Month: November 2024

Around the Ground

Around the Ground at the MTG

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

We’re once, twice, three times a winner…..

Canterbury Rugby Club has once again been crowned Rugby Club of the Year at the 2024 Club Mirror Awards, held last night in Leicester. This prestigious award, open to all rugby clubs across the UK, recognizes the incredible dedication and achievements of the entire Canterbury Rugby family.

Representatives Becky McKracken and Alice Hayward proudly accepted the award from former England International Chris Ashton at the glittering ceremony. This marks the third year in a row that the club has earned this honour, a testament to the commitment of players, staff, volunteers, and supporters.

Read the full story of this amazing achievement here.

Last weekend’s games

Henley Hawks 17 – 16 Canterbury 1st XV: The Hawks snatched a last-minute win over Canterbury, who led throughout a stormy match dominated by forwards. Despite an 8-point halftime lead and Frank Reynolds’ reliable kicking, Canterbury faltered in the second half due to penalties and errors. A late yellow card opened the door for Hawks’ Spencer Hayhow to score, with Max Titchener landing the crucial conversion for a dramatic comeback.

View full match report

Cranbrook 0 – 38 Pilgrims: Despite challenging weather, Pilgrims secured a commanding 36-0 victory over Cranbrook, maintaining their top spot. Prop Nathan Morris set the tone with two early tries, and Dan Gill marked his return with a brace to secure the bonus point before halftime. The backs adapted well, with Guy Hilton and Adrian Geddes leading strong counterattacks, while the dominant scrum and solid defence stifled Cranbrook. Debutant Henry Carruthers impressed with a second half try, and Sonny Trew-Neville added a sixth to seal the win. Pilgrims now prepare for a crucial clash against Heathfield & Waldron in two weeks.

View full match report

Canons 12 – 19 Old Williamsonian: The Canons welcomed Old Williamsonian to the MTG, braving the relentless challenge of extreme weather conditions. Riding high on their undefeated streak, the Canons showed grit and determination despite trailing by one score at halftime. The second half saw them fight back valiantly, putting points on the board and staying within reach. Old Williamsonian, however, kept up the pressure and managed to edge out the victory. In true Canons spirit, they fought until the very end, securing a well-deserved losing bonus point in the final play. A hard-fought contest that showcased resilience and heart!

Zingari HWO Lordswood: The match was cancelled by Lordswood.

Pulborough Women 0 – 48 Canterbury Women: Canterbury Women came out strong, hitting their stride early and taking control of the game despite challenging weather conditions. Their rock-solid defense proved unbreakable, and their sharp, focused attacking strategy left Pulborough unable to breach the Canterbury line. It was another commanding performance, securing back-to-back victories for the team. Next up, they face Tonbridge Juddian Ladies momentum is on their side!

Colts 1st XV 20 – 19 Tonbridge Juddians
Colts 2nd XV 7 – 24 Tonbridge Juddians

Girls U16’s 0 – 22 BASS: A commendable effort from the team despite having to forfeit the league game due to low numbers. They put on a strong performance, particularly in the second half, which ended 0-0 thanks to some outstanding defensive tackles. There was even a close call for a score. The final result was 22-0, but the determination shown on the field was remarkable.

Blackheath 0 – 50 Boys U15’s: The U15s delivered another outstanding performance, securing a hard-fought victory against Blackheath in their Kent League clash. This win keeps the team undefeated and firmly at the top of the Kent League 1 table. Their relentless determination and teamwork continue to shine as they dominate the competition—an incredible achievement for this talented squad!

Winchester A 10 – 20 U13’s Spitfires
Winchester B 10 – 30 U13’s Hurricanes
Richmond A 0 – 20 U13’s Spitfires
Richmond B 5 – 40 U13’s Hurricanes

Richmond Rugby Club hosted both Canterbury and Winchester boys

U13s for an exciting pre-international match at their historic grounds. Despite challenging windy conditions, both Canterbury teams showcased incredible skill and determination, remaining undefeated and delivering some truly brilliant rugby. The day didn’t end there! The squad made their way to Twickenham Stadium to soak up the electric atmosphere and watch England take on Japan.

