Swalec Division 5 East League leaders Hafodyrynys lost their unbeaten record last Saturday (22nd October) as Monmouth's stronger set piece play formed the foundation of a stirring game and an excellent if close victory over them.

But it was not plain sailing as Hafod were first to score just minutes into the game, driving over the line for a seven point lead.

Monmouth rode the initial shock and were soon pressing at the other end of the field and in a mirror image move they, too, scored when flanker Ed McCord finished off the drive for the line.

Fly half Rhys Ricketts failed to convert from far out on the left, but the visitors were more fortunate soon after as they extended their lead with a penalty to five-10.

Playing with the wind and the slope, Hafod when once again encamped in Monmouth's 22 metre area, took a quick penalty and added a further unconverted try despite the attentions of two tacklers.

Luckily the blustery wind was impeding the kickers as the 10-point gap was going to be a sufficient challenge to overcome in the second half.

Catch up rugby was now the order of the day, but the power of the Monmouth pack was bound to have tired their opponents, and intelligent kicking using the slope and the still strong angled wind should ensure greater territorial dominance.

For full story see Beacon 26/10/11.