Month: October 2025

Pilgrims Match Report v Bromley

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Bromley 38 Pilgrims 30

Two late penalty goals ensured Bromley ran out winners and Pilgrims hade to be content with a losing bonus point.
The home side opened the scoring with a chip over the top with Pilgrims defence out of position which allowed the left wing to race through and score an unconverted try.
Pilgrims reply was positive and set the tone for the remainder of the half as they looked dangerous when getting the ball to the edges. They spread good line out ball was spread wide to test the defence before a strong drive from flank forward Tom Mackenzie saw Pilgrims level the score. They were on the front foot again as they asserted their dominance at the lineout, forcing a number of Bromley errors, but it was soft defending that led to the home side taking the lead, slightly against the run of play. Pilgrims looked to have the attack covered, but a missed tackle allowed them in to exploited a simple two on one for a converted score.
Pilgrims responded well and again applied pressure at the set piece which saw Owain Collins reduce the arrears with a well taken penalty goal. The city side had clear ascendancy at the lineout and this was giving the backs a good platform to launch attacks. They moved the ball well before another great line from Mackenzie saw him race through a gap and his classy show and go sent the Bromley defence for a hot dog to put the Pilgrims back into the lead.
From the Kick off, Canterbury were straight back on the front foot with prop Cam MacMillan going on a punishing 20 metre run. Quick ball was moved well before Mackenzie again picked a great line, this time opting to offload to the supporting Paddy Parker who dotted down for the city sides 3rd try and a 12-22 lead.
Pilgrims then gave away needless field position with poor ruck management, giving Bromley a penalty which they kicked to the corner. From the resulting 5m lineout a short pass to the front of the line caught the defence cold and allowed Bromley to add a third unconverted try. Again the city side response was positive, attacking from good line out ball, and when momentum was stopped by a Bromley high tackle Collins stepped up to slot the penalty.
With the half drawing to a close, more suspect Pilgrims defence at the ruck allowed saw Bromley add another score against the run of play to limit Pilgrims half time le to 24-25.
The second half started as an arm wrestle with Pilgrims still having the better of the set piece, but Bromley playing the slope well and looking to keep the city side pinned in their own half.
A rare scrum penalty saw the home side recapture the lead with a penalty goa and then added a further try after a Pilgrims long clearance was returned with interest, poor defensive alignment a allowing them a simple score.
The city side continued to look dangerous and found a deserved bonus point try through a powerful run by AJ Masaka, leaving the game finely balanced 32-30.
Despite having opportunities to add to their tally, good home defence and some questionable decision making saw Bromley close out the game with two well struck penalties. as an entertaining g Pilgrims gave another improved performance with their next game at home to Dartfordians at the MTG in what promises to be a keenly contested affair.

Deacons Match Report v Maidstone 2’s

Posted on | by Becca Williams

By Pete. Age 44 1/2.

Determined Deacons fall short after Maidstone’s fast start.

From the off it was clear it would be a tough day at the office with Maidstone fielding a strong youthful team. The visitors started with a period of sustained attack eventually scoring in the first quarter. The pace of play was incredible as Maidstone stretched a dogged defence.Inevitability they went ahead if the home side with a couple of quick tries.

The Deacons once again put out a team blending CCCU students with regular players and some faithful Zingari warriors stepping up to help out. As always it took a period of time for the home side to settle in & the defence continued to be stretched by a Maidstone team with a number of big runners and quick wingers.

That light was snuffed out in the fullness of time with Maidstone proving to be too strong on defence when Canterbury had the ball. No doubt we left some points on the pitch but against a strong 2nd team whose average age was lower than most of my socks we were beaten.
Dan Head once again proved to be excellent at 10, appearances from the reviled Si Crossly & some strong running from Jake Price were fantastic to see, as was our scrum, Maidstone using every prop on their bench to try and thwart the Canterbury scrum.

We came 2nd.

Never knowingly beaten the Deacons struck back before half time keeping hopes alive.

POTM – Ash the Flash

 

Canons Match Report vs Sittingbourne

Posted on | by Becca Williams

By Tom Short

With 4 weeks having passed since their last league fixture, the Canons faced a difficult trip to early league leaders Sittingbourne in a bid to kick start their season.  The task was made harder with 5 forced changes to the line up on Friday due to illness, injury and call ups to the Pilgrims.