An unforgettable day of rugby, camaraderie, and inspiration in the heart of the capital!

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to another exciting weekend of rugby action!

This weekend’s fixtures

Saturday 30/11

Deacons v Leigh – Home KO 2.00pm
Zingari v Deal – Home KO 2.00pm

Mini and Youth this Sunday 1/12

Mixed U6’s Grids – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U7’s – U11’s v Folkestone – Away
Boys U12’s v Folkestone  – Home Top Pitch KO 11.00am
Boys U13’s v Aylesford – Away
Boys U14’s v Old Alleynians – Home Orchard KO 11.00am
Boys U15’s v Gravesend  Kent College – Home KO 11.00am
Boys U16’s v Whitstable and TJ’s – Away
Girls U16’s Bottom Orchard – 9.00am to 10.30am

Canterbury Rugby Club and Marine Travel extend a warm welcome to all visiting teams, players, and supporters.

Experience Festive Magic at Lenleys Home Christmas Market!

For two days only, Lenleys Home in Canterbury is hosting an exclusive Christmas Market at their beautifully refreshed store on Roper Road.

When?

December 7th & 8th

What’s Happening?

Step into the holiday spirit with a curated Makers Market showcasing the best of local talent—browse unique creations from artists, jewellers, ceramicists, food artisans, and homeware designers.

Festive Treats Await:

  • Complimentary welcome drinks and festive nibbles
  • Exciting giveaways and prize draws
  • Exclusive in-store offers on Lenleys’ luxurious collections, available this weekend only!

Discover More:

Explore Lenleys’ refreshed store, including:

  • The brand-new Stressless studio
  • Expanded Ercol and Himolla galleries
  • Updated flooring and interiors department

Save the dates—December 7th & 8th—and bring your friends and family for a festive weekend of shopping, fun, and inspiration!

Want updates? Sign up for Lenleys’ e-newsletter at www.lenleys.co.uk

Turkey Trot Golf Day – A Fantastic Day on the Greens!

Gather your team and join us for our annual Turkey Trot Golf Day at the stunning Cave Hotel and Golf Resort in Boughton on Tuesday, 17th December.

The Day’s Highlights:

  • 9:00 AM: Registration with tea, coffee, and bacon rolls to start your morning right.
  • 10:30 AM: Shotgun start for 18 holes of Texas Scramble fun.
  • Teams of 4: Fourball entry for just £280.
  • Sponsorship Opportunity: Promote your brand with Hole Sponsorship for only £100.
  • After Play: Celebrate your success with a prize-giving ceremony and a delicious two-course lunch.

Secure Your Spot Today:

Email Kirsty at Kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk to book your team.

Don’t miss out on this incredible day of golf, fun, and camaraderie—sign up now!

We wish you all the best of rugby!

Rugby Club of the Year 2024

Canterbury Rugby Club triumphs as Rugby Club of the Year for 3rd consecutive year!

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Bex and Alice - Club Mirror AwardsLast night in Leicester, the 2024 Club Mirror Awards brought together hundreds of people from across the UK to celebrate the exceptional achievements of clubs nationwide. Hosted by the charismatic John Inverdale, the gala evening at Leicester’s Athena was a dazzling affair, filled with glamour, entertainment, and a palpable sense of community spirit.

For Canterbury Rugby Club, the event held particular significance. Having won the prestigious Rugby Club of the Year Award for the past two years, being nominated as finalists for a third year in a row was already a remarkable feat. With award entries open to all rugby clubs in the UK, being recognised among such strong competition made this honour even more meaningful. The past year has been a challenging one for the club, making this continued recognition even more impactful.

Representing the club on the night were two of its shining stars: Becky MacKracken, Head of Girls Rugby, and Alice Hayward, Canterbury Women’s player and Community Coach. Braving the inclement weather, Becky and Alice made the three and a half hour journey to Leicester. Their efforts were rewarded in spectacular fashion as Canterbury Rugby Club was once again crowned Rugby Club of the Year!

