Thurrock U14’s went into the game with Chelmsford 2’s knowing a win would put them into Essex cup final 1.

Thurrock's forwards started the game on the front foot after some great coaching during the week from Matt Goodman and help from first team players Anthony Catchpole and Captain Ben Timpson.

There were some big ball carries early on with Captain Max Ballard pulling strings, which had Chelmsford pinned in their half and defending well with the drift.

Thurrock finally got the breakthrough they deserved as the ball came out to the backs. Daniel Wells broke through on the wing but was caught just before the line. A swift pop up to the supporting Jack Thorp allowed Thurrock to touch down for the first try of the game. Daniel Cross went on to convert the difficult kick right from the touchline.

Thurrock forwards continued to be on the front foot, turning the ball over with some great jackling from Kai, Aaron, James, and the two Riley’s. There were also some big ball carries from Artie and Christian to keep breaking the gain line. Joe Bailey used the coaching he received mid-week to good use and controlled the scrum to keep the forwards on top.

After being pushed back, Chelmsford cleared their lines and the ball popped up nicely to one of the fast-arriving Chelmsford backs who broke through the line, but Thurrock recovered with Jack Thorp tracking back to make a great try saving tackle and forcing a knock on in the process. That was a close call.

Thurrock then got back into the Chelmsford half, forcing a penalty 10 metres out and with a clever set play that led to Aaron Gunpot touching down.

Chelmsford 0-12 Thurrock.

Second half began with the forwards continuing where they left off, but now Max Ballard and Daniel Cross starting to get the backs plays firing and bring wingers Samuel, Daniel and fullback Sonny into the game.

Chelmsfords excellent defence held strong until the last play of the game. Thurrock’s forwards forced a turnover and Max saw the opportunity to capitalise on the drift defence by throwing a dummy and touching down, which he followed up converting.

Final score: Chelmsford 0-19 Thurrock