With both teams lining up for a minute’s silence before kick off in memory of a Sittingbourne club stalwart who had recently passed away, the power and size advantage that ‘Bourne possessed was clear to see.   And this was soon shown on the pitch, with Sittingbourne using their power, combined with the skill of their fly half to race into a 3 try advantage after 20 minutes.   Canons heads did not drop, and they were finally kickstarted into life following a dominant tackle by Man of the Match Josh Lamb.  Suddenly passes went to hand, half breaks were made, and the Canons were rewarded with their first try of the game.  Sittingbourne overthrew at a lineout, before Jake Forrest collected and went on a powerful run.  The ball was recycled quickly, and made its way to Lamb who beat 4 defenders before being caught by the ‘Bourne winger 10m out from the try line.  He offloaded to winger Jimmy Carlton, who finished well to get the Canons on the scoreboard.  The Canons continued to dominate for the remainder of the half, but could not cross the whitewash thanks to Bourne’s well organised defence, and as the whistle blew for half time the score stood at 19-7 to the home team.

The Canons carried the momentum immediately into the second half.  Following a knock on from the kick off, Canterbury retained possession from their scrum before Lamb broke the line with silky footwork again to create a two on one with winger Harvey Lee, who finished to bring the Canons within 5 – the try was converted by the faultless boot of Kieran Shave.  As the Canons continued to threaten the Sittingbourne defence, ‘Bourne reverted to type when they had possession.  The ‘Bourne forwards dominated in scrum, and eventually the Canons momentum withered, and despite valiant defensive efforts Sittingbourne collected 3 tries in a 20 minute period, from a collective distance of around 9 yards.   Nonetheless, the Canons had the final say in the game, with hooker Ollie Jeffery powering over from 10 minutes in the final play of the game.  Final score, Sittingbourne 36, Canons 21

 

This Saturday brings what is now deemed to be a grudge match against Old Williamsonians.  The only team to beat the Canons in their victorious Kent Counties 4 season, the weekend presents an intriguing game with both teams searching for a first league win of the season.  Be sure to head the MTG to cheer on the Canons.

First Half Blast

Posted on | by David Haigh

CANTERBURY 56 HAVANT 26

by David Haigh

A commanding first half show from Canterbury, which saw them run in five tries, set up this decisive bonus point victory. It left Havant looking for consolation prizes, a late score earning them a valuable point, but for much of this National 2 East clash they were distinctly second best. The city side were positive from the off, putting width on their game at every opportunity, but it was a hard carrying pack that made the first breach and ended up doing most of the scoring. The visitors held out for nine minutes before Tyler Oliver powered through the tackles to make the first touchdown and the pattern was set. Canterbury took in their stride a yellow card for Presley Farrance, showing defensive nous and grabbing a second try as Ryley Thomas profited from Charlie McGovern’ s neat offload. The visitors were then plunged into real trouble by two further tries only two minutes apart. There was a second for Oliver and one for McGovern, after Jamie Stephens break had punched yet another hole in Havant’s defences. With Frank Reynolds perfect conversion rate the Hampshire side were vanishing in the rear view mirror and before half time the backs joined in the spree. Wing Harvey Furneaux won the chase for Reynolds slide kick but Havant finally mounted a reply through a catch and drive try from Archie Cleave, converted by Joel Knight. However, at 35-7 the game had gone away from them and eleven minutes into the second half McGovern got his second try, following a break by Eoin O’Donoghue. Havant pulled one back through Scott Thomson, converted by Jacob Knight, but at the hour mark prop Lewis Young finished some heavy pounding of the visitors line with Canterbury’s seventh try. Injuries forced a reshuffle in the city ranks so when Furneaux made the final touchdown in the75th minute he was operating as an emergency flanker. Canterbury’s adventurous approach did carry risks and errors in the closing five minutes allowed Havant the benefit of a bonus point. That came from two catch and drive tries for Sean Shepherd , one converted by Jacob Knight, but it was a small light at the end of a rather long tunnel.

