Robert George Deans (19 February 1884 – 30 September 1908) was a New Zealand and Canterbury rugby union footballer. In 1905, Deans entered New Zealand rugby folklore for his disallowed try against Wales in the famous Match of the Century. Deans claimed to have scored a try that would have drawn New Zealand level but was pulled back over the line before the referee could catch up. It was the only match that New Zealand lost in the 35-match tour. Deans was 24 years old when he died as a result of complications arising from an appendix operation.

Bob Deans
Birth nameRobert George Deans
Date of birth(1884-02-19)19 February 1884
Place of birthChristchurch, New Zealand
Date of death30 September 1908(1908-09-30) (aged 24)
Place of deathDarfield, New Zealand
Height1.83 m (6 ft 0 in)
Weight85.6 kg (189 lb)
SchoolChristchurch Boys' High School
Notable relative(s)Bruce Deans (grandnephew)
Robbie Deans (grandnephew)
Rugby union career
Position(s) Centre three-quarter
Amateur team(s)
Years Team Apps (Points)
1902–1908 High School Old Boys ()
Correct as of 7 May 2007
Provincial / State sides
Years Team Apps (Points)
1903–1908 Canterbury 25 ()
International career
Years Team Apps (Points)
1905–1908 New Zealand 24 (63)

Family members

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Deans' great nephews Bruce Deans and Robbie Deans also played for Canterbury and the All Blacks. Robbie is the former Australian head coach. Jane Deans (died 1911) was his grandmother.[1]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Riccarton and the Deans Family, page 188
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  • Bob Deans at AllBlacks.com
  • Olssen, Erik (7 April 2006). "Deans, Robert George 1884–1908". Dictionary of New Zealand Biography. Retrieved 2 May 2007.