By Phil Calverley

If the Academy's last game was a game of 2 halves this encounter with Mansfield RFC was a game of 1/3s. The first 1/3 belonged to Mansfield RFC who started strongly, using their big forwards and speedy backline to gain early momentum. The Mansfield RFC forwards dominated the breakdowns, and after a series of strong carries, were able to punch through the Melbourne defence. After 20 minutes Mansfield RFC led by 14 points and a long day at the office loomed for the Melbourne RFC Academy.

But in typical style, the Academy picked up the challenge and started to pressurise Mansfield RFC initially through the forwards and then with the backs. Both sides exchanged possession throughout the latter part of the first half, but at the start of the second half, it was Mansfield RFC who struck next. Then Melbourne RFC Academy started to regroup, showing more structure in their play and resilience in defence. A well-executed set of moves from a scrum and lineout pressured Mansfield RFC into errors and penalties which gave the Academy the chance to drive over for the start of an impressive comeback.

Melbourne refused to give in, and with ten minutes remaining, the forwards mounted a series of pick-and-go phases near the Mansfield try line. Their perseverance paid off, as they powered over from close range several times to bring the score to 21-21 after the final conversion. This pressure continued to the end but unfortunately without further points being scored.

The match ended in a fitting draw, with both teams showcasing their attacking flair and defensive resilience. Neither side could break the deadlock, but Melbourne RFC Academy were in the ascendancy as the game drew to a close. The pressure was mounting but at the end of time, the ball went dead with Mansfield RFC in possession and the final whistle blew for a well-earned draw.