Thurrock 4ths 38, Chelmsford 4ths 14 RUGBY: THURROCK’s fourth string won this BL Plate League 5 semi-final in a match which saw Chelmsford shoved off every ball in the scrum and dominated in the ruck and maul.

Wing Tony Jackson started the scoring off by fielding a ball just outside his 22, beating four men with his hand off, storming down the wing and scoring under the posts.

Danny Holding was next on the score card following a break by Barrie Magnurson and a simple run in.

The Thurrock pack ensured the team scored again through back row Joel Henderson. However, Chelmsford hit back with a well taken try when the Thurrock defence was overloaded.

In the second half Thurrock did not have their own way.

Against the run of play Tony Jackson broke through and scored.

The Thurrock pack put Chelmsford under pressure, which led to hooker and Thurrock stalwart Lionel Hayward diving over a ruck to score.

Chelmsford made one last effort and their full back took a quick penalty and scored.

However, it was Jackson again who scored his third try of the afternoon. Men of the match were – forwards – Joel Henderson and backs – Tony Jackson.

Thurrock now travel to next week’s BL Finals day at Southend to play either Writtle or Rochford and this will be their sixth final on the trot.

THURROCK’S third string eased the BL Merit Finals day with a good win against Woodford at Oakfield on Saturday.

Early tries by Dirk De Villiers (two) Matt Wyman and Andrew Nimmo and three conversions by Blaine Kidd left Tees in the driving seat.

In second half Blain Kidd kicked a penalty with 10 minutes to go leaving final score 29-7.

This week Tees travel to Southend RFC for the Merit Day Finals.