LUCKILY for Warrington fans, they didn’t have to go far to see their favourite play his first World Cup game.
John Bevan, who was always going to be a hit in league after converting as a Wales Rugby Union, British Lions and Barbarians international, was on the right wing outside David Watkins as Wales lost 22-16 to England at Wilderspool in the 1975 tournament.
He was switched to his recognised left-wing spot for the 18-6 defeat to Australia in Swansea one month later, but surprisingly he was at stand off at the Vetch Field a few weeks later and scored his first World Cup try in the 25-24 defeat of New Zealand.
Bevan, back on the left wing, was on the score sheet again as Wales beat France 23-2 at Salford four days later in what was the final game of the tournament, with Australia finishing top of the table, England second and Wales third.
The former Cardiff winger was an instant hit with Wire fans after joining the club in 1973.
His Warrington and rugby league career ended 13 years later after scoring 201 tries in 332 games.
He could always be relied upon to score a crucial match-winning try, using his deceptive swerve, pace and strength.
And he would celebrate with the ‘Bevan Salute’, punching the air with a clenched fist as the supporters on the terraces responded in kind.
Bevan’s first season in rugby league coincided with Warrington winning the Captain Morgan Trophy, the Player’s No6 Trophy, the Challenge Cup Final at Wembley and the Club Championship.
Bevan, who also gained Great Britain honours with Warrington, won four more medals during his Wilderspool days and gave the supporters memories to cherish forever.
Log on again tomorrow for another feature on a Warrington World Cup hero.
Click on the following links to read about other Warrington World Cup heroes that we have featured so far.
Log on again tomorrow for another feature on a Warrington World Cup hero.
Click on the following links to read about other Warrington World Cup heroes.
Gerry Helme, Duane Mann, Allan Bateman, Steve Roach, Barry Philbin, Andy Gregory, Albert Naughton, Jerome Guisset, Jonathan Davies, John Woods, Dave Chisnall, Iestyn Harris, Jim Challinor, Bobby Wanbon, Lee Penny, Gary Mercer, Dean Busby, Bobby Greenough, Derek Noonan, Toa Kohe-Love, Mark Jones
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