Melrose overcome battling Jed

JED-FOREST

17

Melrose began their defence of the BT Cup with a battling win last night at Riverside Park to reach the quarterfinals.

Jed, hoping to win promotion, and unbeaten at home this season, fought hard and led 7-6 at one point with a Darren Gillespie try converted by Ewan Scott before Melrose power and experience power paid off.

Melrose led 18-7 at the interval with tries by Grant Shiells and Bruce Colvine, Craig Jackson converting one and kicking two penalties.

Jed were inspired after the break, and Lewis Young touched down, before tries by Ruairdh Knott and Jackson, pictured, both converted by Jackson, who had earlier kicked his third penalty, made the tie safe.

But Jed had the final say when Callum Young broke through from halfway to touch down.