Melksham RFC 23-8 Devizes II – Dorset and Wilts Division One North

MELKSHAM RFC welcomed rivals Devizes in a clash before Christmas.

The forwards control at the scrum, generating ball for the backs to use. This sustained pressure was absorbed by Devizes, finally cracking to concede two penalties duly taken by Simon Foster to move Melksham into the lead 6-0.

Repeated infringements slowed the initial pace of the game bringing Devizes within striking distance on a Melksham penalty, well taken, to see Devizes on the score board.

A dogged encounter continued until half time 6-3. The tempo continued on similarly in the second half, Melksham adding another 3 points from a penalty until Devizes took an opportunity from a kick to the corner to catch and drive for 5 points bringing them to within 1 point.

Deep into their half Melksham recovered a ball to their pacey winger Rory Mulgrew who raced down the touch line to go in under the posts for his first try for the team, the conversion added by Foster.  An 8 point cushion was further extended by Phil Williams making a characteristic break midfield, through defenders, to score under the posts, Foster converting. The final score 23-8. The new players in the team were joined in the second half by Jack Hiscox in his debut from the bench.