The arduous journey to meet Dolgellau in Round 2 of the Swalec Bowl had already been eased for Monmouth by beautiful scenery traversed in lovely weather.

Dolgellau, whose youngish side is riding high in Division North, were lively and eager from the kick off with the advantage of a strong wind at their backs, but it was also apparent from the start that Monmouth's front five were again likely to play a significant part in the result.