In addition to the thrill of moving on to the third round draw of the Swalec Bowl last Saturday (5th November), victory by four tries to one was all the more sweet because it was away against Caldicot, who were promoted last season after only narrowly beating Monmouth to do so.

Despite several changes and new faces, Monmouth played with determination throughout and thoroughly deserved their win which was even better than the 10-20 winning margin suggests as a converted consolation try for the home team near the end flattered them a little.

Not all was perfect as both side's goal-kickers struggled with the wind and uneven surface but fly-half Rhys Ricketts more than made up for the points squandered with some superb tackling of strong running Caldicot individuals, an example which some of his colleagues could well emulate.

The pack gave as good as they got against a stronger front row than they have been used to of late, rounded off by a sterling display by all three of their back row players who all individually carried and foraged well.

For full story see Beacon 9/11/11.