BRAVEST OF LIONS

Taylor pays respects to mate JPR, who died this week

- Mike Walters

BRAVE to the point of a reckless disregard for his own safety, JPR Williams - a player so good his initials were sufficient identity - flung himself in harm's way.

Scotland winger Billy Steel, attempting to hurdle the tackle, caught the last line of defence in the face with his knee, and the great Wales full-back was forced to retire hurt with a fractured cheekbone.

To widespread astonishment, Williams reappeared at the post-match dinner four hours later, chewing defiantly on his steak when every mouthful must have been an ordeal by cement mixer.

It was one of half a dozen serious facial injuries JPR sustained in a golden age for Welsh rugby.

By far the most gruesome was his collection of 30 stitches after being stamped on and raked at the base of a ruck while captaining Bridgend in a tour match against the All Blacks.

After being pieced back together, he rejoined the fray and delivered the beaten captain's speech at dinner with blood still trickling down his face.