Melbourne started with the slight slope and played a territory game very efficiently keeping MR pegged back in their own half. Handling from both sides was an unfortunate side effect of the constant rain and a wet ball. Tom Warren was denied a try (probably harshly) for a double movement by the Ref (who BTW had an excellent game and probably the best we have had all season. Melbourne soon scored though, with Andy Martin (playing in the back row) picking up for a mazy run from about 30m, beating 3 or 4 defenders, to score under the posts. Euan converted. The half continued in the same vein, with MR occasionally making ground, but eventually being pushed back by tactical clearances. Scrums were pretty even throughout at the stage, though MR did gain the upper hand late on and lineouts also were pretty even. Conditions played a part all game. Euan kicked a penalty just before half time for a 10-0 lead.

The second half, unsurprisingly saw MR look to control territory. MR scored a fine Try themselves under the posts before Melbourne pushed them into the corner for a lineout from a penalty. Ball secured and 3 phases later Jack Pearce bullocked over from 2m. Conversion missed.
That was the final score of the game. MR had a succession of multiple phase rugby retaining the ball very well despite the conditions, but Melbourne's defence was up to the task and each of these multiphase plays saw MR gain little ground. A last minute penalty saw MR kicker push it wide. A quick tunnel and the players sprinted into the warmth of the changing rooms.

The 'D' was MOTM but the supporters from the bus opted for Tom 'Wazza' Warren, with Andy MArtin, Nuggett, Fish and Joe Livesey all mentioned

Photos to follow

Next week Matlock at home. 2.15 KO with the clocks changing