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Frank Machin (Richard Harris) a miner, lodges with a widow, Mrs Hammond (Rachel Roberts). His competitive nature and powerful physique mean that when he reads of the success and respect gained by the local rugby team, he decides to join and share in the glory. As Frank's career progresses, so too his brutal nature distances him from those around him. Success - and perhaps a new sense of insecurity - seems to make Frank harsher and cruder. He spends his money on Mrs Hammond freely but without understanding. The wedding of Frank's friend, Maurice (Colin Blakely) finally precipitates disaster. Watching the young couple, and Frank with them, Mrs Hammond surrenders to bitterness and guilt. She turns on Frank with savage reproaches. He responds instinctively with violence and finally leaves her. Stripped of his pride he almost comes to believe himself to be the performing ape of Mrs Hammond's taunts. When he can stand it no longer, he goes back. But Mrs Hammond has been taken to hospital. Fr