THE relegation-threatened Thurrock men’s first team gave their survival hopes a boost by beating Phoenix 3-2 at Palmer’s in Eastern league division three south east.

Despite a bright start, the home side went 1-0 down against the run of play.

But Thurrock responded instantly and levelled when Julian Thalke was on hand to turn the ball home after Tommy Ing’s shot from short corner was saved.

Thurrock had the upper hand for the rest of the first half and they went in front when Stephen Edwards passed the ball into Christian Jenkins at the top of the D who smacked the ball home to make it 2-1.

Phoenix came out strong in the second half and put pressure on the home side and levelled things up when Thurrock conceded a controversial penalty flick which was converted.

However, Thurrock hit back and gained another short corner from which Ing stepped up to fire the ball into the bottom left-hand corner for his 10th goal of the season and the winner. The men’s second team were well beaten by Wapping VIII in divison seven.

Due to two late withdrawals, Thurrock played with 10 men against a strong Wapping side, eventually going down 6-0.

The ladies first team drew 0-0 with Ashford in division two south east.

Louis Parrot had Thurrock’s best chances but was denied by some outstanding saves from Alison Hadley in goal.

The ladies second team beat Phoenix II 4-1.

Currently third and on the same points as the second place team and only three points off the leaders Colchester, Thurrock are now well placed to challenge for the league.

Player of the match was awarded to Sally Willett.

The ladies’ third team lost 5-1.