CAPTAIN Callum Hurn saluted the effort of his weakened Melksham side as they were defeated by title-chasing Marine.

A reshuffled side saw second and third team players called upon, with several first teamers unavailable.

Supermarine scored three unanswered tries before Melksham were able to get going with a pass out of the tackle from Hurn allowing Dave Dyke to dartg in for a try, converted by Simon Foster.

Supermarine led 24-7 at half time and three more tries after the restart stretched the advantage.

Foster crossed the line again for Melksham but was unable to add the conversion and Rob Thorne added a further try.

Hurn said: β€œIt was always going to be a tough day, but the lads played for a full 80 minutes. Players carrying knocks returned to the game showing great heart.’’

MORE SPORTS NEWS & PICTURES IN FRIDAY'S WILTSHIRE TIMES