The last few weeks has seen Monmouth Druids experience the ups and downs of a rugby season. From the highs of a tour to Hong Kong in the presence of rugby legend Jonah Lomu to the lows of a semi final defeat by Garndiffaith in the Ivor Jones Cup. The season continued against very old rivals Usk and this meeting, unusually, was the fourth encounter between the two sides this season, made possible by both sides having a space in the calendar. Having beaten Usk on the three previous occasions the Druids were shocked when Usk took an early lead on a sun drenched Chippenham Mead. From a quickly taken penalty their outside half touched down between the posts and he duly converted to give the visitors an early lead 7-0. This stung the Druids into retaliation and Flanker Gareth Rowlands ripped the ball clear and sped over from 25 metres. Outside Half Rob Frost converted to bring the scores level. Usk refused to be subdued and scored another try when their right wing burst over from a scrum close to the Druids line. Again this was converted by their Outside Half to give Usk the lead. Again the Druids fought back and from a rolling maul Hooker Max Dycke dived over to score the try, which was converted by Rob Frost. As the second half progressed the Druids teamwork was beginning to tell and they were gradually getting a grip on the game. From the lineout where Andy Howells again won good clean ball to the Centre where veteran Centre John Jeffs tackled well and was posing a threat with his skilful running. A fine back movement with good passing continuity saw Centre Mattie Morgan dart over in the corner for an unconverted try. With the resulting territorial advantage the Druids were squeezing Usk out of the game and they deservedly increased their lead when Gareth Rowlands raced over for a try which was improved by Rob Frost. As Usk heads dropped the Druids took full advantage by scoring two further tries through Wing Jack Butler and Full Back Ian Jeffs-both were unconverted. This win gave the Druids an unprecedented fourth victory against a spirited Usk side who were overcome by the collective teamwork of the Druids. A record breaking fourth victory in a season over Usk-will it be equalled or bettered-maybe in another 100 years? |