Canterbury: P.Farrance, G.Jones, L.Talbot, W.Waddington, H.Furneaux, F.Reynolds, T.Williams, D.Huntley, E.O’Donoghue, O.Frostick, C.McGovern, J.Stephens, J.Walker, R.Thomas, T.Oliver. Replacements: T.Barton, O.Hewett, L.Young, J.Dengate, H.Kenny

OUR FOCUS ON ATTACK

Posted on | by David Haigh

MATCH PREVIEW

When going away to any team, especially one of the top three, having a good start is crucial. Applying enough pressure to force three yellow cards in the opening stages is the definition of a strong start and the players came out of the blocks in challenging conditions to turn the heat up on Dorking.
In that opening quarter we had ample chances to be 21 points ahead but lacked the ruthless edge we showed the previous week, converting our pressure and field position into only a seven-point advantage. That lead was all but nullified in the final play before half-time when a missed tackle allowed Dorking back into the game.
In the second half we lost the scrum battle and couldn’t show the right pictures to the referee, despite the lads best efforts to regain parity. Combined with our inability to maintain possession long enough to rebuild the pressure we had in the first half, Dorking were able to pull away, leaving us with a disappointing final scoreline. Disappointing, but lots of learning.
Tomorrow, Havant visit the Marine Travel Ground, sitting just one place ahead of us in the table. Our focus this week has been on reigniting our attack into the dangerous weapon it has been for us previously. We know the team we are when that part of our game is firing and it’s something we take great pride in.
Regardless of last Saturday’s result, the Pilgrims continue to make improvements in their performances. The group is working hard and the game against Brighton was exactly the kind of challenging fixture we wanted. The players are developing both individually and collectively every week. They head to Bromley tomorrow with a few returning faces, all hungry to secure their first win.

MATT CORKER, HEAD COACH

NEW RECRUITS

Posted on | by David Haigh

WELCOME OWEN AND TOM

Two new players are named in the first team squad for the home game against Havant. Owen Hewett (Tonbridge Juddians) and Tom Barton (Blackheath) join us on loan deals to help relieve a growing injury list in the senor squad back division. Centre Harry Sloan is the latest to be ruled out after sustaining a rib injury at Dorking. He joins Alfie Orris, Aden Moss, Frank Morgan and Kurt Heatherley on the sidelines.

Deacons Match Report

Posted on | by Becca Williams

19 – 26

An ever growing Deacons side hoped to capitalise on the close win away a couple of weeks earlier. With some key regulars returning to the fold, both of the crowd went simply mild with the prospect of two 4th team heavyweights going at it for 80 minutes.

 

It was nervy from the off with the Deacons defending well but struggling to get across the gain line in possession.

As is often the case with the ever changing Deacons side, they quickly settled into the game mentality and went to work.

Despite picking up an early yellow (welcome back John after a season away for the birth of your daughter!) the defensive line was strong and counter attack was blistering.

Medway picked up a yellow to even the sides & Canterbury went on to score twice before half time.  Dan Head kicked the extras proving an asset from kicking wide to controlling the back line.

 

The second half bought some changes as the home side were honoured with some extra men.

Organisation and discipline were not our strong points across the second half first 20 and Medway dotted down twice quite quickly. Buoyed by their efforts the visitors had some wind in their sails & a desperate 5 minutes saw some more changes for the home side. With a reinvigorated scrum and set piece the game was on!

Medway were strong through the forwards scoring a try from a rolling maul, yet Canterbury were quick to reply, and with time against them, went for another.

Medway conceded penalty after penalty to see the home men get closer to their line.

But it was not to be. The clock went red. Medway had the game and celebrated like a crackhead on giro day.

Deacons needed 5 more minutes to finish the job.

Nonetheless. Spirit, effort, attitude, sportsmanship. Everything you expect from a Deacons side who gave it everything and played with heart.

We go again Saturday.

 

POTM – Ethan Tighe

Zingari Match Report

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Match Report. 04.10.25

Canterbury 5ths v Dartford Valley 2nd

Canterbury 12pts. Dartford Valley 2nd 33pts.

By Colin Scurr

 

The Zingari were away to Dartford Valley 2nds with a depleted side despite the lack of numbers and players out of position the city side gave they gave a good account of themselves against a strong well drilled opposition.  In fact, it was Canterbury who drew first blood with a crafty chip through gathered by Henry Collins to touch down out wide. However, Dartford soon rallied, and after some forward power play had a converted try under their belt followed fifteen minutes later with a similar play touched down under the posts for the simple conversion. The city side did well with some heroic midfield tackling stemming the tide but on the stroke of half time Dartford claimed another converted try after Canterbury just ran out of tacklers. At the start of the second half Canterbury looked as they might concede a Dartford ran in another converted try followed five minutes later with an unconverted try out wide. This looked as if this could turn into cricket score but the city side upped their game shutting down Dartford’s onslaught again with some aggressive tackling and winning turnover ball. It was a turn over ball in the last quarter that gave Canterbury’s Simon Jaynes space to jink his way through a scattered defense from halfway touching down under the posts. Just to add a little more to the final score line Piers Weigh stepped up for a drop kick conversion to give the final score a little more respectability.