The award was presented by former England International Chris Ashton, and the moment was met with rapturous applause from the packed ballroom. It was a proud and emotional occasion for everyone connected to the club.

This accolade is more than just a trophy on a shelf; it represents the dedication, commitment, and passion of everyone involved in Canterbury Rugby Club. From players of all ages to parents, supporters, staff across bar, catering, grounds, and administration, as well as volunteers and partners. This is a victory for the entire Canterbury Rugby family.

This sentiment was reinforced by Club Chair Giles Hilton MBE “The Award of The Club Mirror Rugby Club of the Year for the 3rd consecutive year is an amazing achievement and testament to everyone involved at CRFC #oneclub.”

A Heartfelt thank you from the club

From the bottom of our egg-shaped hearts, thank you. This award belongs to all of you who make Canterbury Rugby Club the incredible community it is. Here’s to another year of success, camaraderie, and rugby excellence!

Harry Sloane

Major New Signing

Posted on | by David Haigh

CENTRE HARRY SLOAN JOINS SQUAD

The club has announced a significant addition to their senior squad with the signing of centre Harry Sloan from French ProD2 side Agen. During a top flight career he has played at international level, representing England Under20s, and appeared in the English Premiership with Harlequins and Saracens. The 30-year old 6ft 2in, 16 stones player is a Kent man, born in Pembury, near Tunbridge Wells, whose first club was Cranbrook before he joined the Harlequins Academy. Harry made 36 Premiership appearances for Quins, before a spell with Championship side Ealing Trailfinders and then signing for Saracens. He has spent two season in French rugby with Agen but has now decided to move into to the semi-professional game while he develops career opportunities outside rugby.
The club’s Director of Rugby, Taff Gwilliam, said: “The signing of Harry Sloan underlines the ambition of Canterbury to become a sustainable leading club in the Kent and South East area. We welcome Harry, who adds quality and experience to our developing senior squad. He is an intelligent and humble man who will fit in well with the rest of the squad. We are simply delighted he has chosen to join us and look forward to him taking to the field in Canterbury colours.

Harry Sloane

Pilgrims Beat The Weather

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

CRANBROOK 0 CANTERBURY PILGRIMS 38

by Dan Gill

The weather was always going to have an impact on Pilgrims ability to play their usual brand of expansive rugby but they overcame that challenge to stay top of Counties Kent One. It didn’t take them long to register the first score of the day with tight head prop Nathan Morris quickest to react when the wind played havoc with a Cranbrook line out and he dived on the loose ball, with Owain Collins adding the extras. The backs on both sides were finding handling difficult with dropped balls and wayward passes halting many promising attacks. It was left to Morris to set the tone for the rest of the half when he forced his way over from close range for his second try.. Prop Dan Gill made an instant impact on his return from injury to force his way over from close range for another score after a series of good pick and go drives by the forwards and push the lead to seventeen. After the first 30 mins the Pilgrims backs started to get to grips with the conditions and were attacking well from deep with Guy Hilton, Adrian Geddes and Max Campbell running the ball back with intent whenever Cranbrook tried to clear their lines. The direct work of Pilgrims back row of Al Evans, Harvey Furneaux and Charlie McGovern should have led to another score but, after doing the hard bit, Evans was held up over the line when trying to run the ball under the posts. Pilgrims were dominant at the scrum and after forcing a penalty they kicked deep into Cranbrook territory. Good line out ball set the platform for the tight forwards to go work. Strong drives from Will Hunt and Jake Dengate made inroads before Gill battered his way over for his second touchdown to secure the bonus point and make the conversion a simple one for Collins The half time lead was 24-0. The second half even more of a challenge for Canterbury as the slope and the elements were in Cranbrook’s favour. But Pilgrims defence has been a major feature of their play this season, and again it was no exception with centres Tom Best and Sonny Trew-Neville shutting down Cranbrook attacks out wide and McGovern, Furneaux, Dengate and hooker Demery dealing with the tight drives well. Cranbrook held out for the first 20 mins of the half before debutant scrum half Henry Carruthers, who was dangerous all afternoon with his sniping runs, jinked past a number of defenders to dot down.. Sonny Trew-Neville then added a sixth try with his trade mark direct running. Will Hilton converted to complete Pilgrims victory as they look forward to a tasty looking contest against Heathfield & Waldron at the MTG in two weeks time.

