Saturday 6 September - Melbourne Ground
Melbourne 1
Richmond/East Melbourne 0 (half time 0-0)
Melbourne win by 1 goal
Goalkicker: T. Reade 1
The opposition were made up of 10 players from each junior club. At kick-off only 17 Melbourne players were available, but two more arrived during the game to make it 19-20.
Melbourne returned the kick-off to the combined side's end immediately, with the combination not playing well as a team and initially unable to clear the ball. Eventually after the home side had blown a couple of good chances, the united team rushed forward and kicked behind. It was their only attack of the half, and the ball was sent back towards their goal.
Reade arrived as 19th man, and turned the game in Melbourne's favour by offering a strong marking option. Eventually he scored the only goal of the day, converting a place kick from over 40 yards out.
During the game the crowd caused so much trouble encroaching on the arena that play was suspended while players ran around the boundary line forcing them back so the game could recommence.
Best were Reade, C. Carr and Byrne.
Media
Australasian - 13/09/1873