THE All Blacks couldn't get their hands on it enough but now some lucky collector will be able to hold on to it for good.

The rare opportunity to own the match ball which was used in Llanelli's never-to-be-forgotten victory over the All Blacks in 1972 has arisen.

Margaret Richards, 62, of Derwen Street, won the ball in a raffle on the day of the game and has now decided to put it up for auction — almost 38 years after the historic result.

The ball has been kept in a sideboard at her home but could now be worth a couple of thousand pounds.

Kicked over the Stradey Park posts by Andy Hill (penalty) and Phil Bennett (conversion), as well as being touched down by Roy Bergiers amid a maelstrom of scarves and Sospan Fachs for the game's only try, the ball was at the heart of the 9-3 victory.

Mrs Richards explains: "I went to the game with my first husband, I've still got the programme.

"While there I bought a raffle ticket and I couldn't believe it but I won the match ball after the game.

"It's part of the biggest day in Llanelli's history. Whenever the game is mentioned on television or in the press it's exciting to think I have a part of it in my house."

Mrs Richards confessed the autographed Gilbert ball has never been given pride of place. "It's been kept in a cupboard all these years because we never really got around to putting it out on display.

"My husband is a former captain of Furnace rugby club and we did ask them to display it but they wouldn't put it in a locked cabinet.

"I have no idea how much it is worth but am anxious to find out. I've decided to put it up for auction."

Graham Budd, a specialist auctioneer in the field of sporting memorabilia, who handles sales for Sotheby's, said the find was very exciting.

"Usually items connected to Grand Slams and Lions tours attract a lot of interest but this was a huge occasion, a fantastic day that and a historic day," he said.

"I'm sure it would attract a lot of interest, especially if it is signed by both teams."

Former Llanelli, Wales and Lions great Phil Bennett said: "I wish her luck. There's some great names on that ball and I'm sure it is worth a packet.

"It would be fantastic if the Scarlets could buy it for their museum or if it went to a supporter so it's kept in the area."

geraint.thomas@swwmedia.co.uk