Pilgrims: Bloomfield, Demery, Morris, Kenny, Hunt, McGovern, Furneaux, Evans, Caruthers, Collins, Geddes, Best, Trew-Neville, Campbell, G HIlton, Gill, Dengate, W Hilton.

LAST MINUTE MISERY

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

HENLEY HAWKS 17 CANTERBURY 16

by David Haigh

A converted try in the final play of the match snatched a dramatic victory for the Hawks and left Canterbury a hugely disappointed team. The city side had led from the fourth minute to the last and a losing bonus point was scant reward for their efforts. On a day when the shape of the game was dictated by the wind and rain of winter storm Bert, it was the city side who edged the territorial battle to establish an eight point advantage by half time. With scoring chances at a premium in the testing conditions it was a good position to be in, but their failure to exploit attacking positions in the second half proved costly. From the start, the pack caused Henley problems at both scrum and lineout, grappled powerfully in the loose and got an early reward through a Frank Reynolds penalty goal. Despite losing hooker Eoin O’Donoghue to a yellow card, Reynolds added another valuable three points after 22 minutes. It was against the run of play when Henley replied with the first try of the afternoon, Lailand Gordon snapping up loose ball in his own 22 metre area and breaking free before his long kick ahead was chased down well by scrum half Aidan Pugh. Max Kitchener was off target with a kickable conversion and the city side quickly found a score of their own. Pressure and penalties gave them the chance and on a day when the backs on both sides were largely redundant as an attacking option, wing Garry Joined the driving maul to touch down and Reynolds converted. As conditions worsened after the break the action was all arm wrestle with the forwards slugging it out. Hawks struck early as they cured some of their possession problems, kicked effectively and got a catch and drive try by Beau Delaney. Canterbury worked hard to find scoring positions but were failed by penalties and handling errors which left them relying on Reynolds’ third penalty goal. It opened a six point lead which might have been enough but in those crucial last minutes they came under severe pressure. Aaron Cooper was yellow carded for a technical offence and, after three attempts, a driving maul ended with hooker Spencer Hayhow’s try. Titchener, who had missed every shot a goal up to that point, was on the money when it mattered.

Canterbury: K.Heatherley, A.Moss, F.Morgan, W.Waddington, G.Jones, F.Reynolds, P.Farrance, O.Frostick, E.O’Donoghue, D.Herriott, D.Irvine, J.Stephens, C.Thomas, T.Mackenzie, T.Oliver T.Williams, S.Rogers, A.Cooper, Y. De Mowbray, H.Young

View match photos

v Henley - 23 Nov 2024

Images may be subject to copyright – Phillipa Hilton

HENLEY BLOCK THE WAY

Posted on | by David Haigh

SATURDAY PREVIEW

Last Saturday our first half performance was easily one of the best in recent years. Going in at 40-7 the players had shown the extent of their ability to move the ball and execute under pressure. This was obviously pleasing from my perspective and I loved the way the team and its leaders controlled the game. At fifty minutes we extended our lead to a margin of 52-14, an impressive score line, and we have spoken in the week about what happened next. Conceding three tries, and the manner of these tries, are not part of our defensive identity. We took our collision intensity down a notch and at national league level all teams will expose this. It is some good feedback that we can’t ignore and if we use the learning will be extremely valuable. The other silver lining is that we wrestled our way back into the driving seat with a twenty two phase attack sequence that ended in us winning a penalty. This was a big moment in the game and swung the momentum back in our direction and we finished with another score. When the pressure begins to build this is exactly the type of understanding and character that the best teams have.
In the blink of an eye we are at the final game this three game block. These short bursts of matches will be the prevailing rhythm for the remainder of the season and to finish this first one off with three wins we must travel to Henley. Henley sit above us on equal points and this has always been a challenging fixture. I feel we have grown a great deal in the last two weeks and Saturday will give us a true test of this progress.
The Pilgrims came through their own test last week away at Dover. A team full of experience and ability ran out 27-43 winners scoring seven tries. This keeps them at the top of the table ahead of their game away at Cranbrook this weekend.

