My Welsh Jersey looks to be same as JPR wearing on "cover" pic of tribute YT.
Back in the day... when players were amateurs and Jerseys were not used as advertising billboards
JPR along with several other players from the 70's were/are the LEGENDS of Welsh Rugby. Famous as players for Wales, and for The British Lions, when Welsh players comprised MOST of the players in the "British Lions" touring team... made up of players from the 4 home unions ( England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales). The British Lions toured NZ in the 70's... my formative years. JPR was a key player involved with the HISTORIC WIN by the Lions over the NZ Allblacks.
Quote:
Following the third Test the Lions led the series 2–1. The final game played in Auckland would require an All Black victory for New Zealand to draw the series. A draw or Lions victory would give the Lions a series win. Scores were level 8–8 at half time with a try, conversion and penalty each. The first 15 minutes of the second half saw the Lions land a penalty goal and the All Blacks score a try. With the scores tied 11–11, Lions fullback JPR Williams received the ball 45 metres out and attempted a drop goal, it was successful and put the Lions ahead 14–11. Williams's drop goal was the only one he landed in his Test career. The All Blacks could only manage three further points from a penalty to draw the game and give the Lions the series
JPR also spent some time living here in Auckland, as Dr/intern. Working/studying at Auckland hospital and Auckland University medical school. He was (it is said) a bit of a lad and a drinker back in those days.. I was attending Auckland Uni in early 70's and working there after that..so amazing our paths never crossed?
Quote:
John Peter Rhys Williams MBE FRCS (born 2 March 1949) is a former rugby union footballer who represented Wales in international rugby during their Golden Era in the 1970s. He was known universally as J. P. R. Williams (or sometimes just as JPR, to distinguish him from teammate J. J. Williams, also John). Playing in the position of fullback, he was noted for his aggressive attacking style. With his long sideburns and socks around his ankles, "JPR" was an iconic figure on the legendary 1970s Wales team.
He is one of a small group of Welsh players to have won three Grand Slams including Ryan Jones, Adam Jones, Gethin Jenkins, Gareth Edwards and Gerald Davies.
An orthopaedic surgeon by profession, Williams has continued to be involved in rugby since retirement, currently serving as President of the Bridgend Ravens.
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