Mellish RFC U12s Tournament. (David Crosbie Memorial)

Matlock started with a fortunate draw against Ilkeston with just one try being scored in each half.
Next up were the hosts, Mellish, the Matlock team were lucky to come away with a 10 points to 5 defeat, more than they deserved.
The temperature was high 20s and the lads were starting to wilt but no let up as the next game started nearly immediately against great rivals West Bridgford.
Matlock started better and got their noses in front with a well worked try but faded in the second half to come away with a draw.
Mad dogs and Englishmen started to swell the watching supporters and it looked like we could be receiving a wooden spoon but rumours circulated of strange results all day.
Ashfield were our next game and, bless them, the lads played some rugby as they can and stormed in 5 unanswered tries. This gave the bonus points to forget about wooden spoons but to meet West Bridgford in the Final.
Matlock were the better side but without co-ordination or communication and to finish off the 3 Cs, not much commitment. The game ebbed and flowed in midfield with more than a few clearing kicks by Bridgford, one of these into the Matlock half saw a turnover at the loose, THREE MISSED TACKLES BY MATLOCK, and the only try of the game saw the trophy go to West Bridgford.

Some Matlock players appeared to think their season started and finished with a fine display last week. Well, that might be true, but not if they want to win festivals. Everyone on the field needs to shoulder their responsibilities and want the ball. A lot of work still to be done.

Well done to West Bridgford.