Report:
Talk before the game was largely based around our concern over the abscence of Melbourne Max who, due to injury, could not make the game. Secondly, who would run touch?Following "little" Judge's shocker last week!

Melbourne received the kick-off which led to a scrum being set on halfway as the kick didnt go 10m. Following early pressure by the home team it was Bosworth who opened the scoring with a penalty left of the posts following an infringement for not rolling away quick enough.

This would be one of only a few rare visits to Melbourne's 22 in the first half, as the home team decided to "crank it up" and play some rather nice rugby.

The first score was taken well following a great passing sequence around halfway. The jinking, sprightly Lowery ran through Bosworths defence to touch down left of the posts which was converted well by Holden.

Sadly Lowery's speedy darting running was his own undoing as he seemed to cause himself what can only be described as motion sickness thus forcing his replacment by Iliffe.

Melbourne were soon awarded a penalty for a tackler not releasing, which was duly taken and converted by Holden.

A second score soon followed as Melbourne's very own angry geordie scythed through two static defenders, around the fullback to touch down centrally for a converted try.

Bosworth wanted to turn the game into another dog fight and were happy to send their big boys crashing up but defence was resolute and turnovers were key again with Olly "Terrier" Page and Mark "Nuisance" Coyne making notable steals and contributions.

Melbourne soaked up pressure from Bosworth and were quick to exploit space through kicking or running options. Melbourne's kickchase was particularly good through pressure by Howard and Iliffe.

Bosworth were continually looking to get their gargantuan 12 into the game but Joe "Smash" Stuart kept him under lock and key, with one massive hit leading to both a knock on and face full of mud for the unfotunate player. A bit of whooping and back slapping followed.

The next try came from what had been a stellar lineout performance from the green army. Strong running and good offloads led to Rob "The Reliable" Hollinsworth breaking Bosworth's defence to go over for Melbourne.

A yellow card was awarded to Chris "The Mighty Zulu" Purce for an unfortunate slip (in the local pitch bog) which led to a tip (ish) tackle. Purcey never one to complain, duly apologised, took his yellow and had his ten minute water break.

Melbourne continued to press for points and field position whilst down to fourteen.

Halftime: 22 - 03

The second half can be condensed and summarised as follows:

Tackle upon tackle by Melbourne's defensive line, who weathered everything that was thrown at them... except for once...when the defence was breached for the first and only time, as Bosworth ran the ball beyond the deadball line for a 22 drop out.

MoTM was close with Hollingsworth, Lowery and Coyne having great games. However, Pagey pipped it with a superb and rounded performance.

This result was earnt through a resolute, focused and determined squad effort. Overall a pleasing and deserved win.