Chippenham Mead has seen many thrilling rugby matches over the years, but few in which 65 points were scored and the result in doubt until the final whistle blew. Such was the fixture for Monmouth Druids against league leaders Pill Harriers.

Fielding another much changed side, the Druids were forced to play some newcomers and fill key positions by players who would normally play in other positions.

It was the visitors who were first on the scoreboard. Some poor up-front Druids tackling allowed Pill to charge into the home side's 22 metre area and touch down wide out for an unconverted try.

The scrums were also a problem as inexperienced players tried hard to win vital possession. Despite this, Druids captain Dave Brace kicked a penalty goal to make the score three-five to Pill.

Full back Jack Butler put the Druids in the lead with a try near the posts which Brace converted. There was an exchange of penalty goals and at half-time the scores were level.

For full story see Beacon 12/10/11.