By Mark Bruce

Gravesend are up and running at the fourth attempt in Regional 2 South East after a 25-10 win at Thurrock.

Fittingly, Saturday’s game was 94 years to the day when these teams first met and both sets of supporters were entertained by what was an enthralling encounter despite both sides’ winless runs so far this season.

A severely depleted and patched-up Gravesend could be forgiven for being tentative in the early exchanges, but when their set- piece worked it was no surprise that they managed to get on the scoreboard. It was debutant Brandon Dhesi who made the breakthrough with the first of his two tries, the second coming just before half-time to give Gravesend a 10-5 lead.

Despite their set-piece dominance Gravesend struggled to get clear light between themselves and their hosts. Thurrock continued to play a high-tempo game and would have had more reward had they not contrived to drop the ball when it seemed easier to score.

Top try scorer Samraj Chahal added to his tally with a brace of tries in the second half to ensure that Gravesend came away with maximum points while a fine penalty from Zac Filmer concluded proceedings.

Gravesend’s next opponents are Reeds Weybridge, who visit on October 12.