MELKSHAM dropped out of third place in the table as they slipped to defeat at Minety.

A bright start gave Melksham an early lead.

From a set piece, the ball made its way out to centre Phil Stone who went over, with Simon Foster adding the conversion.

Shortly afterwards, a penalty awarded to Minety got them on the scoreboard.

The visiting forwards claimed the next score with a pushover try from a lineout, Alex Britten getting the ball down.

The momentum began to change with Melksham’s penalty count mounting.

Minety took advantage to gain both territory and a further three points to close the half 12-6 behind.

Penalties continued t cost the visitors in the second half as a penalty ate into their lead again.

Melksham reorganised but Minety struck with a converted try near the end.