BIO

Herbert Brenton was recruited from Kadina on Yorke Peninsula at the beginning of the 1920 season. He was described in the press as a “speedy wingman.”

He played impressively in the pre-season trials and earned selection in the league side for the second round clash against West Torrens. Despite Norwood losing this game by almost six goals, Herbert made a fine debut. It was his pace that drew the attention of reporters. They wrote of his “great turn of speed” and being “particularly fleet of foot.”

His good form continued and by mid-season he had made one wing his own. Unfortunately in only his sixth game, against Port Adelaide, he sustained a leg injury that would keep him out for the rest of the season.

Herbert returned home to Kadina and did not return to Norwood the following year until after the pre-season trials. An injury to Linley Wilson, the incumbent wingman, saw Brenton rushed into the league side for the second game of the season against West Torrens.

He played well and retained his place for the next game against West Adelaide. On this occasion he won plaudits for an outstanding last quarter. The match report said that it was two great dashes by Brenton late in the game that was influential in Norwood hanging on for a narrow win.

It seemed Herbert had made a successful return but misfortune awaited. In the next game against Glenelg, early in the second quarter, he sustained what proved to be a career ending knee injury. 

Twice Herbert Brenton had a promising career thwarted by the curse of injury

B Ridge April 2020