Melton Hockey: Away day blues continue for First XI

The firsts went into the match aiming to build on the previous week’s draw despite travelling without several squad members.

Those that were available put up a good showing with the result not truly reflecting the way the game played out.

Melton took a defensive approach, trying to frustrate the hosts, and it almost paid off.

The home keeper was forced into good saves from Kendall and Hewitt, but the visitors could not keep Derwent out at the other end and conceded the first goal which has become something of a habit in the season so far.

The goal led to increased Melton pressure, with Derwent lucky to stay in front after Hewitt saw his drag-flick ricochet off the post with the keeper beaten.

The disappointment was compounded when Derwent subsequently doubled their lead moments later.

With Melton chasing the game in the second half, the hosts only looked dangerous on a handful of counter-attacks.

However, despite Eden keeping out his second penalty flick of the season, Derwent eventually managed a scrappy third goal to kill the game off.

The visitors continued to press, but the ball never ran quite right, and a disappointing afternoon ended with a frustrating 3-0 defeat which leaves them eighth.

Melton return to action on Saturday looking to extend their unbeaten home record, and forget about their troubling away form, when they entertain league leaders Ashby (12.30pm start).