Monmouth RFC knows no bounds to its ambitions, as it crossed the Atlantic Ocean to face matches in the garden state of New Jersey and specifically Monmouth Rugby Club, in their own back yard. Included in the 73 strong tour party was a Druids squad who faced a number of challenges. The first one being, the size of the playing area in Thompson Park, Red Bank. Its dimensions, particularly the width, would test any team especially one which had travelled 3000 miles and endured three nights of liquid attack and sleep deprivation. Monmouth (USA), started more promisingly and they generally kept their opponents on the back foot as both packs fought for early dominance. Gradually the Druids came through their lethargy and alcohol induced slumber to make the game more evenly matched. The visiting pack used the driving maul to good effect and Monmouth (USA) were finding it difficult to subdue the increasing number of Druids probes. One such attack found a maul close to the home side line with the Druids in possession. The drive was initially held but Druids second row Harvey Morgan, finally forced his way over the try line to open the scoring. The attempted conversion kick failed. Any thoughts that Monmouth (USA) would roll over was soon dispelled when from a concerted spell of attacking play their fast running centre burst through to score an equalising try which was not improved. The Druids hit back from a try which was fortunate as it could have been seen to have been scored from an offside position. Outside half Rob Frost kicked ahead, it was gathered by flanker Stuart Boyland who crashed over the home try line. Again the conversion kick was unsuccessful. Once again Monmouth(USA) were not to be beaten and they hit back with a try to bring the scores level once more. It was their forwards this time, who from a line out, forced their way over for a deserved score. The poor kicking form by the games kickers continued, as not surprisingly the conversion attempt failed to signal the half time whistle. The second period saw the visitors attempt to win the match but the home side, particularly their backs, strove hard to turn the game in their direction. Although on occasions, handling let them down, swift running threatened the Druids line. The winning try was the best of the match and deserved to win a game. A flowing three quarter move saw visiting scrum half Andy Tansil take a short pass to force his way over for an unconverted try and victory for the Druids. Monmouth(Wales) will gain much satisfaction from this result, overcoming tiredness and a resolute and determined home side. Monmouth (USA) were wonderful hosts and were invited to visit Wales for a reciprocal tour next year.
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