THURROCK defied the odds to secure a morale-boosting victory against high-flying Chichester and give their London One South survival hopes a significant boost.

In heavy rain, Thurrock were able to reverse the heavy 50-17 defeat they suffered in the south coast earlier this season by claiming a 20-10 triumph and make it five wins from the last six home matches.

The visitors didn’t get off to the best start after a late arrival at Oakfield but that didn’t stop them in the early stages.

Chichester dominated the match for the first 20 minutes but resolute defence kept them at bay and Thurrock gradually grew into the game.

After a sustained spell of pressure Chris Shorter was bundled over the line for the opening score.

Fly half Jake Barrand added the conversion but Chichester came back and from a catch and drive they reduced the deficit to 7-5 at half-time.

A tight start to the second period saw neither side able to get on top and it took 20 minutes and a moment of brilliance from Sonny Gay to put Thurrock clear.

Gay showed deft feet to tiptoe down the line, outpace the covering defence and score, with Barrand again adding the conversion.

Barrand extended the lead with a penalty to move Thurrock 17-5 ahead before the visitors scored their second unconverted try to stay in contention.

But another Barrand penalty handed Thurrock breathing space and a deserved win.