The game was played with a strong wind assisting the team attacking the changing rooms. Melbourne won the toss and started with wind assistance. 

Match Report

The Melbourne forwards quickly got the upper hand on Rolls Royce's pack pinning their opponents in their 22. Rolls Royce resisted well but couldn't relieve the pressure due to the conditions.

Paul Bignall gave the visitors the lead after 15 minutes finishing of a scrappy phase of play with characteristic tenacity.

Melbourne went further ahead when Dave Woodburn, showing his class, opened up the Rolls Royce defence to scare two tries, one converted

Rolls Royce came back strong in the second half scoring two tries and one conversion. The game was effectively won in the final quarter when

Andy Futon broke down the left hand flank evading two tackles to score under the posts, Dave Woodburn converting.

Royce's final try came with two minutes to play but they missed the conversion and a chance to draw level.

Melbourne gave debuts to Richard Gregson, Andy Heathcote, Chris Moore and England Deaf International Leigh Pruce.

A. Basra, (a.k.a Bazz), won the man of the match award.

Scorers

Tries: Paul Bignall 1, Dave Woodburn 2, Andy Fulton 1