Month: December 2024

Adrian Geddes - PotM - Prodigals v Tjs and West Kent U23's

Canterbury U23s Face Off Against TJs in Festive Clash

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

On Saturday 28th December, MTG welcomed TJs u23s and 34 of Canterbury’s sons back to the field for a thrilling encounter.

It was brilliant to see every Colts team for the past 5 years represented with 5 current colts also making a step up to U23 rugby.

200+ spectators got their Rugby fix over the Christmas League break and were not left disappointed.

Canterbury opted to head up the hill in the first half and started well with 10 minutes of sustained physicality and dominant ball carrying. However, TJs composure and skill set showed with two quick scores taking it to 0-12 after 20 mins.
Canterbury rallied well and worked their way up the pitch through pressure resulting in penalties. This sustained period of pressure saw Kyle Oliff break off of a driving maul and bundle over to take the scoreline to 12-7 with Owain Collins converting.

TJs, however, weren’t content with only 2 scores in the half. A turnover in midfield followed by some smart kicks in behind forced a handling error and TJs pounced on the ball over the line. Half time 7-17.

A brand new XV took on the second half with clear directives from the half time oranges: play in the right areas.
TJs, however, were fastest out the blocks with two more quick fire scores. With their 5th and final coming on the 60th minute making the scoreline 7-27.

There was still time for Canterbury to showcase the attacking brilliance they had threatened all game and this time the offloads stuck.
A 30m break saw a brilliant try in the far right hand corner to bring the final score to 12-27.

The boys worked hard and should be very proud of their efforts but alas were beaten by a clinical and well drilled TJs side. A side which boasts two U18 National champion cohorts in their U23s squad. Congratulations to Adrian Geddes for being presented with a much-deserved Player of the Match award.

We would like to thank all home and visiting coaches and management for allowing this fixture to go ahead and look forward to welcoming Sevenoaks u23s to MTG on Sunday 13th April (1500 KO).

Around the Ground

Around the Ground at the MTG

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Well, that’s a wrap for 2024. The last game has been played, and we look forward to New Year’s Eve festivities before rugby kicks in again on the 4th of January 2025!

Message from the Club Chair

As Chair of Canterbury RFC, I hope you have all had a fantastic Christmas, and it is an absolute pleasure to wish you all a very Happy New Year. Your support to us is invaluable and for that, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. It absolutely goes without saying that at any stage you wish to reach out to us then we will always be #yourclub #oneclub
 ~ Giles Hilton MBE – Club Chair

Message from the Club President

I hope all involved with CRFC had a very happy Christmas. From the players, coaches, and helpers right through all areas of the club, to all who work hard behind the scenes to make the club function, and to all who stand on the touchline in all weathers supporting the team of your choice. I would also like to point out all our sponsors and donors who help financially to keep the club running. This would include anyone buying a raffle ticket or a beer at the bar, generous sponsors supplying playing kit, sign sponsors, and Marine Travel for sponsoring the ground we all use. We have a great 1st half of the season, but we cannot rest on our laurels.

I would like to wish you all a happy new year and wish you all the best in achieving all your rugby aims. If for some reason these are not met just remember to ENJOY your rugby experience in 2025.
 ~ Pat Goode – Club President

Last games roundup

21st December

1st XV 35 – 22 Sevenoaks: Canterbury secured a 33-20 win over Sevenoaks, cementing fourth place in National 2 East. Despite a narrow halftime deficit, they dominated the second half, scoring three of their five tries and controlling scrums and lineouts.

Eoin O’Donoghue and Tyler Oliver crossed in the first half, while Alfie Orris, Frank Morgan, and O’Donoghue added second-half tries. Frank Reynolds’ accurate kicking sealed the win. Sevenoaks managed a late consolation, but Canterbury’s clinical display ensured they ended 2023 on a high.

Ashford 3 – 76 Pilgrims: The Pilgrims delivered a commanding performance in their final game of 2024, defeating Ashford 76-3 to stay top of Counties Kent 1.

An early Owain Collins penalty set the tone, followed by tries from Harry Chubb, Gus Lister, Guy Hilton, and Max Campbell. Henry Kenny finished a flowing team move, and a powerful driving maul extended the lead to 46-0 at halftime.

The second half saw more attacking flair, with Yannick De Moubray scoring twice and converting one. Aggressive defense and set-piece dominance kept Ashford at bay, limiting them to a solitary penalty.

