A squad of 14 Monmouth Bears travelled to the Old Bristolians Tournament knowing that playing matches against English opponents and to English rugby rules would represent their sternest test of the season.
At the outset, they hoped to give a good account of ourselves as sole Welsh representatives, playing on their home turf and to their rules, so it was a phenomenal effort to come out on top as tournament winners.
Match one saw the Bears take on North Bristol. From the start, it was clear that there would only be one winner; the Bears tackled, rucked and mauled with great intensity, leaving their opponents reeling, after quickly establishing a three-try to nil lead.
Further tries after the break saw the Bears extend their lead, a late consolation try from North Bristol, being the only blemish on an otherwise faultless performance.
Try scorers: Josh Lewis (two), Alastair McIntosh, Will Ruck, Raphael Kefalas.
For full report see Beacon 09/03/2011.