1983
Rugby Union - 1983 New Zealand Tour to Scotland & England - Midland Division 19 New Zealand 13 (8/11/1983) New Zealand centre Steve Pokere leads the All Black Haka at Welford Road, Leicester

Dusty Hare kicks the late long-range penalty that put the Midlands into the lead against the All Blacks in 1983
Rugby Union - 1983 New Zealand Tour to Scotland & England - Midland Division 19 New Zealand 13 (8/11/1983) Midlands full back Dusty Hare kicks the long-range penalty that puts his side into the lead

The scoreboard shows the Midlands ahead against the All Blacks in 1983
Rugby Union - 1983 New Zealand Tour to Scotland & England - Midland Division 19 New Zealand 13 (8/11/1983) The Welford Road crowd celebrate as the scoreboard shows the Midlands ahead after Dusty

John Goodwin playing for the Midlands against the All Blacks in 1983
Rugby Union - 1983 New Zealand Tour to Scotland & England - Midland Division 19 New Zealand 13 (8/11/1983) Midland winger John Goodwin tussels with All Blacks Andrew Donald (left)

Midlands full back Dusty Hare celebrates after his team defeat the All Blacks in 1983
Rugby Union - 1983 New Zealand Tour to Scotland & England - Midland Division 19 New Zealand 13 (8/11/1983) Midlands full back Dusty Hare celebrates in the Welford Road changing room after the game

The Midlands team are applauded off the Welford Road pitch after defeating the All Blacks in 1983
Rugby Union - 1983 New Zealand Tour to Scotland & England - Midland Division 19 New Zealand 13 (8/11/1983) Midlands scrum half Nick Youngs is applauded off the Welford Road pitch at the end of

Midlands no. 8 Godber Robbins scores against the All Blacks in 1983
Rugby Union - 1983 New Zealand Tour to Scotland & England - Midland Division 19 New Zealand 13 (8/11/1983) Midlands no.8 Godber Robbins (Coventry) goes over for his try at Welford Road, Leicester

Birmingham (colour litho)
2797832 Birmingham (colour litho) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Birmingham. Illustration for card from game called The Kingdoms Of Europe by John Jaques)

The Queens Visit to the Midland Counties (engraving)
1100898 The Queens Visit to the Midland Counties (engraving) by English School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: The Queens Visit to the Midland Counties)

New Zealand centre Steve Pokere drops to his knees after he over-hits his kick ahead against the Midlands in 1983
Rugby Union - 1983 New Zealand Tour to Scotland & England - Midland Division 19 New Zealand 13 (8/11/1983) New Zealand centre Steve Pokere drops to his knees after he over-hits his kick ahead at

All Black centre Steve Pokere makes a break against the Midlands in 1983
Rugby Union - 1983 New Zealand Tour to Scotland & England - Midland Division 19 New Zealand 13 (8/11/1983) All Black centre Steve Pokere makes a break at Welford Road, Leicester

Midlands players Paul Dodge, Dusty Hare, Clive Woodward and Les Cusworth celebrate after defeating the All Blacks in
Rugby Union - 1983 New Zealand Tour to Scotland & England - Midland Division 19 New Zealand 13 (8/11/1983) Midlands players celebrate in the Welford Road changing rooms after their famous victory

Peter Wheeler - Midlands captain for their 1983 victory over the All Blacks
Rugby Union - 1983 New Zealand Tour to Scotland & England - Midland Division 19 New Zealand 13 (8/11/1983) Midlands captain Peter Wheeler before the game at Welford Road, Leicester

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"The Midland Counties: A Historic Triumph Over the All Blacks in 1983" In a groundbreaking moment, the legendary All Blacks took to the floodlit field for the first-ever Haka performance in Britain. The stage was set as they prepared to face off against the formidable Midlands team. Dusty Hare, with nerves of steel, unleashed a powerful long-range penalty that propelled the Midlands into an exhilarating lead against their esteemed opponents. The scoreboard displayed their triumph, leaving spectators in awe of this underdog's remarkable feat. John Goodwin showcased his exceptional skills while playing for the Midlands against the All Blacks. His determination and talent were on full display as he contributed to their impressive performance throughout the match. As victory loomed near, Dusty Hare couldn't contain his elation when his team emerged triumphant over one of rugby's greatest powerhouses –the All Blacks. His celebration reverberated through Welford Road Stadium, echoing both joy and disbelief at this historic achievement. The Midlands team received a well-deserved standing ovation as they left the pitch after defeating the mighty All Blacks. Their hard work and dedication had paid off, etching their names into rugby folklore forever. Godber Robbins etched his name into history by scoring against New Zealand's finest during that memorable encounter in 1983. His contribution added another chapter to this captivating tale of triumph over adversity. Beyond rugby battles, Birmingham proudly showcases its vibrant colors through a stunning lithograph capturing its essence and spirit. This city within Midland Counties is steeped in rich heritage and culture that resonates with locals and visitors alike. Not only renowned for sporting achievements but also hosting distinguished guests like Queen Elizabeth II herself who graced Midland Counties with her presence during her royal visit—an engraving immortalizing this special occasion serves as a testament to its significance. Steve Pokere experienced both highs and lows during his clash against Midlands.