Month: April 2026

Composure Wins The Day

Posted on | by David Haigh

GUERNSEY 29 CANTERBURY 33

by Chris Fullbrook

Canterbury produced a determined and resilient performance to overcome a physical Guernsey side in an entertaining and hard‑fought encounter, showing composure at key moments to claim a bonus point victory. The match began with an early setback for the city side when Guernsey crossed for a converted try after sustained pressure. A loose Canterbury pass was intercepted and, although Max Campbell won the subsequent foot race, he was tackled in goal. Guernsey opted repeatedly to scrummage from penalties close to the line and Matt Creber eventually powered over and full back Tom Teasdale converted. Canterbury responded impressively. Their first try came after a flowing passage of play, sparked by Harry Sloan breaking the line and sending Ryley Thomas through a gap. Quick hands followed as the ball moved via scrum‑half Presley Farrance and Luke Talbot, before Thomas, who had continued to support, finished the move. Frank Reynolds’ conversion brought Canterbury level. Momentum swung further in the visitors favour shortly afterwards. A penalty kicked to the corner and the resulting catch‑and‑drive proved too strong for the Guernsey defence, with Jimmy Walker applying the finishing touch and Reynolds again converting.

The game then tightened, with Canterbury temporarily reduced to 14 men when Thomas was shown a yellow card midway through the first half. Guernsey made that numerical advantage count, capitalising on another loose pass which was intercepted before centre Jon Dawe raced in from 20 metres out. The try went unconverted and Canterbury reached the break leading 14-12 but now with gusting wind at their backs.

They began the second half brightly, a speculative kick from fly‑half Reynolds causing problems for the Guernsey fullback. His fumble allowed Reynolds to regather before feeding captain Jamie Stephens who set Max Campbell free. The wing showed outstanding pace to finish in the corner for the city side’s third try. Minutes later, Guernsey struck back; a midfield penalty was kicked to the corner and, from the ensuing line‑out, replacement hooker Tom Ceillam was at the back of the maul to bring this tight match to 17-19. The islanders continued to press and were awarded a penalty try following a scrum five metres out and Canterbury hooker Eoin O’Donoghue was sin‑binned. Despite being down a man, the side showed real character. to take back the lead. Defending inside their own 22, Guernsey attempted a clearance from the base of a scrum that was charged down by Stephens. He gathered, fed Will Waddington and the centre calmly popped a pass to Walker, who powered over for his second try of the afternoon, converted by Reynolds. Guernsey mounted a final push in the closing quarter and struck again through Dawe, who scored his second after a break from influential fullback Anthony Armstrong. The missed conversion kept the game finely poised at 29-26. With the match in the balance, Canterbury showed maturity in the final minutes and deep inside Guernsey territory, Reynolds kicked a penalty to the corner. The resulting ten‑man driving maul—backs and forwards combined—proved decisive, with O’Donoghue redeeming his earlier sin‑binning by grounding the ball for the fifth and decisive converted try

Canterbury: K.Heatherley, M.Campbell, H.Sloan, W.Waddington, L.Talbot, F.Reynolds, P.Farrance, D.Huntley, E.O’Donoghue, O.Frostick, J.De Vries, J.Stephens, J.Walker, R.Thomas, T.Oliver,. Replacements: J.Dengate, T.Williams, C.Macmillan, C.McGovern, A.English.

A Proud Moment for the Club: Father and Son Take the Field Together

Posted on | by Becca Williams

This past Saturday marked a truly special occasion for the club. In our Deacons’ fixture against Gillingham Anchorians, we witnessed father and son duo, Piers and Jerome, line up side by side, and help secure a fantastic win for the team.

Their appearance together isn’t just a one‑off highlight; it’s another addition to the long list of family pairings who’ve proudly worn the Black and Amber throughout our history. These moments reflect the heart of our club: community, legacy, and generations united through rugby.

