RUGBY FANS BLOWN AWAY BY GIANT WELSH LOCK KICKING INCREDIBLE PENALTY WITH NO TEE
A remarkable penalty kick from former Wales second row Allan Martin has been brought to light again by social media.
The two-time Grand Slam winner played in the iconic 1970s Wales side, winning 34 caps for his country between 1973 and 1981.
The huge kick at goal came in a famous 21-9 victory against England in the opening game of the 1976 Five Nations. Whilst second row kick-taking is something which has faded out in the modern game, back in the day Welsh number four Martin was famed and relied upon for his abilities putting boot to ball from distance.
There's no tee on the field here either. The mighty 6 ft 5in frame of Martin simply digs out a large hole in the ground with the heel of his boot, placing the ball on top.
He's out wide on the right-hand side, about 45 metres from the uprights, but the ball sails over with ease, using what appears to be a unique toe-poke technique.
The iconic, timeless voice of Bill McLaren narrates the perfect strike: "And here, a change of goal-kicker. The longer kicks being taken by Allan Martin, at 45 metres. Martin... hit it well, it's good, it is good!"
You can watch the kick below.
Former Wales fly-half Paul Turner said: "Even at time Panther with old leather ball kicking out of the mud (Toe Poke) from 40 plus angle. Unbelievable #NoSand #NoTee".
Other viewers couldn't believe it either.
"After digging a hole in the pitch with his heel!" said one.
"No tee and a two step run up too. Incredible." said another.
Martin didn't retire from playing rugby until he was 42, and continued to play veterans rugby up until the age of 50. Outside of rugby, the Port Talbot man was a PE teacher, and even started his own business selling sports and school wear, which his son now runs.
He has also lived out in the Western Algarve in a property the family have owned for over 20 years. You can read an interview with him WalesOnline did last year.
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2023-06-06T11:18:23Z dg43tfdfdgfd