Matt Corker, Head Coach

Around the Ground

Around the Ground at the MTG

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Last weekend’s games

1st XV 59 – 35 Bury St Edmunds: For the second consecutive week, Canterbury’s attacking flair was on full display as they stormed past the half-century mark with a dominant nine-try performance. Wing Garry Jones stole the show with a stunning hat-trick, leading the city side to a bonus-point victory in their National 2 East clash.

A blistering first half set the tone, with Canterbury racking up 40 points before the break. They controlled every aspect of the game; overpowering Bury at the set pieces and tearing through their defense with a dynamic backline. Though Bury mounted a spirited response in the second half, Canterbury’s early dominance gave them the breathing room to secure another emphatic win.

View full match report

Thank you to our sponsors on the day for their continuing support – Aspen Pumps Group, Hobbs Thomas & Company LLP, Clague Architects, Harwood, Jenner, Ovenden Plant Hire, and Meadow Grange Nurseries.

Dover 25 – 45 Pilgrims: Dover started strong with an early converted try from ex-Canterbury man Martyn Beaumont, but Pilgrims responded swiftly, with Max Campbell and Harvey Furneaux crossing for tries, and a well taken conversion by Owain Collins to edge a 19-13 halftime lead. Despite yellow cards for Henry Kenny and Aaron Cooper, Pilgrims’ aggressive defense and dynamic attacking play shone through in the second half.

Aiden Moss dazzled with a try after breaking through three defenders, while Sonny Trew-Neville and Aaron Cooper added to the tally. Though Dover capitalised on a two-man advantage to close the gap, Pilgrims regained control, sealing a well-earned victory. Next stop: Cranbrook.

View full match report

Canons 19 – 14 Cliffe Crusaders: The Canons extended their unbeaten streak in a nail-biting clash against a formidable Cliffe Crusaders side.

Despite falling behind early to a pair of converted penalties, the Canons regrouped and battled their way to a halftime lead. The second half saw momentum swing as they conceded a try and briefly lost their advantage. However, the Canons quickly struck back, reclaiming the lead and holding firm in a tense finish.

With a hard-fought victory, the Canons remain undefeated, showcasing their resilience and determination once again!

Gillingham 2nds PP Zingari: Match rescheduled as an away fixture – February 1st, 2025.

Aylesford 40 – 31 Colts Tigers

Colts Dragons 26 – 50 Dorking

Boys U13’s Spitfires 50 – 5 Tunbridge Wells:  The Spitfires soared into action, blitzing to a three-try lead within the opening 10 minutes! The forward pack was a force to be reckoned with, dominating the set piece, stealing scrums, and securing loose ball to give the backs the perfect platform to shine. Their precision and creativity dazzled, resulting in a series of breathtaking tries.

This commanding performance was no fluke—it’s the product of eight months of relentless hard work and determination by the squad. The final score is a true reflection of their growth and teamwork.

It’s a far cry from earlier this year when the Canterbury U13 Spitfires scraped past Tunbridge Wells A with a narrow one-score victory on their home turf. What a journey this team has been on!

Boys U13’s Hurricanes 55 – 5 Tunbridge Wells:  Tunbridge Wells: The Canterbury Hurricanes bounced back in style after last week’s tough loss to Medway A, determined to right their wrongs and make a statement against Tunbridge Wells B—and they did just that!

With sharp ruck work and quick ball delivery, the forwards laid the foundation for the backs to shine, scoring freely out wide. The Hurricanes dominated from start to finish, sealing an emphatic victory and showcasing their ability to respond with grit and class.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to another exciting weekend of rugby action!

