For the first round of the Ivor Jones Cup, Monmouth Druids took the short journey to old rivals Usk Rugby Club. What faced them, were a big pack of forwards who were seeking to reverse a run of defeats by the Druids. The fact that Usk first team did not have a fixture helped the home sides cause. The early play favoured the Druids and they caused Usk to transgress the rules such that the referee awarded three penalty goals to the visitors. Outside half Greg Wilding kicked all three goals, all within 35 metres of the posts, to give the Druids an early nine-point lead. For their part, Usk responded with a penalty goal themselves from their fullback, Robinson. Just before half time, the Druids found themselves defending furiously, close to their try line. Suddenly flanker Joel Price, unexpectantly, broke away up field to the half way line. He fed centre Gareth Jones, who pinned his ears back and raced away with three or four Usk defenders giving chase. His speed carried him over in the corner for a fine try. Greg Wilding kicked the conversion with a splendid kick from the touchline to bring the half to a close. An early opportunity in the second half put the Druids well in command. From a line out, close to the Usk try line, the visitors moved the ball quickly and accurately along the threequarter line. Using his pace again to effect, Gareth Jones cut through to score his second try which was unconverted. To most observers this would seem to take the game away from the home side. Usk had other ideas and coupled with strategic substitutions brought real momentum to their play. Only resolute tackling kept their attacks at bay. To their credit, Usk continued the pressure and scored two more tries, one being converted, to make the score 21-15 to the Druids. The final whistle blew and the result was a fair reflection of the balance of play. The Druids took their chances and their defence limited Usk opportunities. For the Druids Prop David Bland, Hooker Max Dyke and Flanker Joel Price stood out whilst the kicking of Greg Wilding was first class and of course the speed of centre Gareth Jones.
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