Thurrock 2nds 2, Brentwood 5th 0 HOCKEY: THE 2s opening tie of the season in the NE14 HOCKEY Division 6SE was the potentially tricky visit of newly promoted Brentwood 5s.

Thurrock were able to field a near full strength side, and although the team hadn’t played together in months they quickly imposed themselves through Ashley Snell's effort from the top of the D.

Brentwood were given a lifeline when Mike Hewing deliberately brought down an attacker in his own D, but skipper Keith Mager saved the resulting penalty flick.

Thurrock had two new players on show at Palmer's, midfielders Jeff West and Nick Sheard, and both impressed their new team mates, West with his impressive work rate, and Sheard with his calm distribution.

The 2s put the points beyond doubt when Tom Madden capped a fine performance with a well taken goal.

l This week Chelmsford host the 2s.