Melbourne draw with Loughborough in 1st v 3rd clash

Melbourne nearly snatched a late win against Loughborough.

A big physical and aggressive Loughborough side took the game to Melbourne having 75% territory and possession. Melbourne's defence was up to scratch again taking the lead twice and nearly stealing it at the end.

In a physical first half, Loughborough had the better of it but could not break down Melbourne's defence. Melbourne fronted up against an aggressive side with Euan and Pagey both taking late hits and Ben Burchell and Euan Holden being on the receiving end of some interesting footwork, unseen by the referee. Tommy Howard had to leave the field early after being dropped on.

Loughborough received a yellow card after a late tackle and shortly after this, Jack Pearce scythed through the middle, finding Ben, who popped to Joe Stuart to score. Euan converted. Loughborough penalty hit the post on the stroke of half time. 7-0 half time.

Loughborough piled on the pressure in the second half and scored a converted Try early on. Melbourne continued to defend stoutly. Line out was pretty good but it was tough at scrum time. Pretty even in the loose play.

A clearance kick on 67mins saw a great kick chase from 'nugget'. From the following ruck, Pagey sniped, bobbed and weaved his way in from the half way line with Euan converting again. 14-7.

Loughborough came back strongly again threatening the Melbourne line. Good play to the left saw a few phase before switching play to go right for the winger to score in the corner. Touch line conversion was high and good, and sportingly confirmed by the Melbourne players. 14-14. Ben Burchell was stretchered off.

Final 3 minutes saw Melbourne try for the decisive score and 1 last powerful run from nugget, saw him 1 on 1 with the Loughborough full back who was up to the task and from the ensuing ruck, Loughborough won a penalty, kicked out ending the game.

Final score 14-14

A fair result. Good physical side Loughborough and well organised with a good scrum and set piece. Melbourne lineout worked well. Backs sharp. Both sides defences dominated. Melbourne took their couple of chances well.

Next up and last game before Christmas is Market Bosworth away on 17th. Christmas jumpers compulsory.