Thurrock U16 v Billericay U16 Essex Waterfall Cup Round 3

Billericay travelled down to Thurrock RFC for their first match of 2022 which was a very tough away assignment in the Essex Waterfall Cup Round 3.
It had been 5 long weeks since the last match and only a couple of training sessions so it was probably to be expected that the boys were a bit rusty and this was definitely the case as Thurrock dominated the first half, immediately pinning Billericay into their 22 from the off. The result was an early try from the hosts which was well converted. 7-0 Thurrock. The Bees gradually began to improve and showed some grit in defence although Thurrock were always knocking on the door and generally dominating Billericay at the scrum. Against the run of play, Billericay snatched a try in the corner via a determined break by Aaron, his score went unconverted, 7-5 to Thurrock.
The hosts immediately replied and dotted down in the corner after some more sustained pressure, the try was not converted, 12-5 Thurrock, this was quickly followed by a penalty in front of the posts which was despatched successfully on the stroke of half time. 15-5 Thurrock and surely a mountain to climb for the black and gold....?
Some personnel changes at half time, an honest discussion on how to get back into the game amongst the lads and of course the 'magic tub of Haribos' gave Billericay a new lease of life and the second half was a different game altogether. The scrum was dominant and the offloading was quick and accurate and a wonderful passing move from a successful scrum found Harry D with some space to work with, a powerful run evading two Thurrock defenders and he was over, scoring under the posts which Ben P converted. 15-12 Thurrock and it really was game on!
The dominance from Billericay was starting to show, and the game was being played almost entirely in the Thurrock half, Jack picked up from the Number 8 position and powered through to give Billericay a deserved lead, the conversion was just off target but Billericay had their noses in front at 15-17, could they see the job through to the finish? You bet! Ben A at hooker capped off a fine solo try, evading tackles and diving in for the decisive score, Ben P delivered the extras and it was 15-24 Billericay, surely that was it? Thurrock never gave up the chase and grabbed themselves the final say with a well worked try in the corner against some tiring Billericay defence, the conversion was missed and the final whistle went! Thurrock 20 - 24 Billericay ! Well done lads, a memorable win and a terrific effort from everyone who played.
Looking forward to another tough match in Round 4 where Billericay will host Old Brentwoods.

Paul Bolton
Billericay RFC U16 Team Manager