Melbourne's unbeaten run came to end with a spirited performance from Ashbourne in the wind, rain and the dark denying Melbourne the opportunity to play their running game. Conditions were not helpful at all to Melbourne who did manage a losing Bonus point

The games we agreed on we predicted correctly.

Long Eaton were too strong for Lincoln with a bonus point 45-7 win. Long Eaton are steadily moving up the table.

Matlock also picked up a bonus point win beating Ashby 31-0.

All the other games were much tighter.

We agreed on the Newark v Southwell game but the scoreline of 20-6 suggests some hope for Southwell. They are along way behind though.

The 2 games we disagreed on saw pick up the spoils on both.

Dronfield edged Market Rasen 8-7. Loughborough also won a tight game against Ilkeston 18-16. Both Market Rasen and Ilkeston will be happy with bonus points.

The table sees Melbourne 10 points clear still though, with only 4 points separating 2nd-7th. Market Rasen remain in second with Ashbourne Long Eaton and Matlock all hot on their heels. Southwell remain 14 points adrift.

So the first half of the season ends next Saturday. Melbourne travel the short distance to Ashby hoping to get back to winning ways.

Preview Fri.