JONATHAN Davies' three-wicket haul could not stop Monmouth Cricket Club's 2nds from a 28-run defeat at Vale 2nd in the 2nd XI Division Three of the Glamorgan and Monmouthshire League. The former first-team wicketkeeper stepped into the breach at the 11th hour and bagged 3-24 in a much-improved display from Luke Bowley's men. Davies' son, 12-year-old Wales youth player Ben Davies, also bowled and returned figures of 0-29 from nine economical overs in Saturday's match. Vale recovered from 26-4 and were indebted to an unbeaten 76 from Matt Harper in lifting the hosts to 168 all out in 43.5 overs. Luke Bowley (2-15 from nine), Richard Shaw (2-32 from nine) and Jake Bowley (2-36 from nine) all bowled well for Monmouth on a damp pitch. Bowley, Jonathan Davies, Ali Hay and Ruben Collin all held good catches, while wicketkeeper Harry King and Gwent Under-15 player George Williamson returned solid displays. In reply, openers Hay (25) and Tom Jones (22) gave Monmouth a good start but the visitors lost wickets and momentum, particularly against Iwan Davies (3-7 from nine). Shaw hit an undefeated 19, while the injured Rick Parkes (13 not out), Jonathan Davies (13), Collin (12) and Jake Bowley (10) all chipped in as Monmouth closed on a disappointing 140-7. Monmouth 2nds, who are sponsored by Ancre Hill Vineyard, host Machen 2nds at the Sports Ground this Saturday (1pm start). Meanwhile, Monmouth's Ben Davies will be in action for Gwent Under-12s in a representative match at Monmouth Cricket Club this Sunday. Gwent Under-12s are hosting Devon Under-12s at the Sports Ground in a match which will be starting at 1pm.