Thurrock 44, Leighton Buzzard 10

THURROCK captain, Charlie Russo was so beset by injuries a couple of years ago that there were those who doubted he would ever get back to his best. Of course, this fearless warrior was always going to prove the doubters wrong as he continued to lead his young team into battle whil making his 200th appearance on Saturday, 12 March.

It was vital that the home side continued their momentum after the fine display against Colchester.

Niall Clifford is posing all sorts of problems with his ultra combative interpretation of fly-half play and a beautiful switch with the equally impressive Henry Bird was only ever going to produce one outcome!

The returning Tom Worsfold converted.

It wasn't long before the visitors replied. After some dominant tackles by Joss Nunn and Jack Cowman, a misdirected pass was intercepted for the equaliser.

Thurrock stormed back and had soon benefited from some hard carrying by Elonas Butrimas. The dependable Tom Worsfold converted before consolidating the lead with a penalty.

Two yellow cards limited momentum, but great work by the pack and a powerhouse break by Henry Bird was only the hors d'oeuvre before the splendid Kodie Holloway seized on his opportunity to control the outcome of the game.

Next, it was time for Dan Stone to enhance his reputation as a high class finisher. After a speculative kick ahead, Stone pricked back his ears and out kicked the whole defence to score out wide.

Kodie Holloway and Joss Nunn were powerful and dynamic in carrying and tackling, with Jay Jennings and Caolan Watts-Adams prominent in the loose. Indeed, it was Watts-Adams who drove over for the next score.

Thurrock are starting to play with real belief and a rampaging run by Frank Wright saw Ant Catchpole in support. Ahmed Aminou was in the thick of the action and Tom Worsfold giving real service at full-back. Tom Saunders has a very quick service and has been a real asset to the team.

Rob Murphy got the second best round of applause of the day when this popular player returned to the fray.

Winger Kye Holloway was forced to step in at scrum-half. Not unused to this position, the winger turned poacher as he latched on to a loose ball, went through the gears and sped fully 40 yards untouched to mild amusement as he executed a "Hollywood" dive into the corner. Ah well, "The days of wine and roses are all too few!"

The biggest cheer of the day was reserved for Charlie Russo's conversion attempt which was a little unconvincing , but removed the memory of his kick the previous week!

There is still room for improvement, even after two hundred games! But what a great career-so far!