This comprehensive victory capped a successful year for the Pilgrims, showcasing their strength across the field.

Rye 7 – 12 Canons: The Canons wrapped up 2024 with a gritty 12-5 win against Rye on a windy Sussex coast. Herbie Bowler opened the scoring early, and Ben Jones added a second try just before halftime, giving Canterbury a 12-0 lead.

Playing into strong winds in the second half, the Canons delivered a resolute defensive performance, conceding just one try while withstanding sustained pressure. A final defensive stand on their 5m line sealed the win.

With 20 wins from 21 games in 2024, the Canons look to carry their momentum into the new year, starting against 3rd-placed Dartfordians on January 4th.

28th December

Canterbury & East Kent U23’s 12 – 27 Tonbridge Juddians & West Kent U23’s: On December 28th, the MTG hosted a thrilling U23s match as 34 Canterbury players, spanning five years of Colts teams, took the field alongside five current Colts stepping up to U23 rugby. Over 200 spectators enjoyed an entertaining encounter during the Christmas League break.

Canterbury started strongly uphill, showing physicality and dominant ball carrying, but TJs capitalized on opportunities to lead 12-0 after 20 minutes. A well-earned try by Kyle Oliff, converted by Owain Collins, brought Canterbury back to 12-7 before TJs struck again, closing the first half at 7-17.

With clear directives, a new Canterbury XV emerged for the second half but struggled against TJs’ sharp execution. Two quick tries and another in the 60th minute extended TJs’ lead to 27-7. Canterbury showcased their attacking flair late in the game, scoring a brilliant try in the corner to finish 12-27.

Congratulations to Adrian Geddes for being presented with a much-deserved Player of the Match award.

Despite the loss, Canterbury’s U23s displayed resilience and promise. Thanks to all involved for making the fixture possible. The next U23 match is against Sevenoaks on Sunday, April 13th, at the MTG.

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

Next fixtures

Saturday 4th January

Pilgrims v Charlton Park – Home kick off 3.00pm
Saucy Flo’s will be offering a curry lunch for £12.50 per head from 1.15pm – Book through chair@cantrugby.co.uk. The clubhouse bar will be open from 12.00pm.

Canons v Dartfordians – Home kick off 2.00pm
Gravesend v Deacons – Away 2.00pm

Sunday 5th January

Medway Ladies v Canterbury Women – Away Kick off TBC.

Mini & Youth

Mixed U6’s Grids – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U7’s to Mixed U11’s at Whitstable RFC – 10.30am

Youth, TBC. Please check the Mini & Youth web pages for updates

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

We wish you all the best of rugby!

PILGRIMS END YEAR IN STYLE

Posted on | by David Haigh

ASHFORD 3 CANTERBURY PILGRIMS 76

by Dan Glll

Pilgrims made the short trip to Ashford looking to finish the year with an improved performance after being deservedly beaten on their last outing at Sevenoaks.
They started brightly and quickly found themselves three points in front through a simple Owain Collins penalty goal. This was increased to ten shortly after when Harry Chubb, making his Pilgrims debut, found Gus Lister and his fine break saw him beat the covering defenders to dot down. Guy Hilton and Max Campbell added scores before Henry Kenny finished off a fine flowing passage of play where forwards and backs exchanged passes seamlessly. Collins landed one of a number of difficult kicks from the touch line.
Ashford were struggling to contain a Pilgrims side who were having the better of the set pieces and dominating the breakdown. They resorted to kicking long in an attempt to relieve pressure but a loose kick was returned by Collins with interest for a fine 50-22. The subsequent lineout became a driving maul which saw the forwards power over. When the half time whistle blew Pilgrims held a commanding 46-0 lead
The second half followed a similar pattern with Pilgrims’ showcasing some fine attacking rugby to add a further 30 points. Ashford never gave up and mounted a few promising attacks, but aggressive defence and counter rucking kept them on the back foot. The hosts only points came from a penalty goal but from the kick off typically aggressive rucking saw Pilgrims turn the ball over. It was moved wide by the backs before Yannick De Moubray galloped through a gap in the defence to add his second try of the game. He then landed the conversion to cap a fine individual performance and see Pilgrims finish 2024 how they started the year – at the top of Counties Kent 1.
Pilgrims: Everrat, Demery, MacMillan, Kenny, De Moubray, Hunt, Divine, Evans, Valladares, Campbell, Collins, Chubb, Lister, Trew-Neville, G Hilton, Gill, Cooper, Geddes.

