On a dull, cold and overcast day, Thurrock’s 4th team played some of their best rugby for some weeks. For once, from the off, Thurrock were relentless in their attacks, with their strong running and quick thinking backs, supplied by a determined pack. It was not long before wing Blane Daly went over in the corner, having had the pace to go outside his man. Shortly after, veteran Pat Gard went over in the corner, from a great driving 5 metre line out. This was his first try in over 20 years. The pack was now supplying good ball in all phases of their game, allowing the backs to run freely. Spike Adams was kicking very well out of hand at out half and the back row, especially debutante Elliott Keefe, were around the park well and winning some great turnover ball. Romford were battling well and it was not one way traffic by any means.
With further introductions of ‘fresh’ players in the 2nd half, Thurrock began to take even more control. Father and son, Micky and Richard Carter came on, as well as two 17 years olds, Andrew Nimmo and Taylor Bramley and debutante and for his first game of the season, Rees Collins. Brian Hunter took over tight head from veteran Roy North, who was playing against his old club – Romford. Finally Dave Graham came on in the back row. This injection of youth and experience took its toll on Romford and the tries came. Having been denied a ‘good’ try (as the ref was unsighted), Elliott Keefe stormed over from the resulting 5 metre scrum. Further tries came from debutante Reece Neil and young Matt Ulph went over for a further two tries. A great ending to a great game of rugby, with Thurrock running out winners by 37 points to 0.
There is no game next week for the 4ths, and then the League run in to Christmas starts again in earnest.
