Melville's northern league season has been reinvigourated by a 3-0 away win over Hibscus Coast, ahead of the Unicorns first away derby match against Ngaruawahia since 2013 on Saturday April 26.

The Coast win was Melville's best of the season, fuelled by first goals of the season to Robbie McNicholas (pictured above), Jama Boss and player of the day Josh Galletly.

They now face their fifth away match out of six for 2025.

Ngaruawahia have yet to win a match this season and are at the foot of the table. If Melville can capitalise on that they will be well placed to advance from their current sixth place on the table. Even third place could be within reach depending on other results.

Last week Ngaruawahia drew 1-1 with Onehunga Mangere.

Ngaruawahia are coached by former Melville great Mark Cossey, with former Melville reserve team coach Kshitij Gohel assistant coach, and former Melville first team assistant coach Howie Bettridge as manager.

To add to the Melville flavour, Ngaruawahia also feature George Brown, who made 22 appearances at fullback for Melville in 2023 and is now with his fourth club in four seasons.

Melville will have coach Jarrod Young back on the bench after sitting out a one-match suspension for the Hibiscus Coast match after being red-carded against Cambridge.

Meanwhile Melville women will be looking to preserve their northern league championship lead, away to Cambridge at 1pm on Sunday. Cambridge are fifth, with two wins and two losses.

Article added: Friday 25 April 2025