HOLIDAY HIGH FOR CANTERBURY

Posted on | by David Haigh

CANTERBURY 35 SEVENOAKS 22

by David Haigh

Canterbury go into the Christmas break on a high with this bonus point victory which cements their fourth place in National 2 East. After the stellar performance at Dorking the previous week it was a solid, rather than spectacular, show against a Sevenoaks side who themselves came into the the game on a three match winning streak. They were a point ahead at half time but the city side scored three of their five tries in the second half as their domination of scrums and lineouts kept them firmly in control. The first points of the match came from the boot of Sevenoaks full back Ben Adams, with a 24th minute penalty goal, but that brought an immediate response from a Canterbury team playing cannily into the strong wind. Frank Morgan carried hard into the ‘Oaks defence and, once there, the pack made the most of it with a try from hooker Eoin O’Donoghue, converted by Frank Reynolds. That was countered by Oaks wing Harry Barker, who grabbed a pinpoint cross kick from Ed Shepherdson, and Canterbury then handed the visitors a second try, this one converted by Adams. A spilled pass was booted 50 metres down field and when the chasers arrived Drew Forrester made a good pick up to score and open an eight point lead. But the visitors were still vulnerable and when Canterbury probed again Barney Stone was yellow carded and Oaks were punished by a close range try from Tyler Oliver. With Reynolds adding the goal points it rewarded a good first half containing effort. Going down wind after the break the city men quickly put their stamp on the game. It took two minutes for the backs to launch Alfie Orris for the third try and the powerful wing then turned provider for the next score, bursting through a hole and sending Morgan across for the bonus point touch down. Reynolds, who does not miss much these days, converted both tries and completed a full house when O’Donoghue claimed his second try after the mighty home pack, where flanker Chad Thomas had an impressive afternoon, drove a maul over 20 metres. His late yellow card was a disappointment but Oaks, starved of primary possession to make any lasting impact, did make their extra man count with a try from prop Sam Begbie, converted by Adams. They still went home empty handed.

Canterbury: K.Heatherley, A.Orris, F.Morgan, W.Waddington, T.Williams, F.Reynolds, P.Farrance, O.Frostick, E.O.Donoghue, D.Herriott, D.Irvine, J.Stephens, C.Thomas, S.Rogers, T.Oliver. Replacements: N.Morris, H.Furneaux, C.McGovern, H.Young, W.Hilton

View match photos

v Sevenoaks - 21 Dec 2024

Images may be subject to copyright – Phillipa Hilton

Moving Forward

Posted on | by David Haigh

SATURDAY PREVIEW

What a Saturday. Beating second in the league, who were on a ten game winning streak at their ground, is no mean feat and is a massive turnaround from how we have played at Dorking in recent seasons. The players raised their physicality to a new level and executed the plan, putting in one of the best performances of the season so far. It’s important to acknowledge that we won by the finest of margins, with Dorking missing a conversion with the last kick of the game. After a dominant first sixty minutes we had established a commanding 18 point lead but small bursts of consecutive errors swung the pressure back onto us and big defensive efforts were not rewarded due to playing penalty advantages. To make sure our fate remains in our own hands, the fix is removing these small indiscretions which collectively can be very influential. That said, it shows how this team is moving forward and it was a performance the players can be immensely proud of.

Many teams in our league can find emotional “get up” for one big game, but the ability to back that up the following weekend is something that separates the good teams from the best. Sevenoaks visit the Marine Travel ground on the back of three wins and the last game of the year is always a one to remember. Our challenge is to replicate the highs of last week so that we go into the Christmas break satisfied. It goes without saying that Sevenoaks will be aiming for the very same.

The Pilgrims travelled to play Sevenoaks 2nd XV last weekend, losing 47-24, one of their worst defeats in recent seasons. As the scoreline suggests defensively we did not meet our usual high standards, but the players fought hard in the final quarter to score an important fourth try to come away with a losing bonus point. Thanks to that point, Sevenoaks now sit one place behind us in the table meaning results in the next run of games are very important for us to maintain our place at the top of the table. The Pilgrims travel to Ashford and are looking to get back to their high performance standards and back to winning ways.

I want to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support in 2024. I feel the club and team continue to move in a very positive direction thanks to the enormous amount of backing that we receive and the hours of time that people give to make it such a special place. It makes me extremely excited about 2025. Until then I would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New year.

