LLANELLI bring 129 years of rugby at Stradey Park to an end tonight, with a new ground under construction.

Well before the Scarlets became a regional outfit, rugby's powerhouses have come a cropper in South West Wales.

In 1972, after thrashing a Western Counties side 39-11 at Kingsholm, New Zealand crashed 9-3 at Stradey Park on their tour of North America and Europe.

Coach Carwyn James inspired the club to the win, with Roy Bergiers scoring a try. Phil Bennett added a conversion and Andy Hill kicked a penalty.

Delme Thomas, captain against the All Blacks and former Wales and British Lions lock, said: "There is nothing like the atmosphere in Stradey Park on the big occasions.

" I have never experienced anything in my life like the day we beat the All Blacks in 1972. The place was absolutely electric.

"I was lucky enough to play all around the world but nothing came close to what we had at Stradey. "You could almost feel the crowd breathing down your necks – they were that close to the playing area, people swearing at you, encouraging you. You couldn't escape it."

In 1984, Australia claimed a grand slam of victories over England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland, having lost at Stradey Park.

The Wallabies were defeated again in 1992 – the year after they were crowned world champions.

Ieuan Evans touched down and former Wales fly-half Colin Stephens kicked two late drop goals to secure a 13-9 victory.

Former Llanelli and Wales winger Evans said: "I have so many warm memories of my time here.

"Stradey Park has stood tall and proud throughout history."