CHELMSFORD led fourth-placed Thurrock for 65 minutes in their London One North clash before eventually losing 34-28.
Conceding three tries in five minutes allowed Thurrock to take control and, although the visitors responded with two late tries, the defeat left Chelmsford in the bottom three.
But the way they fought to the end after conceding some sloppy tries, pleased Chelmsford coach, Eddie Gooby.
“The players put in a massive shift and deserved the bonus point if not more,” he said.
“I am buzzing after this game, as we showed the passion fight and skill levels, which I am sure will push us on to better things.
“Both myself and the coaches could not have asked for much more from the players and they gave everything from numbers one to 18.
“If we can maintain this level of performance over the coming weeks we will be heading in the right direction in this league.”
Simon Hoult scored 23 of Chelmsford’s points with two tries, two conversions and three penalties, with skipper Paul Redford getting a try.
Chelmsford host CS Rugby 1863 on Saturday. Kick-off is at 2.30pm at Coronation Park.
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