This is one of a series of posts to mark the international Rugby players who served in, and survived, The Great War. If anyone has further information on the men concerned, I’d be most grateful if it could be added to the thread. Gareth Hiams, Harry played for Wales Internationals: 2 : 1912 I- F+ Harry Hiams was born n/k Played as a Prop for: Swansea, London Welsh War service: 183853, Gunner, later Serjeant, Royal Garrison Artillery He died on n/k
Harry Hiams also played for Llanelli and Aberavon and played against the 1912 South African tourists twice in the space of three days. He was in the Glamorgan side that was crushed 35-3 on 17 October at Cardiff Arms Park and then played a key role in Llanelli's narrow defeat against the Springboks at Stradey Park two days later. John Billot's 'Springboks in Wales' describes the match as follows: "Harry Hiams dropped goal hummed over the Springbok bar from 45 yards range and hundreds of delighted Llanelli supporters danced on to the field. Play could not be resumed as spectators thumped Harry on the back, shook his hands and even kissed him. The Springboks stared in wonderment. They were witnessing the unique crowd participation that makes Stradey a scene apart in world rugby. They also experienced the fire and tenacity of Llanelli's matchless spirit ont heir home ground. With a little bit of luck, the Scarlets could have won this game." They lost 8-7. Hiams was the only capped player in the Llanelli side, having joined them from fierce rivals Swansea. He returned to his club after the shock, eight try defeat of Glamorgan and told his club mates:" If we can't do better than Glamorgan, I'll give up playing!" The Hiams dropped goal came after the South African full back, Meintjies, missed touch. Hiams caught the ball 10 yards inside the Sprtingbok half and seven or eight yards in from touch. He took aim with his drop shot and sent the ball sailing over the bar for four points. Despite his heroics, he was dropped by Wales for the international match.
Born - 1886 Died - 10 April 1954 Swansea Position - Forward Teams - Swansea, London Welsh, Llanelli, Aberavon, Wales. Wales Caps - 2. Points : 0.