Piers is a recent graduate of our Minis and Youth section, a testament to the strength of our player pathway and development programme. Jerome, meanwhile, is an ever‑present supporter, long‑standing club player, and our current Fixtures Secretary, giving back tirelessly both on and off the pitch.

Together, they embody what makes this club special.

Here’s to Piers, Jerome, and all the families who continue to shape the spirit and future of our club.

 

Pictured: Piers and Jerome Weigh

U16 Players Step Up to Represent Ealing Trailfinders Under 17s

Posted on | by Becca Williams

 

We are incredibly proud of three of our Under 16 players who stepped up to represent CHAMP side Ealing Trailfinders Under 17s over the weekend. Fred Hammond, Alfie Allan and Freddie Eastwood-Squire all pulled on the U17 shirt, showing maturity, commitment and quality well beyond their age group.

Despite a tough fixture, away against Glasgow Warriors U17s, the team delivered a competitive performance, eventually losing 52–36 in a high-scoring and entertaining match. The scoreline reflected the attacking intent and resilience shown throughout the game, with our players playing their part at every stage.

A special mention goes to Alfie Allan, who capped off his performance by getting on the scoresheet.

The players showed great attitude, physicality and composure, contributing to the team and demonstrating why they deserve opportunities at the next level.

As a club, we take huge pride in seeing our youth players progress through the pathway and earn representative opportunities. Coach Foz has created a team unrivaled in the Kent and South East area.

Fred, Alfie and Freddie fully embody our values on and off the pitch, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.

These kinds of experiences are vital in player development.

Representing Ealing Trailfinders Under 17s will help all three players grow, learn and bring extra knowledge and confidence back into our Under 16s environment.

Well done to all three lads on a strong showing at Under 17 level.

Next week sees Ealing Trailfinders Under 17s face another CHAMP side, Coventry, and we hope to see more Canterbury RFC Under 16 representation there, watch this space!

 

OUR BEST IS NEEDED

Posted on | by David Haigh

MATCH PREVIEW

It’s hard to remember a time when we have had three weeks in-season without a game. It’s felt unusual, but ultimately it has been a gift. At this stage of the year, bodies and minds are often weary after a long campaign and the final, most important, games can become a true test of resilience. To head into our final block fresh and recharged removes any excuses. Our focus is firmly on playing our best rugby of the season over the next four games.
When we review our season, our away form since Christmas will come under the microscope and digging into our last three away performances will be important. This weekend we travel to Guernsey for our final away fixture with a clear aim: to replicate the level of performance we have consistently shown at the Marine Travel Ground. On the road, Guernsey is a challenging place and only our best will be enough.
The Pilgrims face a huge fixture, away at Battersea. It would have been their final game of the regular season had the Sutton and Epsom fixture not been postponed until next week. Every point matters, with a 9th-place finish—and avoiding the relegation playoff—still within reach. Current ninth-placed Bromley take on Sutton and Epsom, who sit in eighth. The outcomes of both matches will play a significant role in shaping the final standings. After a week off and a strong week of training, the Pilgrims are ready to show they belong in Regional 2 next season.

MATT CORKER, HEAD COACH

Around the Ground at the MTG

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

The season may pause for Easter, but the spirit of Canterbury Rugby Club does not slow down.

As we head into the Easter weekend, we send our warmest wishes to every member of our Black and Amber family, players young and old, coaches, volunteers, staff, partners, and supporters. Thank you for everything you continue to give to this club. We hope you have a peaceful, happy Easter, and the chance to enjoy some well-earned time with family and friends.

This year, though, we do so with care and perspective. Our local community, and others further afield, have been affected by the recent meningitis outbreak, and our thoughts remain with everyone who has been impacted. At times like this, rugby reminds us of something important. We are more than teams and fixtures. We are a community that looks out for one another, supports one another, and stands together when it matters.

That spirit has been clear again this week.

