The Tiger and the Original Dog
When Matt Riley finally called time on his remarkable career, the rugby press took notice. Rugby Pass declared “English Rugby’s Longest-Serving ‘One Club Man’ Prepares to Bow Out,” The Rugby Paper announced “Riley calls it a day to take up coaching role,” and the Bury Times celebrated with “Long Tigers’ life of Riley is marked with home win.” Sedgley Park were (quite rightly) immensely proud of their longest serving player.
The Matt “The Sedgley Truck” Riley Legacy
Whilst Sedgley Park Tigers have produced many fine players over their 90+ year history, none embodied the club’s spirit more than Matt Riley, affectionately known as “The Sedgley Truck.” Riley, made his debut in 2006 and achieved extraordinary longevity in the modern era before bowing out last year.
Having played 457 matches for the Tigers – with his final appearance coming against Darlington Mowden Park – Riley’s commitment spanned nearly two decades. The powerful centre from Widnes was the heartbeat of Sedgley Park’s backline, leading by example both on and off the field. His dedication saw him captain the club through various campaigns, including their promotion back to National League One.
Riley’s journey to Sedgley Park began in rugby league, where he represented Lancashire and North-West Counties. His transition to union came through Lancashire U18s, where Sale Sharks academy coaches first spotted his potential. However, it was at Park Lane where Riley found his true home, becoming not just a player but an institution.
Richard Trickey Enters the Chat
Now, while we’re all rightly celebrate Matt’s remarkable 457-game achievement, there’s a quiet chuckle echoing from the Richard Trickey Stand at Heywood Road. You see, when it comes to rugby longevity, Sale FC’s Richard Trickey might have a polite but firm correction to offer.
Trickey, who made his Sale FC debut in September 1962, didn’t just rewrite the record books – he practically authored them. His extraordinary career spanned over four decades, racking up around 1,000 games for Sale FC, including 700 first team appearances. But here’s where it gets interesting for our friends celebrating “longest-serving one-club men.”
This remarkable stalwart also earned 106 caps for Lancashire – a county record that still stands today. His representative honours read like a rugby tourist’s dream itinerary: twice against New Zealand, three times against Australia, plus matches against Argentina, Fiji, and South Africa as well as a France “B” Team featuring most of the French 1st team. He also turned out twice for the North of England and earned an England trial. He’s played with and against some of the greatest players in the history of the game.
The most delightful twist? Trickey’s passion for the game saw him still playing sevens in 2005 alongside a Fergus Mulchrone who is playing 10 this weekend against the Tigers. He also played in a 15’s game with Steve Smith against Bowdon that same year. It was during this final appearance that his wife Margaret spotted him walking onto the pitch and asked, “Where does he think he’s going?” – finally ending an era that had spanned four decades.
Beyond playing, when Sale Sharks departed Heywood Road for Stockport, Richard and his colleagues picked up the remains and helped rebuild the club into what it is today. He has served as club President, Chair of Rugby and still sits on the board 60 years after he joined the club. Yet here’s the beautiful irony: while Matt’s retirement generated headlines in Rugby Pass, The Rugby Paper, and the Bury Times, Trickey’s career ended without fanfare or press releases. Instead, his legacy is literally built into Sale FC – a stand bearing his name and “Tricky the Mutt,” the club mascot in his honour.
Sometimes the greatest achievements speak for themselves, even when nobody’s listening.
The Final Word
So Matt, as impressive as 457 games is – and it truly is exceptional in the modern era – you are less than halfway there! And remember a Sedgley Tigers Vets team will count towards the total.
Both men represent the very best of English rugby’s amateur spirit: loyalty, dedication, and an unbreakable bond between player and club that transcends generations.
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