Nial Mellis Memorial Rugby Match

Wells Cathedral 1st XV 21–24 Wells Rugby Club

The Niall Mellis Memorial rugby match provided a fitting occasion to remember Niall, bringing together Wells Cathedral 1st XV and Wells Rugby Club in a fiercely contested and memorable encounter.

It was Wells Rugby Club who made the brighter start, crossing for the opening try and successfully adding the conversion to establish an early 7–0 lead. Rather than unsettle Wells Cathedral, however, the early setback sparked an immediate response. Wells Cathedral found their rhythm and produced an excellent spell of rugby, scoring three unanswered tries to turn the game around and establish a commanding 21–7 advantage. 

The Cathedral side looked to have seized control, but Wells RFC were not prepared to let the game slip away. The Rugby Club responded with determination, scoring two further tries and converting both to bring the scores level at 21–21. The comeback ensured that the match was finely poised going into the interval, with both sides having contributed to an entertaining and highly competitive first half.

The second half developed into a thoroughly physical encounter, with neither side willing to give an inch. Both teams created promising opportunities to take the lead, but handling errors and resolute defence meant that neither could find the breakthrough they needed.

With just a few minutes remaining, the decisive moment arrived. Wells Cathedral conceded a penalty within kicking range, and Wells RFC made no mistake, successfully sending the ball between the posts to move ahead 24–21. Despite a late push from Wells Cathedral, the Rugby Club held on to secure a narrow victory. For Wells Cathedral, it was an agonising way to lose a match in which they had fought back from an early deficit and competed throughout.

However, while the result belonged to Wells RFC on this occasion, the true success of the day was the community spirit surrounding the fixture. Just over 200 people from the local community came out to support both teams, creating a fantastic atmosphere and demonstrating the strength of feeling behind an event held in Niall's memory. Among the supporters, it was a particular pleasure to welcome Niall's parents, Graeme and Rona, along with their wider family and friends. Their presence made the occasion especially meaningful and served as a poignant reminder of the person at the heart of the event.

The final score may have read Wells Cathedral 21–24 Wells Rugby Club, but the memorial match was about far more than the result. It was an opportunity for two local rugby communities to come together, compete in the spirit of the game, and remember Niall alongside the family, friends and wider community who continue to hold him in such warm regard.

On the field, Wells RFC took the honours. Off it, the occasion was a wonderful celebration of community, friendship, rugby and remembrance. A fitting tribute to Niall.

Report written by Dan Meehan, Head of Rugby