Matt Corker, Head Coach

Around the Ground

Around the Ground at the MTG

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Last weekend’s games

Dorking 34 – 35 1st XV: Canterbury claimed a hard-fought victory against Dorking, ending the home side’s unbeaten streak this season. The match came down to the final kick, with Dorking narrowly missing a conversion in the dying moments, allowing Canterbury to celebrate a well-earned win.

Head Coach Matt Corker praised the team’s performance, calling it “a big step forward” and crediting their aggressive breakdown play and sharp ball movement. Canterbury overcame an early setback to dominate much of the game, with standout contributions including Aiden Moss scoring in his 200th league appearance and Frank Reynolds adding three penalty goals and three conversions.

Despite a late surge from Dorking, Canterbury’s resilience and strategic play secured the victory, marking a memorable success at a challenging venue.

Sevenoaks 47 – 24 Pilgrims: The Pilgrims faced a challenging match against Sevenoaks, ultimately falling 47-24 despite moments of promising play.

The city side started brightly, dominating the opening exchanges with strong link-up play between forwards and backs. Their efforts were rewarded when prop Nathan Morris powered over for a try, converted by Will Hilton, giving them an early 0-7 lead. However, Sevenoaks responded with a flurry of four tries in 20 minutes, capitalizing on defensive lapses and a yellow card for Will Hunt, to establish a commanding 28-7 lead. Al Evans’ late first-half try brought some relief, making it 28-12 at halftime.

After the break, Sevenoaks added a fifth try, but the Pilgrims fought back, leveraging dominant scrums to score again and close the gap to 33-19. With momentum building and Oaks reduced to 14 players, the next score was pivotal. Unfortunately, a well-executed 50/22 and lineout drive saw Sevenoaks extend their lead to 40-19.

The Pilgrims secured a vital fourth try for a bonus point through Max Campbell, but a final Sevenoaks score sealed the 47-24 result. Despite the loss, the Pilgrims remain top of the Counties 1 table and will look to bounce back in a crucial match against local rivals Ashford this Saturday.

Canons 55 – 0 Sheppey: The Canons started the second half of their season in emphatic style, overpowering Sheppey at the MTG. With a well-executed game plan, they showcased both attacking flair and defensive discipline.

Debutant fly-half Josh Lamb opened the scoring with a solo break under the posts within five minutes. From the restart, Fady Sheta exploited space out wide to sprint 60m for a second try. The forwards laid a strong platform, enabling the backs to shine, with Jake Upward scoring twice before halftime to make it 24-0.

The highlight of the day came from Ben Jones, whose dazzling run and offload set up Jon Murphy for a memorable try under the posts. As Sheppey began to tire, Upward completed his hat trick, while further tries from Murphy, Harry Chubb, and Lamb sealed the comprehensive win.

The Canons now look to close the year on a high as they face Rye on December 21, aiming to strengthen their hold at the top of Counties 4.

Sheppey v Deacons: Cancelled
New Ash Green v Zingari:  Cancelled
Canterbury Women v Tonbridge Juddians Ladies: Cancelled

Hellfire 2 games to 1 Brighton Bucanneers: Hellfire emerged victorious in a fiercely contested 2024 Gill Laurie Cup tournament, showcasing resilience and determination against a strong Brighton side.

The opening game saw Hellfire narrowly edged out 13-16 despite a spirited fightback. Undeterred, they battled to a nail-biting 17-16 win in the second game, keeping the competition wide open.

In the deciding match, Hellfire’s composure and organization shone through. Under intense pressure from Brighton, they held firm to secure a 16-11 victory and claim the coveted cup.

A fantastic achievement for Hellfire, capping off an exhilarating tournament and 2024!

Thank you to Canterbury Christ Church University Sports Centre for allowing us to hold the tournament at their fantastic facility.

Tunbridge Wells 13 – 20 Colts 1st XV: Despite missing several key players to Kent U18s duty, injuries, and even skiing holidays, the Colts 1st XV rose to the challenge and clinched a hard-fought 13-20 victory against Tunbridge Wells in League 1.

The first half saw Canterbury struggle to capitalise on favourable conditions, with missed opportunities and last-minute errors keeping the score tight. Ruben Kalonji’s late try ensured Canterbury led 3-5 at the break, despite Tunbridge Wells opening the scoring with a penalty.

