Month: December 2024

First Half Bonus For Pilgrims

Posted on | by David Haigh

Canterbury Pilgrims 26 Heathfield & Waldron 3

by Dan Gill

Pilgrims had to work hard at the wet and windy MTG to subdue a Heathfield & Waldron side that has been amongst the pace setter In Counties 1. Skipper Al Evans elected to play up the slope but with the wind in their favour in a first half that saw all of the games points scored.
Despite the conditions both sides were intent on moving the ball but the first try arrived after around eight mins from a well executed catch and drive line out. It allowed hooker Aiden Demery to dot down with Will Hilton narrowly missing his first shot at goal.
An infringement following kick off gave Heathfield a penalty in front of the posts to collect what turned out to be their only points of the afternoon. The Pilgrims responded immediately and after exerting their dominance at the scrum, the forwards set about testing the visiting defence with a series of quick drives that saw Evans force his way over from close range, Hilton this time adding the extras.
Heathfield looked to rally but Pilgrims robust defence absorbed everything they had to offer before going on the attack again. Slick handling from Hilton and Tom Best found full back Harvey Young who hit a very good line to leave a number of defenders in his wake as he touched down under the posts and make the conversion from Hilton a formality.
The bonus point fourth try quickly followed as good play by the forwards made inroads in the Heathfield defence before the backs used quick hands to exploit space down the blind side and send centre Best over in the corner. Hilton expertly added the extras to give the Pilgrims a 26-3 half time lead.
The second half was a combination of good defensive play from both teams and an increasing amount of errors. Pilgrims were in the ascendancy at scrum time and were having the better of the lineouts but despite the wind advantage, being second best at the set piece meant Heathfield were struggling to get a foothold in the game. An element of niggle crept in and yellow cards, two to each side, were handed out but Pilgrims defensive effort was once again top notch in difficult conditions as they saw out another bonus point win against a solid side. The team have a massive test next Saturday as they travel to Sevenoaks who are in second place in the table, just five points behind, in what could be a season defining game.

Pack Power Sets Up Victory

Posted on | by David Haigh

CANTERBURY 31 OXFORD HARLEQUINS 10

by David Haigh

Forward power underpinned this Canterbury victory which lifted them to fifth place in National 2 East on a cold and blustery afternoon at the Marine Travel Ground. By half time they had four tries and a bonus point tucked away as their dominance kept Quins on the defensive and were punished for their lack of discipline. After a bright start, with a catch and drive try after only two minutes, the visitors submerged under a wave of penalties and two yellow cards. Centre Archie Van Dijk was the first to head for the sin bin for a high tackle and the city side quickly took the lead with a driving maul and a try for hooker Eoin O’Donoghue, converted by Frank Reynolds. Once in front, Canterbury stayed there and when Quins skipper Willo Bicknell was next to see yellow they pushed further ahead as Reynolds threaded a kick behind the defence and Aiden Moss pounced for the try. There was a temporary set back when Quins produced an excellent 50/22 kick to create an opportunity for the pack and Allan Purchase added a try to the early Ben Bodingham score. That was the last time, however, they were seen as an attacking threat as Canterbury pinned them back and Tom Mackenzie burst on to Danny Herriott’s pass to score under the posts. Reynolds converted and was on target again as continued pressure brought O’Donoghue his second try on the stroke of half time. With a 26-10 scoreline the stage seemed set for a Canterbury stroll and with Quins scrum in full retreat after the break it was a reasonable assumption. It did not happen that way because the Oxford outfit put in a greatly improved defensive shift, the city side made costly handling errors and muddled thinking saw them ignore easy penalty points. It wasn’t until the 73rd minute that they found a way, with Kurt Heatherley giving Alfie Orris a clear overlap for the fifth try to complete a comfortable, if slightly low key, success.

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

View match photos

v Oxford Harlequins - 7 Dec 2024

Images may be subject to copyright – Phillipa Hilton

Canons Claim victory over Faversham to stay top

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

In wet and windy conditions, the Canons battled to a controlled and well deserved victory against Faversham, a team relegated from Counties 3 the previous season.

Cantebury controlled the game from the off, using the power of their pack to create forwards momentum, and pace out wide to run the heavy Faversham forwards around the park. A try for Guy Hilton and 2 tries for Harry Jackson in the first half, punctuated by 2 for Faversham meant the canons led 21-14 at half time.

In the second half and playing down the slope, the Canons were able to open up. Kicking to use the wind to their advantage, the Canons scored their bonus point after some good forwards work through Simon Jaynes (playing against his former club), quickly followed by a breakaway try from their own 22, finished by Adrian Geddes. Tom Halliday scored the 7th after some excellent phase play. Faversham had the last laugh, scoring in the final play of the game after a lapse in concentration by the Canons, with Liam Browne kicking the ball dead 10 seconds before the clock had turned red, giving a 5m scrum to Faversham.

At the half way point of the season, the Canons sit 8 points clear at the top of Counties 4 with 10 wins from 11 games. They welcome Sheppey to the MTG this weekend, looking to continue their form into the second half of the season.

