LEADERS Thurrock head into today's heavyweight Counties 1 Essex clash with second-placed Campion knowing that victory would open up a 12-point gap at the top of the league — a huge incentive in what promises to be a physical, high-tempo battle.

The match is set to see Leo McCarthy make his 1st XV debut, continuing the proud family legacy of his father, former Thurrock captain Paul McCarthy.

Leo McCarthy

There's also a major boost with Alex Jones returning to the matchday squad for his first appearance since April 2024. After a couple of seasons away from rugby, Jones brings power, work rate, and valuable experience into the side at exactly the right time in the campaign.

This will be the third meeting with Campion this season, with Thurrock winning both earlier encounters, winning the league encounter at Oakfield 43-19 before also coming out on top in the Cup game, 49-17.

The match at Cotton's Park will be streamed live on Thurrock's YouTube channel, https://youtu.be/6aTsdcA5W8Q

Thurrock's 2nd XV fixture has been cancelled, with Romford unable to field a side.

After the intensity of their derby clash with Thurrock, Stanford-le-Hope will hope for a morale-boosting home win against Billericay at the Rec this afternoon. The visitors sit seventh, two places above Stanford.   

In Essex Division One Pegasus Palmerians make a testing trip to Wanstead Seconds, who are top of the table with seven wins from nine fixtures. Pegs are eighth, with three wins to their name.

In Division Two Thames are at home to Upminster Seconds. 

Following the win at home before Christmas against Sutton (29-0), the T-Birds resume the second half of the season away to Richmond tomorrow (Sunday, 11 January 2,30pm).

Here's the live stream link to the Richmond game: - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LtRtplH0To