Thurrock returned from Romford with a well-earned 37–26 victory after an eventful derby clash that reignited a league rivalry not contested since December 2014. On that occasion, Thurrock also took the win — and remarkably, Jake Barrand remains the only player involved from that match, once again making a major impact almost a decade later.

Thurrock opened the scoring through Jake Barrand, who slotted a steady early penalty to settle the side. Barrand then added a well-taken try, cutting through the Romford defence before converting his own score to extend the lead. A second penalty from the fullback pushed T’s further ahead as the visitors dominated field position and tempo.

The advantage grew when Kodie Holloway intercepted a Romford pass from a scrum and raced in untouched, capitalising on sharp defensive reading with Barrand once again converting. Thurrock at one stage held a commanding 20-point lead as the first half moved toward its close.

Romford responded strongly either side of the interval, capitalising on a shift in momentum and turning pressure into points. Their renewed energy helped them claw the deficit back to just a single point shortly after halftime, setting up a tense middle period with the match firmly in the balance.

Just as the game tightened, it was two former Romford players in Thurrock colours who delivered the decisive second-half blows.

Jake Jones struck twice in quick succession, first powering over following some good work from young Bill Bailey. It was those 2 again who combined as Bailey timed his pass to perfection for Jones to power in down the blindside for his second try of the afternoon. Barrand added the extras for Jones 2nd try

It was another former Romford man Anthony Catchpole who wrapped up the scoring for Tees, finishing from close range after sustained pressure from the Thurrock pack. These three tries in a dominant spell re-established control and moved the visitors into a winning position.

Romford continued to press and were rewarded with a late consolation try, but the result was beyond doubt by that stage as Thurrock’s earlier accuracy and strong second-half response proved decisive.

The victory provides Thurrock with valuable momentum and reinforces the character within the squad, having weathered a significant Romford fightback before finishing the stronger side.

Thurrock now have a 5 point lead at the top of Counties 1 Essex as they look to carry on their momentum when they host Upminster at Oakfield next Saturday in front of a bumper Christmas Crowd