Melton RFC Vets battle through to county cup final

Hosting Hinckley Vets, the tie proved a hard-fought battle with both sides opting for close contact attrition rather than an open running game.

Simms, Wade and Stapleton dominated the front row for Melton, but the visitors worked hard and put the first points on the board.

However, great defence from Cox, Clemons and Evans kept the visitors from scoring again.

Matt Brookes worked and tackled tirelessly, and when he turned the ball over, captain Richard Meakin was able to side-step two players and make a 20-metre run to the line for a great try.

Good dogged work from Moore and Twidale kept the visitors starved of possession, allowing Melton to close out the game for a great win.

Coach Ed Raine said: “It was the best game I have seen the Vets play in the last four weeks/.

“I’m looking forward to the home final next month.”

Melton will host Loughborough in the final on Saturday, May 6 (kick-off 3pm).

Melton: R. Stapleton, A. Wade, D. Simms, Monterano, R. Meakin (c), T. Berry, M Brookes, Greeves. T. Misuda, T. Berry, M. Twidale, P. Moore, A. Stockdale, R. Evans, M. Cox, S. Clemons, B. Shouler, J. Miller, Pigsy, O. Chapman.