The second half, however, tested Canterbury’s resilience as the hosts capitalised on the wind and slope to take a 13-5 lead. A penalty from Oli Crowther narrowed the gap before Gam Esan’s electrifying touchline run brought Canterbury back into contention. Though the conversion slipped wide, Ed Thompson’s powerful try and Crowther’s successful kick sealed the win.

Strong defensive performances from Harrison Cook, Oscar Sands, and Piers Weigh’s key turnovers were instrumental in this gutsy away victory.

Boys U13 Spitfires 35 – 5 Blackheath: The Canterbury U13 Spitfires capped off their Division 1 Kent league campaign with a commanding victory over Blackheath at the MTG.

Despite conceding an early try straight from the kick off, Canterbury quickly responded with a score of their own just two minutes later, seizing control of the game.

While the set-piece battle was evenly matched, Canterbury’s speed, precision in moving the ball wide, and superior fitness at the breakdown proved decisive. Their dynamic play led to a series of fantastic tries, showcasing their attacking flair.

This comprehensive performance marked the Spitfires’ most dominant display of the season, providing a strong finish to their league campaign.

Boys U13 Hurricanes 20 – 20 Tonbridge Juddians: The Under 13s Hurricanes delivered an exhilarating performance in their latest match, battling to a 4-4 draw against Tonbridge in a contest filled with skill, determination, and sportsmanship.

The game began at a blistering pace, with both teams testing each other’s defences. Canterbury struck first with a well-executed try, but Tonbridge quickly levelled the score at 1-1. The second half saw both sides trading blows, with Canterbury taking a 2-1 lead only for Tonbridge to equalize at 2-2.

As the intensity grew, TJs edged ahead 2-3 before Canterbury responded to level the game at 3-3. In the closing moments, Tonbridge regained the lead, but Canterbury’s relentless determination saw them cross the line once more, ensuring the game ended in a well-deserved draw.

This hard-fought match highlighted the resilience and talent of both teams. Though neither side claimed victory, their efforts provided a thrilling spectacle and set the tone for more exciting matchups in the future.

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

This weekend’s fixtures

Saturday 21/12

Canterbury 1st XV v Sevenoaks – KO 3.00pm:

We’re calling all supporters to come down and cheer on the 1st XV in their final game of 2024! Let’s make it a festive send-off—dress in your favourite Christmas attire and bring the holiday spirit.

We’re also collecting chocolates for the NHS, so please bring along what you can to spread some sweetness this season.

After what promises to be an exciting match, the celebrations continue! Dune Acoustic will perform three fantastic 50-minute sets starting at 4:50 PM, and the bar will be open until late.

Let’s finish the year in style. Bring your cheers, your festive flair, and let’s make it a day to remember!

Ashford v Pilgrims – KO 3.00pm
Rye 3rds v Canons – KO 2.00pm

Sunday 22/12

Canterbury Colts will be playing a tri-match v Thanet and another club yet to be confirmed, from 11.00am.

Canterbury Rugby Club and Marine Travel warmly welcome Sevenoaks RUFC and all other visiting clubs, players, and supporters.

We wish you all A very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

After the Canterbury U23 Prodigals v Tonbridge Juddians on December 28th, rugby resumes 04/01/2025 at the MTG with Canons v Dartfordians II and Deacons v Gravesend 3.

Bonus Keeps Pilgrims Top

Posted on | by David Haigh

SEVENOAKS 2ND 47 PILGRIMS 24

by Dan Gill

Pilgrims started the game very well and dominated the opening 10 minutes with forwards and backs linking effectively to drive Oaks back. They infringed numerous times in their 22m area and were lucky to escape a yellow card before prop Nathan Morris forced his way over out wide for a try, well converted by fly half Will Hilton, to give Pilgrims the lead. Sevenoaks responded with some fantastic rugby of their own which saw them capitalise on unusually sloppy Pilgrims defending and discipline after Will Hunt was yellow carded. They touched down four times in the next 20 mins to take a commanding 28-7 lead, securing their bonus point in the process, and leaving the pilgrims in need of a massive response.After stern words under the posts the Pilgrims responded to finish the half well, with Al Evans driving over for an unconverted score to it close at 28-12.  Oaks were quickly into their stride after the break and added a fifth try to lead 33-12 before the city side, having the better of the scrums, added a third try. The next score looked like it was going to have a massive bearing on the result as Pilgrims were starting to dominate the phase play and exert their physicality. Sevenoaks were reduced to 14 after their Number Eight was yellow carded but, sadly for Canterbury, that vital score went the home side’s way. They kicked long and duly won the line out after a well executed 50/22. From the resultant catch and drive Oaks stretched their lead to 40-19. With ten minutes remaining Pilgrims focus shifted to scoring a fourth try and a bonus point that would keep them top of the Counties 1 table. Despite some very good home defence, they secured it with five minutes remaining. Good front foot ball allowed the backs to cut loose and wingman Max Campbell cut through to score. Sevenoaks added a final converted score of their own on a day when Pilgrims came up against a side in even better form. The squad will be looking to bounce back when they travel to local rivals Ashford this coming Saturday.

