FRINTON Golf Club fell at the final hurdle in the Thornton Cup Plate.

They were up against a strong Chigwell Golf Club at Crondon Park.

When Hamish Stubbs took a strong hold on the vital first match, winning 3+1 against James Edwards, Frinton looked in good shape.

However, Peter Irwin and Tig Tanner quickly fell to the experienced Jack Pringle (0) and Joe York (1) by scores of 7/5 and 7/6 respectively.

James Taggart won a tight match, one up against Rob Rangel to make it 2-2.

Reece Balls then lost a tight match 2+1 to Elliott Payne and Freddie Brett fell to Ronan Homer 4+2, meaning Chigwell had taken control at 4-2.

James Hide played steadily, ably supported by caddy Rob Trotman, and won comfortably 4+3 against Jack Lewis.

Frinton were now back in it at 4-3.

Simon O’Brien fought well against Chigwell captain Matt Andes but could not prevent a 7+6 defeat.

With Kevin Smith all-square and about to take command of match ten for Frinton, it was left to Mitchell McAuley to fight out the decisive ninth match against Chigwell’s Jon Bint.

In a see-saw match, Bint finally took control to win 4+3 and make it 6-3 to Chigwell.

Frinton captain Vince McAuley surrendered against Chigwell captain Andes.

Chigwell therefore won 6½-3½ when Kevin Smith and Will Walker shook hands on an honourable draw.

Frinton president Malcolm Withycombe was present and paid tribute to the team of caddies - Jason Balls, Jack Brooker, Scotty Boyle, Luke Brown, Chris Hemmingway, Rob Trotman, Peter Webster and Jake Wells.

Essex Golf Union officials commented on the excellent spirit and good sportsmanship displayed by both Frinton and Chigwell teams.