This weekend’s fixtures

Saturday 23/11

Henley v 1st XV – Away KO 3.00pm
Cranbrook v Pilgrims – Away KO 2.00pm
Canons v O.Williamsonians – Home KO 2.00pm
Deacons – No Game ( Dover 3rds have pulled out of the League )
Zingari V Lordswood 2nds – Home KO 2.00pm

Mini & Youth Training and Fixtures

Sunday 24/11

Mixed U6’s Grids – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U7’s -11 v Medway – Home
Mixed U7’s Grids – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U8’s and Mixed U9’s Simon Langton 4G – 9.00am to 10.30am
Mixed U10’s Bottom Orchard – 9.00am to 10.30am
Mixed U11’s Top Orchard – 9.00am – 10:30am

Youth
Boys U12’s Bottom Orchard – 10:30 to 12.00pm
Boys U13’s v Richmond and Winchester – Away
Boys U14’s v Beccihamians – Away
Boys U15’s v Blackheath Kent College – KO 11.00am
Boys U16’s v Cranbrook – Away
Colts 1’s v TJ’s Simon Langton 4G – KO 11.00am
Colts 2’s v TJ’s Simon Langton 4G – KO 12:30pm

Girls U16’s v GAS Top Pitch – KO 11.00am

Canterbury Rugby Club and Marine Travel extend a warm welcome to all visiting teams, players, and supporters.

Christmas market at Lenleys

Lenleys Home is holding an exclusive Christmas market event for two days only at their Canterbury store on Roper Road. On December 7th and 8th, visitors are invited to experience the festive spirit with a curated Makers Market featuring an exceptional range of local artists, food artisans, jewellers, ceramicists, and homeware designers. You’ll be greeted with welcome drinks, festive nibbles, and the chance to participate in exciting giveaways and prize draws. Enjoy exclusive offers on Lenleys luxurious collections, available in-store for this weekend only. This event is also a wonderful opportunity to explore Lenleys newly refreshed store, including the brand-new Stressless studio, the expanded Ercol and Himolla galleries as well as an updated flooring and interiors department.

Save the dates – December 7th and 8th and bring your friends and family along for a wonderful festive weekend!

If you would like more information, then sign up to the Lenleys e-newsletter via their website https://www.lenleys.co.uk

Turkey Trot Golf Day – Join us for a fantastic day on the greens!

Get your team together and tee off with us at the stunning Cave Hotel and Golf Resort in Boughton for our annual Turkey Trot Golf Day on Tuesday, 17th December! Enjoy a fun-filled day of golf with:

Registration, tea/coffee, and bacon rolls starting at 9:00 am

18 holes, Texas Scramble format with a shotgun start at 10:30 am

Teams of 4, Fourball Entry: £280

Hole Sponsorship: £100

Wrap up the day with a prize-giving ceremony and a delicious two-course lunch!

Secure your spot today—email Kirsty at Kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk. Don’t miss it!

We wish you all the best of rugby!

