Melksham ensured the battle for second place in Dorset & Wilts One North will be a two-horse race between themselves and Chippenham 2nd after edging out four-placed Calne.
The visitors started the better with some early pressure and were awarded a penalty, James Ponsford kicking the three points.
Calne responded with a try and a penalty, but Melksham continued to pile on the pressure though and, following 2 nicely-controlled rolling mauls, Josh Partridge claimed a try in the corner.
Calne struck back when the ball was spilled by Melksham and fly-half Matt Kelly was on hand to pick up and gallop over near the posts.
But the missed conversion proved to be very costly because following another penalty from Ponsford and another driving maul, Simon Watts picked up and powered over for Melksham.
Despite a late rally from Calne, Melksham held out for a well-deserved win.
Calne could do Melksham a favour this weekend when they host Chippenham 2nd and Melksham are at home to rock-bottom Corsham 2nd.
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