DRAMA AND JOY FOR WINNERS

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

DORKING 34 CANTERBURY 35

by David Haigh

This slender but impressive Canterbury victory, which inflicted a first home defeat of the season on promotion hopefuls Dorking, hung on the last kick of the match. An 80th minute try left Craig Holland with a conversion that would have completed the home side’s late fight back and stolen the game. The kick fell short, Canterbury celebrated and justice was just about done. Dorking has not been a happy hunting ground for the city team in recent seasons and Head Coach Matt Corker described the win as a big step forward. “We had a simple plan,” he said “to be aggressive at the breakdown and keep the ball moving.” For much of the game it worked a treat as Dorking were knocked out of their stride and with the ball in hand Canterbury were sharp and incisive. They quickly got over an inauspicious start when a charged down kick brought Dorking’s Finn Osborne a try, converted by Henry Anscombe. Three minutes later Will Waddington’s dummy opened space for fellow centre Frank Morgan to stroll across for the try, converted by Frank Reynolds, and gave notice of their attacking threat. The defence was guilty of missed tackles when Will Scholes came up with the home side’s second touchdown, but Canterbury were soon back in the lead. Assured handling was the key and this time Aiden Moss, making his 200th league appearance, was the try scorer. Reynolds converted and before half time added two penalty goals. As the half closed, Tom Bloomer’s catch and drive score closed the gap to three points but for a city side which had played against the slope and the wind it was a job done. In the first twenty minutes of the second half they reaped the reward of that previous hard work. Reynolds kicked his third penalty goal and as Dorking came under mounting pressure Canterbury released the ball from a catch and drive and spread it wide where Heatherley scored. Next, they kept the drive tight for a bonus point score, with Eoin O’Donoghue making the touch down and Reynolds converting to open an eighteen point lead. It was in the final quarter that the drama unfolded as the Dorking pack found another gear, the city side were hammered by penalties and struggled to hold on to possession. Two close quarter tries from prop Tom Bristow, one converted, gave Dorking their chance and in a frantic final minute they worked wing Max Coyle across. As Canterbury held their breath the shot at goal and glory failed.

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

 

View match photos

v Dorking

Images may be subject to copyright – Phillipa Hilton

THE DORKING CHALLENGE

Posted on | by David Haigh

MATCH PREVIEW

Another stormy Saturday last week but this time we came away with the result we wanted. After a slow start and some early changes, we kicked into gear a earned a bonus point before half time. Too many handling errors in the second forty restricted us and although we did score a try which showed us at our very best, we left some points on the field. Another solid defensive effort kept Oxford scoreless in the second half and this area is going to be tested tomorrow as we travel to Dorking who sit in second place with a game in hand.

Dorking away for the last two seasons has been a disappointing Saturday. Even from their first season in the league, Dorking have been competing at the top of the table. Our disappointment is less from the result and more down to our performance. On both occasions we have conceded over 40 points and only started playing our rugby when the game was out of reach. Our focus this week is to put in a performance that we are proud of. The players are looking forward to the challenge.

The Pilgrims came through their own trial, seeing of fourth place Heathfield and Waldron 26-3. The strength of this team just gets better every week and a real positive from my perspective is the number of players representing the Canons who are part of the 1st XV and Pilgrims squad. We are fortunate to have such a wealth of talent; the players come and stay with us, get better each week and create great rugby memories. This will be tested this weekend as the Pilgrims travel away to Sevenoaks who lie in second place. We know this will be an important result come the end of the season and for us to return home happy will need one of our best performances.

Matt Corker, Head Coach

Around the Ground

Around the Ground at the MTG

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Last weekend’s games

1st XV 31 – 10 Oxford Harlequins: Canterbury powered to a well-earned victory at the Marine Travel Ground, lifting them to fifth place in National 2 East. A dominant first half saw them secure four tries and a bonus point, with Quins struggling under pressure and discipline issues.

