Old foes Melbourne were the hosts as Belper;s impressive start to the season came to an abrupt end.

Belper playing with the wind in the first half found their advantage soon wiped out when Melbourne took an early lead from a penalty following handling on the ground, Belper defended doggedly, saving a try with some last ditch tackling. Minutes later they were further behind when a combination of missed tackles and good hard running from the hosts broke through despite the efforts of Blount and Inns stopping early charges, the ball was kept tight and Melbourne's 6 went over to extend their lead to 8 points.

Belper went back at Melbourne but a combination of handling errors and strong tackling meant Belper didn't really look like scoring a try, fortunately good pressure from England and Holmes lead to two penalties being awarded before half time which Blount slotted well from nearly half-way

Half time 8-6

The second half saw Melbourne use the wind to their advantage and each time Belper broke in attack, with Watson and Clay both looking potent, support was never quick enough and the ball was stolen away in possession. Melbourne would win and give it their 10 who would pin Belper back with a big wind assisted punt back into the visitor's 22. Melbourne scored a further 2 penalties and a converted try.

Following changes Belper rallied for the last 15 minutes with Watson unable to reach an Emslie pass just behind him near the corner when a try looked on and Belper kept on giving away possession at key moments or not passing early enough. It was Skivington who, following a tap penalty, charged in through 3 tacklers to score in the corner with the last play of the match, giving Melbourne a deserved win and allow them to swap places with Belper in the league.

Coach Barden told his players to keep their heads up and pull together ready for their next home game against league leaders North Derbyshire Panthers!!!!

2.30pm ko Strutts fields