Monmouth Bowls Club have had another hard couple of weeks in the Gwent Bowls League Division 1, starting with a visit to league leaders, Croesyceiliog. All three rinks started reasonably well and at halfway in the 18-end match, any of the rinks could have gone either way. However, on 2 rinks, Croesyceiliog opened up comfortable leads while Monmouth took a substantial lead on the other. The final score of 70-52 to the home side was a fair reflection and the visitors had to be content with 2 points for winning one rink.

This Saturday, Monmouth hoped for a better result at home to Pontymister Athletic and, again the overall score was very close with only 3 shots dividing the two as one Monmouth rink held a reasonably comfortable lead, one lagged behind, while the third had pulled back from a slow start to get within 2 shots of their opponents. Unfortunately, as in so many cases this season, it was Pontymister who finished the stronger, leaving Monmouth with just 2 points for one rink win.

With only one match left to play, away at fellow strugglers, Newbridge, it is inevitable that, unless Bedwellty Park have disastrous results in their last 2 matches, these two will be meeting next season in Division 2. However, the performance of some of the new recruits this season gives every expectation that Monmouth can use the season in Division 2 as a chance to rebuild and bounce back, or even return to the 4-rink format of the MBA (Monmouthshire Bowling Asssociation) league structure.

New players are welcome and coaching and equipment are available. All a new recruit needs to start is a pair of clean, flat-soled shoes. Now is a good time to try bowls for the first time, with the green running a little quicker than it will be in April!