 

Fighting Through the Storm: Canterbury Push Medway in Gritty Battle

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Final Score: Medway 29 – 10 Canterbury
Date: Saturday 5th October

The 5th of October brought a blustery challenge for Canterbury Women as they faced Medway away in the tail end of Storm Amy. With strong gusts affecting play throughout, both sides had to adapt quickly. Illness left Canterbury with reduced numbers, but this didn’t hold the team back from putting in a determined performance against strong opposition.

The game began with a knock-on from the kick-off, giving Medway an early scrum. Canterbury’s pack, however, were unfazed and dominated throughout the contest. The forwards set the tone with big carries from #5 Emma Alleyne, #1 Alex Mills, #8 Amber Waitimas, and #3 Lizzie Deverson, while #2 Inger Philpott, #4 Shepherd, #6 Payne, and #7 Brennan worked hard at the breakdown to secure possession and slow Medway’s attack. The strong winds made lineouts difficult to control, but #6 Rosie Payne worked tirelessly at the back bookend, collecting loose balls in both attack and defence and gaining valuable ground for Canterbury.

Medway were first on the scoreboard, breaking down the wing for the opening try. But Canterbury quickly hit back. A move called by #10 Layla Little opened up space and, after some excellent support play and offloads, #11 Alice Hayward crossed the line for Canterbury’s first try.

The back three, Hayward, #14 Lola Yuille-Clough, and #15 Emily Moriarty, worked tirelessly in the backfield, fielding Medway’s kicks and pushing play back up the pitch. In the centres, #12 El Crowe and #13 Lily Philpott combined well, using strong carries to punch holes in Medway’s defence and keep Canterbury on the front foot. Meanwhile, captain #9 Lucy Relf kept spirits high and the team organised, leading with encouragement and direction.

In the second half, Canterbury began to use the conditions to their advantage. Fly-half Layla Little managed the wind brilliantly, kicking downfield to relieve pressure and exit the 22, or finding touch with penalties awarded from Medway mistakes to gain territory and keep the side moving forward.

Canterbury’s second try came from Little herself, who intercepted a pass 30 metres out, dummied the defence and powered through with a hand-off to score. It was a moment that showed Canterbury’s willingness to fight for every chance.

With around 20 minutes left to play, Canterbury were forced to continue with 14 players after an injury. Despite the setback, the team kept their heads high and worked for each other, showing huge determination to try and prevent conceding any further points.

Despite their efforts, Medway made the most of their chances and stretched the score line to 29–10 by the final whistle. Still, in tough conditions and against the odds, Canterbury showed plenty of heart and resilience.

Forward of the Match went to Lizzie Deverson, who impressed with her work rate and physical presence just one game after her debut. Back of the Match was awarded to Alice Hayward for her tireless running, defensive effort, and leadership in helping to direct the backline.

A gritty performance from Canterbury Women, proving that even in defeat, the team’s fight and spirit remain strong.

The Women’s 1XV now look ahead to their next fixture, which is part of the Papa Johns Community Cup against Beckenham at home on Saturday 26th October. Please come down and support our women.

Scrum Kitchen Serves Up Another Match Day Winner

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Canterbury Rugby Club’s Pilgrims Pre Match Lunch is fast becoming a fan favourite, and it’s easy to see why. With delicious food, great company, and a buzzing clubhouse atmosphere, it’s a fresh way to kick off match day in style.

Following the success of our Brighton fixture lunch, we want to say a huge thank you to everyone who booked and joined us. It was a fantastic way to prepare for the game, and your support helped make the day extra special.

Next Up: Saturday 18th October 2025

Scrum Kitchen returns with another mouth-watering menu ahead of our next home game:

Main Course: Thai green chicken curry served with rice

Dessert: Coconut cheesecake with pineapple & passion fruit coulis

Price: £15 per head

Schedule: Welcome drinks at 1pm, lunch served at 1.30pm in the clubhouse

Whether you’re a regular or joining us for the first time, we’d love to welcome you to the table. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of club spirit, shared stories, and the build-up to kick-off.

Thank You to Our Partners

Special thanks to our event supporters: Marine Travel, Preston Family Butchers, and Foodari—your contributions help us deliver a top-tier experience every time.

Bookings are now open—don’t miss out on the next one! Email Scrumkitchen@cantrugby.co.uk