FOUR rounds of matches remain to decide the title in the Monmouthshire Short Mat Bowls Association League this season, reports HAYDN HOLDER.

Last week, Magor hosted Devauden and got off to a good start, winning both triples to lead 36-18 at half time.

However, Devauden put in two very strong performances in the pairs to make the final score 48-61 and claim the two-point winning bonus.

Usk then entertained Mathern and although all matches were fairly close, they secured both triples and one pair along with the overall win to take eight of the 10 points.

All teams have now played 10 matches and reigning champions Dingestow hold an 11-point lead over second-placed Caerwent, with Caldicot a further five behind.

The league is far from decided, however, with 40 points to play for and the leaders due to face both challengers and a tricky visit to Little Mill, before ending the campaign at home to Usk.

Meanwhile, having been deluged by the Storm Claudia floods back in November, Monmouth Bowls Club have now restarted short mat bowls on Thursday evenings at 7pm at the clubhouse.

Club nights have also restarted on Mondays, 7pm to 9pm.