Saturday, 17 October 2026 marked exactly 90 years since Harwich and Dovercourt Rugby Club played their first competitive match, recording a 41–0 victory over Orwell Works.

Hoping to repeat the success of that historic day, Harwich travelled to top-of-the-table Thurston Rangers for their first away fixture of the season after opening the campaign with three successive victories.

The hosts enjoyed long periods of possession and territory, but Harwich absorbed the pressure well and remained firmly in the contest throughout a competitive first half. Andrew Sterry crossed for Harwich’s opening try, with captain Sam Parker adding the conversion.

A closely fought opening 40 minutes saw little between the sides, with Thurston taking a narrow 10–7 advantage into half-time.

Half time score: Thurston Rangers 10 – 7 Harwich and Dovercourt

The home side began to take greater control after the restart, however, and a succession of scores saw Thurston extend their advantage to 23–7 and then 28–7.

Harwich managed to reduce the deficit to 28-10 with a Sam Parker shot at goal, but Thurston finished the game strongly. Three further tries without reply gave a full-time score of 47-10 to Thurston.

Final score: Thurston Rangers 47–10 Harwich & Dovercourt
Harwich return to Wick Lane on Saturday, 24 October, when they welcome Bury St Edmunds III.