It was the fourth meeting of Wales and New Zealand and the third victory by Wales – indeed, it was the last victory also, as New Zealand won the next 13!
Cardiff had played splendid rugby in beating the All Blacks 8-3 four weeks earlier and six of that side – five in the backs – were selected for the international match.
It was a match that rested on eight points to either side, when flanker Clem Thomas put up a cross-kick with his right foot from the left touchline and as the All Blacks hesitated, the Olympic sprinter Ken Jones of Newport swept in to touch down.
Cardiff skipper Bleddyn Williams was also chosen as the Wales captain and his partner, Gareth Griffiths, who had played on the wing for Cardiff, brought Wales back from 8-5 down as he returned to the match after having dislocated his shoulder.
Wales had scored a try by Cardiff forward Sid Judd, converted by Cardiff wing Gwyn Rowlands, but New Zealand hit back as flanker Bill Clark scored a try and wing Ron Jarden converted and placed a penalty.
When Griffiths returned, strapped up, Rowlands placed an equalising penalty before converting the Jones try, As New Zealand’s great commentator Winston McCarthy said: ‘It’s a try. A winning try.’
Related stories:
Wales v New Zealand classics
Llewellyn targets ultimate prize
Go easy says Mitchell |