On the pitch, the Pilgrims took a huge step forward with an impressive home win over Beckenham, keeping their survival hopes in their own hands and giving the MTG plenty to cheer. The Zingari showed real grit to battle back for a deserved draw, while the Canons produced a performance full of fight and nearly turned around a difficult afternoon. Across Mini and Youth, there were festivals, tours, tournament wins, and more brilliant signs of progress, from the Under 10s winning ten of twelve matches to the Under 12s being crowned tour winners in Skegness.

Off the field, the club once again showed what #OneClub really means. On Sunday we hosted another hugely important screening day with Cardiac Risk in the Young, with 95 young hearts screened and six individuals advised to seek follow up. That is awareness in action. That is community making a difference. It is something this club should be incredibly proud of.

There is plenty else in this issue too, from Top to Toe Fitness helping people reset their routines, to the countdown to the May Ball, Easter camps, pre match lunches, and all the good things that keep the Black and Amber family connected well beyond matchday.

So as Easter arrives, we reflect, we celebrate, and we stick together. That is what this club does best.

#OneClub #GetBehindUs

28th/29th March weekend scores roundup

Pilgrims 41 – 22 Beckenham
The Pilgrims kept their Regional 2 survival hopes firmly in their own hands with an impressive 41–22 victory over Beckenham in their final home game of the season.

Playing down the slope in the first half, Canterbury made a strong start. Tries from Tom Mackenzie and Owain Collins gave them early control before Beckenham hit back to narrow it to 10–7 at the break.

The Pilgrims came out firing in the second half. A superb counter attack finished by Max Campbell, converted from the touchline, stretched the lead, and from there Canterbury began to take control. Cam MacMillan powered over from close range to secure the bonus point, while Campbell added further tries to cap a sharp attacking display.

Beckenham stayed in the contest and picked up their own scores, but the Pilgrims’ aggressive defence and attacking intent proved decisive. Mackenzie added his second from a penalty, and a late score, created by a powerful break from man of the match James Everatt and finished by Campbell, sealed the win.

A strong, composed performance at a crucial stage of the season. One more win from the final two fixtures will secure the Pilgrims’ place in Regional 2 next season.

Canons 19 – 24 Gravesend II’s
It was a frustrating afternoon for the Canons as a young, energetic Gravesend side edged a close contest at the Marine Travel Ground.

Despite a strong start in the tight, Canterbury was caught out by Gravesend’s pace out wide, conceding two early tries. Discipline then proved costly, with two quick yellow cards reducing the hosts to 13 players. Although they defended bravely, Gravesend added a third score on the stroke of half time to lead 17–0.

The response after the break was excellent. Josh Lamb sparked the comeback with a powerful solo try, before further scores from Ollie Jeffery and Adrian Geddes closed the gap to 24–19 and set up a tense final quarter.

The Canons pushed hard for a fourth try to take the lead, but errors at key moments denied them the breakthrough. Gravesend missed a late penalty, allowing Canterbury to secure a losing bonus point from a hard-fought contest.

After the Easter break, the Canons face a tough run in against some of the league’s top sides, but will look to carry the positives from this performance into the final fixtures.

Zingari 17 – 17 Thanet III’s
The Zingari returned to action after a long-enforced break and were made to work hard in a closely fought contest with Thanet Wanderers.

Rust showed early on as Thanet dominated territory, but resolute defence kept Canterbury in the game until the visitors eventually crossed for an unconverted try. The response was excellent. A strong break into the Thanet half created the platform for Elliot Nye to slice through and score, with Rob Horan converting to give the Zingari a narrow half time lead.

The second half remained tight. Thanet regained the lead after capitalising on a loose clearance, but Canterbury continued to battle and were rewarded when Horan slotted a penalty to level the scores.

In a dramatic finish, Thanet struck again late on, but the Zingari refused to give in. With the final play, they launched one last attack and Nye once again delivered, crossing for his second try. Horan added the conversion to secure a hard earned and well-deserved draw.

Women’s 1st XV HWO Aylesford

Mini & Youth round-up

Another fantastic weekend across the Mini and Youth section, with festivals, fixtures, and tours showcasing the effort, development, and spirit that defines the Black and Amber.