Getting The Job Done

Posted on | by David Haigh

SATURDAY PREVIEW

I’ve shared a quote with the players previously, and I did again after the Henley game, from the great Bill Belichick. He was head coach of the New England Patriots during their six super bowls winning run. He says: “You get the job done or you don’t”. The first time I read this I didn’t feel that it applied to us; I felt it didn’t take into account all the other factors that can go against you in a game. I now understand that’s why it’s true. In any game you can be in control, in the lead for 79 minutes but to get the job done you have to be in that position for the full 80. To get the job done you have to take the opportunities that you create. The players away at Henley put in a great effort, they worked extremely hard in some of the worst conditions you can play in (I’m sure you’ve seen the photos) but we didn’t get the job done. There’s no shame in our performance but you could see how disappointed the lads were and that’s a not a bad thing.
We went into the week off with some clear objectives and the players have worked hard to make the two weeks of training as productive as possible. The conditions tomorrow are predicted to be a repeat of what we faced at Henley, so we have an opportunity to execute the same game plan, with the focus this week on going the distance.
Last time out, the Pilgrims had a mud fight of their own against Cranbrook. They came out well and truly on top with a 38-0 win. They have a big couple of weeks coming up starting with 4th place Heathfield and Waldron who visit the Marine Travel Ground on Saturday. This is followed by travelling to second place Sevenoaks next week and two wins will put them in a strong position.
Don’t let the weather put you off, with both the 1st XV and the Pilgrims at home for the first time since the start of the season it will be a big weekend at the club with plenty of important rugby on offer.

Matt Corker, Head Coach

Around the Ground

Around the Ground at the MTG

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Last weekend’s games

Deacons 35 v 12 Leigh: Blending youth and experience, the Deacons fielded a squad from both Kent Unis, Colts, and regulars. Facing Leigh, a well-drilled single-team club, our defence held strong despite an early setback that saw us trailing 5-7 at halftime.

The second half was a masterclass in teamwork. With Josh Lamb orchestrating from 10 and Finn MacCabe dazzling at 15 with two tries and flawless conversions, the backs found their rhythm, and the forwards dominated the set pieces. Standout defensive efforts from Tom Smith and Jadyn Moore sealed the deal.

We’re building momentum and always welcome new players to join the squad!

Zingari 27 v 10 Deal : In one of their finest performances of the season, the Zingari triumphed over a determined Lions side.

The Lions struck early with a penalty, but Canterbury hit back swiftly as Callum Townsend crossed the line after sharp work from the forwards. The Lions’ powerful pack regained the lead with a converted try, but just before halftime, Horun’s smart finish in the corner levelled the scores at 10-10.

The second half belonged to the Zingari. Felix Collins powered through for a try near the posts, converted by Tony Carollo. A stunning turnover led to a flowing team move, finished by Henry Collins under the posts for another easy conversion. Resolute Zingari defence kept the Lions at bay, and a late penalty by Carollo sealed a well-earned victory.

A spirited display and a testament to Zingari’s grit and flair!

Boys U12’s 30 – 0 Folkestone

Aylesford 5 – 35 Boys U13’s

Boys U14’s 41 – 15 Old Alleynians

Boys U15’s 33 – 12 Gravesend

TJ’s Academy U16A 27 – 10 Boys U16’s

Whitstable 32 – 5 Boys U16’s Dev

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

This weekend’s fixtures

Saturday 7/12

1st XV v Oxford Harlequins –  KO 3.00pm
Pilgrims v Heathfield and Waldron – KO 2.00pm
Faversham v Canons – KO 2.00pm
Whitstable 2nds v Zingari – KO 2.00pm

Mini and Youth this Sunday 8/12

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
Medway v Boys U12’s Amber – Away
Dover v Boys U12’s Black – Away
Boys U13’s Hurricanes v Old Dunstonians Top Orchard – KO 11.00am
Boys U13’s Spitfires v Old Dunstonians Bottom Orchard – KO 11.00am
Bromley v Boys U14’s A’s – Away
Boys U14’s B v Lordswood Top Pitch – KO 11.00am
Boys U15’s Simon Langton 4G – 10.30am -12.00pm
Boys U16’s v Blackheath at Kent College – KO 11.00am
OE’s v Colts 1st XV – Away
Colt’s Dragons v Tigers Simon Langton 4G – 12.00pm to 1.00pm

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

Farewell to David Hallwood

For those who want to say a final farewell to former Club President and Secretary who passed away recently, a service will be held at noon on December 12th at Herne Bay Crematorium.

Give More with Beach Street Restaurants This Christmas!

Beach Street Restaurants are spreading holiday cheer with an incredible offer. Purchase a £50 gift voucher this festive season and receive an additional FREE £25 voucher to use in January or February 2025 at any of their fantastic venues: The Coach, The Granville, The Coastguard, or 81 Beach Street.

These gift vouchers arrive as convenient e-vouchers, making holiday shopping effortless and stress-free.

Don’t miss this chance to treat yourself or someone special. Start shopping now—find all the details and buy your vouchers today!

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

We wish you all the best of rugby!

Join Us for CRFC Shopping Evenings!

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Get ready for two fantastic evenings of shopping, dining, and festive cheer at Canterbury Rugby Club!

When:

  • Wednesday, 4th December
  • Wednesday, 11th December
  • Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

What’s Happening?

  • Club Shop Open: Explore our range of CRFC merchandise and enjoy a special offer—spend over £50 and receive a FREE Canterbury hat!
  • Saucy Flo’s Specials: Indulge in their delicious main courses for just £10 and pre-order your Christmas Cheese Hampers—the perfect holiday gift!
  • Bar Open: Relax with a drink as our bar serves beers, spirits, wines, and soft drinks.

Don’t miss this opportunity to tick off your holiday shopping list, enjoy a delicious meal, and soak up the festive atmosphere with friends and family.

We look forward to seeing you there!