Scarlets’ record try-scorer Andy Hill has passed away today, at the age of 78. Hill will be remembered as an all-time great Scarlets player, having represented the Llanelli club for 453 matches over 12 seasons.
Hill was an entertaining winger, with unmatched agility and pace in the Welsh domestic leagues. He holds the clubs try-scoring record with 311, and has also tallied up the second highest amount of points out of anyone in the club’s history. Hill recorded 2,604 points for the Scarlets, a feat only beaten by Wales and British & Irish Lions fly-half Stephen Jones (2,850).
Considered to be one of the best players to never receive a Welsh cap, Hill played during a golden generation for Wales and was unable to break into the squad. However, the winger has taken on and beaten the best that international rugby had to offer, scoring a penalty as the Scarlets triumphed 9-3 over the All Blacks in 1972.
A complete workhorse who loved his club, Hill has twice played 50 matches in a season for Scarlets and achieved three pieces of silverware with them as well. Hill was apart of the Scarlets side that won the Welsh Cup in three consecutive seasons, from 1973 to 1975.
Scarlets Executive Chairman Simon Muderack said on the club’s official website:
“Andy Hill was a legend of Stradey Park, a player whose try-scoring record will surely never be beaten and to play more than 450 matches for a club is an incredible achievement. He was a big favourite with the faithful at Stradey Park and will, of course, also be remembered for being part of that legendary side that beat the All Blacks in ’72.
“Everyone at the club sends our deepest condolences to Andy’s family and friends at this sad time.”