In the next season, Stewart played frequently for the Wanderers making eight appearances. He was variously described as "keeps well on the ball and never flags" and "sticks close to the ball and follows up hard; a very useful forward". As holders, Wanderers were given a "bye" to the Cup Final in which Stewart was selected as one of the eight forwards. The final, played against Oxford University at Lillie Bridge on 29 March 1873 ended in a 2–0 victory for the Wanderers.