Ryszard Lech Krzywicki, known to football fans as Dick Krzywicki, carved out a notable career during the vibrant era of the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving an indelible mark on Welsh football. Born on February 2, 1947, in the coal mining town of Wrexham, Krzywicki’s heritage was one of resilience. The son of Polish parents, his father, a Polish Army veteran who survived Auschwitz, instilled in him a profound sense of determination, one that would serve him well in his footballing career.
Krzywicki’s journey into the professional ranks began at Leek CSOB, a local club where his skills caught the eye of larger teams. His breakthrough came when he signed for West Bromwich Albion in 1965, marking the beginning of a period that would define his playing days. However, his time at Albion was not just about making appearances; it was about creating milestones. In 1966, Krzywicki made history by becoming the first-ever substitute in a League Cup match for the club, stepping in for Doug Fraser in a thrilling encounter against Manchester City. His impact was immediate; Krzywicki scored a crucial goal as West Brom triumphed 4-2, a victory that added a special chapter to his personal narrative.
But the real magic came in 1968 when Krzywicki was called upon during an FA Cup match against Colchester United. In yet another historic first for the club, he became the first Albion player to be substituted in an FA Cup game. These early experiences at West Brom were the foundation for his career and demonstrated his ability to adapt to the evolving nature of football in the 1960s—where substitutions were becoming more common, and players’ roles were increasingly varied.
Krzywicki’s subsequent moves to Huddersfield Town, Scunthorpe United, Northampton Town, and Lincoln City saw him continue to grow as a player, adapting to different footballing cultures and styles. His versatility in midfield and attacking roles ensured that, despite the fluctuating nature of his club career, he remained a valuable asset wherever he played. Each of these clubs offered Krzywicki a new challenge, and with each step, he refined his craft, proving himself time and again in various competitions and divisions.
However, it was at international level where Krzywicki truly etched his name into Welsh footballing folklore. On October 22, 1969, Krzywicki earned his first cap for Wales in a 3-1 defeat to East Germany. Although the result was disappointing, his future performances ensured he would remain a key figure in the national team. Over the next two years, he made a total of 8 appearances for Wales, showcasing his technical ability and his knack for stepping up when needed. Perhaps his most memorable moment came during the 1970 British Home Championship when Krzywicki, playing against the reigning world champions, England, scored a goal that would cement his legacy in Welsh football history.
Nevertheless, despite his growing reputation, Krzywicki’s international career came to an end on October 27, 1971, with a 1-0 defeat to Czechoslovakia. Yet, even though he had only earned 8 senior caps, he had also garnered 8 caps at under-23 level, an indication of his importance to the Welsh setup during his playing days.
While his international career was relatively brief, Krzywicki’s contribution to Welsh football cannot be understated. He brought to the team a level of skill, versatility, and courage that would inspire future generations of players. Moreover, his achievements at club level, particularly his historic feats with West Bromwich Albion, ensured that his name would always be remembered by those who followed the evolution of the sport in the 1960s and 1970s.