THURROCK were edged out 20-15 by Medway as they lost their second home match in succession.

The home side did start the better though, with only a last-ditch tackle preventing Sonny Gay opening the scoring.

Several chances to make ground were missed from the kicking tee, only for Medway to convert a score soon afterwards.

Thurrock came back strongly and in their best period of the match just before the break, scored two excellent tries.

The first was scored by Jake Barrand and the other by Gay, with the latter converted by Barrand.

This put Dean White’s team 12-7 ahead going into the closing moments of the first-half.

Medway scored a penalty with the last kick of the half to make the score 12-10.

With the wind at their backs in the second-half, Medway kicked deep and good pressure from Medway saw them force the error.

From the subsequent scrum, Medway broke down the blindside to score a fine individual try under the posts.

Harvey converted to put Medway 17-12 ahead.

Thurrock pressed the Medway line hard and, once again, it was the visitors’ defence which ensured they remained in front.

Barrand did score a penalty to reduce the deficit to just two points, although that five-point lead was restored when a long-range penalty was landed.

Medway hit the post with a last-gasp penalty in a thrilling conclusion, as Thurrock ended with a single point to show for their efforts.

“It was another game that we feel got away from us,” said White.

“I felt that we were the better team on the day but we didn’t convert our chances and that’s what hurt us in the end.

“Medway are a good side and they’ve been tipped to win this league but we played some good rugby against them. We still have a lot to work on over this week but our performances are improving each time we run out.

“Our focus is now on Saturday’s game with Chobham.”