PILGRIMS TOO STRONG FOR DOVER

Posted on | by David Haigh

Dover 27 Canterbury Pilgrims 43

by Dan Gill

Dover started on the front foot with the advantage of the slope in the first half and were quickly on the score sheet after experienced ex-Canterbury man Martyn Beaumont’s cross field kick was gathered by their winger to score out wide for a converted try. The Pilgrims response was immediate and their first meaningful foray into Dover’s half was rewarded with a try for Max Campbell who was given space out wide and outpaced the defence for a score converted well by Owain Collins. Harry Moore, in good form with the boot for Dover, added a penalty soon after with Canterbury punished for offside, their blitz defence adjudged too keen to get off the line. Good close quarter work by the forwards saw open side flank Harvey Furneaux crash over for Pilgrims second try, again converted, but another Moore penalty reduced Canterbury’s lead to a single point. blindside flanker Charlie McGovern, enjoying an excellent all round game, was next to cross the whitewash. Good line out ball and strong runs from Al Evans and Sonny True-Neville sucked in the Dover defence before McGovern’s direct approach saw hIm power over for an unconverted score. Despite losing lock Henry Kenny to a yellow card Pilgrims held on to a 19-13 lead at half time thanks to aggressive defence. The opening exchanges of the second half proved frustrating for both sides as they found themselves on the wrong side of the referees whistle which caused tempers to flare on more than one occasion, but Pilgrims clicked into gear when Kenny returned from the sin bin. Dover tried to relieve pressure with a long clearance kick, well fielded by Collins before Guy Hilton used his pace, found centre Aiden Moss, who showed his class in beating three Dover defenders and sent Furneaux over for the bonus point try. With Pilgrims moving the ball well between forwards and backs and good line out throwing from Nathan Morris it built the platform to launch more attacks. McGovern and Jake Dengate, who made a strong impact from the bench, were both prominent before the next score. A number of close range drives saw ex Dover man Aaron Cooper power over with Collins again adding the extras. Just as the game started to look comfortable, ill discipline and Dover’s determination saw the gap closed. Cooper was given a ten minute period of reflection after the referee adjudged him to be responsible for foul play before fellow front row forward Jenson Bloomfield joined him in the sin bin for a high tackle. Dover made the most of their two man advantage, first adding an unconverted try following a scrum five metres out and a good Beaumont line break got them behind Pilgrims’ stretched defence for their third try which was well converted to cut the lead to eight points This was as close as Dover came though as the Pilgrims showed their class when back to full strength with two further scores. First Aiden Moss dotted down for a try his individual play deserved after strong running from the returning Gus Lister. Forwards and backs then combined well with good phase play to send centre Sonny True-Neville across the line and put the gloss on a good derby display. Pilgrims travel to Cranbrook next Saturday.

Pilgrims: A.Cooper, A.Demery, N. Morris, H.Kenny, W.Hunt, C.McGovern, H.Furneaux, A,Evans, H.Valladares, O.Collins, A.Geddes, S.True-Neville, A. Moss, M,Campbell, G Hilton, J.Bloomfield, J.Dengate, G.Lister.

View match photos

Images may be subject to copyright – Ken Matcham

Jones Points The Way

Posted on | by David Haigh

CANTERBURY 59 BURY ST EDMUNDS 35

by David Haigh

For a second week Canterbury soared past the half century mark as their attacking style produced nine tries, a hat trick for wing Garry Jones and a bonus point victory. Once again it was a first half blitz that sent them on their way in this National 2 East clash and later bought them breathing space to see off a spirited Bury response. By half time the city side had hit the 40 mark and were dominating all areas as the visitors struggled at the set pieces and were shredded by an enterprising back division. Jones set the tone with a try after five minutes and although there was a reply with a close range touchdown from Finlay McCartney, converted by Charlie Reed, the rest of the half was mostly a one-way street. Canterbury rattled up another five tries before the break starting with a driving maul completed by Eoin O’Donoghue and an overthrown lineout leading to flanker Chad Thomas scoring the third city try. Bury, looking to counter from deep when they could, had a score ruled out for a forward pass, but it was quickly back to normal service as Canterbury’s risk and reward rugby made the line breaks. Wing Alfie Orris set up a Kurt Heatherley try, the backs opened space for Jones to cross again and Frank Morgan made a telling run for a Tom Williams try in the 38th minute. With five conversions from Frank Reynolds the game was in Canterbury’s grip, tightened two minutes into the second half when the power of wingman Orris was too much for the last Bury defender. It was now, however, that Bury started to find their feet. A try from centre Samir Kharbouch was quickly rubbed out by Jones’ third touch down, and a Reynolds conversion, but the next fifteen minutes showed the visitors at their best. Kharbouch scored twice to become the game’s second hat trick man, Will Metcalfe rumbled over for their fifth try and with Reed converting everything Bury were in a challenging position. But Canterbury settled again in the last quarter and when a piercing break by Yannick de Moubray set up a converted try for Presley Farrance an entertaining job was done.

Canterbury; K.Heatherley, G.Jones, F.Morgan, W.Waddington, A.Orris, F.Reynolds, T.Williams, D.Huntley, E.O’Donoghue, D.Herriott, D.Irvine, J.Stephens, C.Thomas, T.Mackenzie, T.Oliver, Replacements: S.Rogers, Y.de Moubray, O.Frostick, H.Young, P.Farrance

View match photos

v Bury St Edmunds - 16 Nov 2024

Images may be subject to copyright – Phillipa Hilton