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There cannot be many better settings for a game of rugby than the iconic Stad de Skew on a sunny afternoon, where  rugby matches have been played since 1882. Indeed the decent sized crowd in attendance were not left disappointed as both sides served up excellent entertainment. There was even a match programme sold by a very enthusiastic seller (da iawn Iestyn).

The home side started on the front foot and were 8 points to the good in as many minutes through a well taken try by that bulldozing wing Bobby Cundick, and a penalty by Robbie Baldock. At this point the home side were well in control as backs and forwards combined to punch holes in a tired looking defence in which second row Ben Cunnington, and back row forwards Trigger Smith and Joel Evans were outstanding.

The visitors did manage a penalty to narrow the gap but this was soon wiped out through a superb individual try by Jamie James, whose chip ahead not only fooled the crowd, but more importantly the Hollybush defence.

The 15-3 scoreline stung the men from Blackwood into action and play for the remainder of the half took place in the home 22 as the West Mon defence was severely tested with centres Luke Royal and Cameron Jones standing firm.

Despite a resolute defence, a try looked inevitable until an interception by Wes Bodenham saw the West Mon winger run fully 90 metres to cross for a quite sensational try and give the home side a 22-3 half time lead.

The second half started badly as the visitors’ continued to pile on the pressure and at one point the home side were reduced to 12 players for technical offences. Hollybush took full advantage and with the inevitable push over try that ensued, it was game on again.

However any hope of a comeback was short lived as the home forwards gained control once again, and following good approach work by scrum half James Reed and the versatile Craig Buffin, the lead was extended through tries by Jamie James and Sam Cook, with Robbie Baldock converting one.

The last word went to the visitors who crossed for a well-deserved try with the last move of a game which was well officiated by Keiran Rowe. This was a most enjoyable game of rugby with the home side delighted to gain the 5 points against tough opposition.

A special mention to those unsung heroes in the front row in the shape of an ageless Duane Gardner, Robbie Taylor and Scott Morris, who were the foundation of the victory. It was also good to see Sion Griffiths making his club debut from the bench together with Owain Beard on his return after injury whilst Jordan Clark continued his good start to the season.

NB Post match saw club colour ties presented to a happy home skipper Luke Shelton and also the durable Scott Leonard, awarded for reaching 50 games for the club. Congratulations both.