The Pontypool front row is one of the most famous and loved names in Welsh rugby, a sign of pride. Between them they did a great deal in shaping the rugby scene of the 1970s. But they are more than rugby men, they are good men. Rugby was lucky to have them in that era. They were not only committed to winning on the field, but they were committed to each other off it too Graham Price thinks back on the special bond that existed among the three of them when they gathered to say farewell to a great one, their steadfast friend Charlie Faulkner.
The Unyielding Strength of the Pontypool Front Row
The Pontypool front row was known for their strength and stature. They never took a backward step for either club or country. Charlie Faulkner, one of the most iconic props ever, was a big part of this force to be reckoned with. He was tough as nails in the scrums. With a solid build and fierce attitude, he was a real problem for them.
Graham Price, who was the other side of the front row, regularly remarked that the connection between him, Faulkner and Bobby Windsor was unique. They were almost like telepathically informed of each other’s conduct on the field. Scrummaging was not all about techniques back then. It was more so a battle of strength and power at the time, especially so at Pontypool.
A Special Bond: Graham Price’s Tribute to Charlie Faulkner
After Charlie Faulkner’s passing news broke, Graham Price reflected on their relationship during their time together on and off the pitch. In interviews, Price says that Faulkner was not just a mate but a friend who made an everlasting mark on his life. Price mentioned that Charlie had an amazing presence when they were both younger. He never backed down from a challenge, no matter how tough it would be likely, and he was strong in character.
Faulkner’s impact wasn’t just because of his strength in the scrum. His loyalty to the game and his teammates set him apart. Price and Faulkner trained and played together for long hours creating an everlasting bond. Between them, they played a combined 673 times for Wales, and they could charge parking fees for being in the right place at the right moment.
Bobby Windsor and the Legacy of the Front Row
Bobby Windsor, the third man in the famous front row, shared a close connection with Faulkner and Price. Windsor was brilliant; he was the glue of the front row; he was the group leader. The powerhouse was Faulkner, but the tactician was Windsor as the front row was always united under him. The trio bonded well to take Welsh rugby to the next level.
Their partnership was crucial in helping Wales dominate the 1970s when they won numerous Grand Slams and Six Nations Championships. The team was able to prosper owing to the near rock-solid Pontypool front row who gave nothing in the scrummages and at the breakdowns. They remembered for their individual contribution to the game and their legacy lives on.
Charlie Faulkner’s Enduring Legacy
As Wales and the rugby world say goodbyes to Charlie Faulkner, the legacy remains a towering one. He was a giant in every way that had a lasting impact on the Welsh game. Graham Price, Bobby Windsor and many more of our teammates will cherish their moments with him always. The relationship they formed, alongside the wars they fought, not to mention the way they played, are now very much part of our history.
Charlie Faulkner’s death signals the end of an age but, still, the story of the Pontypool front row will inspire rugby players for all the years to come.