Tries from Eoin O’Donoghue (2), Aiden Moss, and Tom Mackenzie, all converted by Frank Reynolds, set up a commanding 26-10 halftime lead. Despite a stronger defensive effort from Quins after the break, Canterbury sealed the win with a fifth try in the 73rd minute, as Kurt Heatherley set up Alfie Orris to cross the line.

A solid forward performance underpinned the victory, showcasing Canterbury’s strength despite missed opportunities in the second half.

Thank you to our sponsors for their continuing and valued support:

  • Match sponsor – Jenner
  • Match ball sponsors – BTF, Agrii
  • Lunch Sponsors – DDS Group, David Entwistle, Mark Richardson

View full match report

Pilgrims 26 – 3 Heathfield & Waldron: In challenging wet and windy conditions at the Marine Travel Ground, Pilgrims overcame a determined Heathfield & Waldron side, earning a 26-3 victory in Counties 1. All points were scored in the first half as Pilgrims leveraged solid forward play and clinical finishing to claim a bonus point.

Tries from Aiden Demery, skipper Al Evans, Harvey Young, and Tom Best showcased their attacking prowess, with Will Hilton adding three conversions. Heathfield managed an early penalty but struggled to find a way through Pilgrims’ robust defence.

The second half was marked by strong defensive efforts and handling errors, with both teams receiving two yellow cards. Pilgrims maintained control, dominating scrums and lineouts to see out the win.

Next Saturday promises a season-defining clash as Pilgrims face second-place Sevenoaks in a crucial showdown.

View full match report

Faversham 19 – 39 Canons: In challenging wet and windy conditions, the Canons secured a hard-fought 40-21 victory over Faversham, a recently relegated Counties 3 side. Canterbury dominated from the start, using their pack’s power and pace out wide to control the game.

First-half tries from Guy Hilton and Harry Jackson (2) gave the Canons a 21-14 halftime lead, despite Faversham scoring twice. Playing downhill in the second half, Canterbury capitalized on the conditions. Simon Jaynes, playing against his former club, scored the bonus-point try, followed by a 22-meter breakaway try from Adrian Geddes and a seventh from Tom Halliday after excellent phase play.

Though Faversham grabbed a consolation try in the final play due to a lapse in concentration, the Canons’ commanding performance keeps them 8 points clear at the top of Counties 4, with 10 wins from 11 games. They look to maintain their form this weekend as they host Sheppey at the MTG.

View full match report

Whitstable 2nds 29 – 20 Zingari

Colts Dragons 52 – 67 Colts Tigers: While Storm Darragh silenced the usual Sunday buzz at the Marine Travel Ground, Canterbury’s Colts created their own excitement on the Simon Langton4G. In a match embodying the club’s OneClub spirit, 40 players delivered a thrilling, try-laden game despite the challenging weather.

With senior Colts leading each side, the teams showcased attacking flair, racking up 19 tries in a Super Rugby-style exhibition. Locked at 45-45 with 10 minutes to go, the Tigers broke through with an intercept try, followed by two quick scores to secure victory.

A special shoutout goes to club referee Rich Collins for facilitating such a high-scoring and flowing game in tough conditions.

Player of the Match: Riley Soutan
Honourable Mentions: Oscar Sands & Archie Eddy

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

This weekend’s fixtures

Saturday 14/12

Dorking v 1st XV – KO 2.00pm
Sevenoaks v Pilgrims –  KO 2.00pm
Canons v Sheppey –  KO 2.00pm
Sheppey v Deacons –  KO 2.00pm
New Ash Green v Zingari – KO 2.00pm

Sunday 15/12

Canterbury Women v Tonbridge Juddian Ladies – KO 2.00pm

Mini and Youth

Minis

Mixed U6’s Grids – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U7’s Grids – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U8’s Simon Langton 4G – 9.00am to 10.00am
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 to 10.30am

Christmas Party to follow in the marquee.

Youth

Boys U12’s Amber v Medway (Away)
Boys U12’s Black v Dover (Away)
Boys U13’s Spitfires v Blackheath – Bottom Orchard KO 10.30am
Boys U13’s Hurricanes v TJ’s – Bottom Orchard
Boys U14’s v Lordswood – Top Pitch KO 10.30am
Boys U15’s v OE’s (Away)
Boys U16’s v Gravesend – Top Orchard KO 10:30am
Colts v Tonbridge Well’s (Away)

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

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