Wigan Highfield had applied to join the league at the end of the previous season and got accepted, meaning Wigan now had two professional teams. They had been a successful amateur side, a feat shown by them forcing a cup replay against Widnes in the previous year's Challenge Cup. Highfield played at Tunstall Lane in Pemberton and this was their first league fixture, a derby against Wigan! 20,000 crammed into their ground for this intriguing match and although Wigan won, Highfield were credited for their efforts. Highfield actually led by three points at half time but they faded away for fitness late in the game.