Credible's Classic Matches - Wales v Ireland (1981)

Another classic from the vaults takes us back in time to a cold February Saturday afternoon in Cardiff for Wales' Celtic clash with Ireland.

Bridgend legend Gary Pearce (one of my former coaches) and Gerald Williams also of Bridgend won their first caps for Wales at a time when the national team was undergoing transition from the famous names of the 70s to newer caps whom it was hoped would carry on the fine traditions of Wales' 70s rugby... sadly, it wasn't to be.

That being said, though the 80s and subsequent 90s would be difficult times for Wales as a Rugby Union national side, there were a lot of good matches and high points - this being one of them.

Keep an eye open for Ireland's replacement #17 Gerry 'Ginger' McLoughlin - I played for Wales' development teams which included his son Emmett McLauglin, whilst Gerry's eldest son Fionn would play for both Wales and Ireland youth teams before playing for Shannon and then coaching Royal Tunbridge Wells RUFC years later.

Gerry, for many years, lived the other side of Llantrisant Common in Gilfach Goch and I am glad to have known him over the years - an Ireland and Lions star, and one hell of a character too!