Mixed Under 6’s
Player of the Week goes to Ellis for his hard work both on and off the ball. Always looking to make the right pass and, most importantly, playing with a huge smile on his face.

Mixed Under 7’s
The Under 7’s had a brilliant time at Ashford, showing respect, teamwork, and positivity throughout. The teams supported each other brilliantly when not playing, and the coaches were particularly impressed with their defending, strong tagging, and forward running to score tries.

Mixed Under 8’s
An excellent day for the Under 8’s at Folkestone. Both teams played with discipline and respect across all their matches. There were plenty of tries, with players showing great work rate and persistence. A special mention to Lizzy in the green team, who was outstanding. Several players experienced their first festival and came away eager for more.

Mixed Under 9’s
The Under 9’s performed superbly at Tonbridge Juddians in the Kent Mini’s Festival. Every player showed grit and enthusiasm, doing themselves and their coaches proud throughout the day.

Mixed Under 10’s
The Under 10’s entered three teams into the Kent Mini’s Festival, with an incredible twenty seven players representing Canterbury. Their love of the game and determination to perform shone through, winning ten of their twelve matches. A superb effort from the entire group.

Mixed Under 11’s
The Under 11’s took part in the Kent Mini’s Festival at Medway, working hard throughout the day. Their team positioning, support play, and communication were excellent, with the whole squad representing the club with pride.

Boys Under 12’s
The Under 12’s were away on tour in Skegness last weekend and delivered a fantastic performance. On Saturday they won all four games to progress into the cup competition. On Sunday they faced some of the strongest opposition they have encountered, battling through cold conditions to secure two wins and two draws, ultimately winning the tournament. A tremendous achievement.

Boys Under 13’s
The Under 13 mixed team travelled to Whitstable and came away with a strong 7 to 3 victory. It was particularly pleasing for the coaches to see recent training work being applied in the match. A big thank you to Whitstable for hosting.

Players of the Match were Algie and Joseph.

Girls Section
Molly continues to show excellent progress in the midweek girls sessions. Her hard work on her catch and pass was clear to see this week, with significant improvement in both accuracy and positioning to receive the ball on the move.

A brilliant week across the section, with players, coaches, and families all contributing to another strong showing for Canterbury Rugby Club.

95 young hearts screened

On Sunday 29 March 2026, Canterbury Rugby Club was proud to host another hugely important screening day in partnership with Cardiac Risk in the Young.

The result speaks for itself

95 young people were screened.

Of those, 6 individuals have been advised to follow up with their GP regarding symptoms, family history, or to undertake further tests.

That is exactly why this work matters.

Awareness in action

Many cardiac conditions show no obvious signs. Young people can appear fit, strong and healthy. Screening provides reassurance for the vast majority, and where concerns are identified, it allows early referral and further investigation.

Six young people will now take the next step. Six families have clarity and direction. That alone justifies the day.

This event does not happen by accident

It takes fundraising. It takes organisation. It takes volunteers. It takes families willing to book appointments and have important conversations.

As a club, we set out not only to raise awareness but to support the cost of bringing this life saving service to Canterbury. The response from our Black and Amber community once again showed what makes this club special.

We are incredibly proud to continue leading the way in supporting CRY screening at grassroots level.

The message remains the same

At least 12 young people die every week in the UK from undiagnosed heart conditions.

Screening saves lives. Awareness changes outcomes. Community makes it possible.

Thank you to every young person who attended, every parent who supported, every volunteer who gave their time, and everyone who donated to help make the day happen.

We protect our own.

Reset your routine with Top to Toe Fitness Canterbury

There is a familiar story for many of us. You have trained before, you know what it feels like to be fit and strong, but somewhere along the way life gets busy and consistency slips.

Top to Toe Fitness Canterbury has launched something designed specifically for that moment.

Based at Canterbury Rugby Club, their new 6 Week Routine Reset programme is built for those who are ready to get back into a rhythm that actually lasts.

This is not about quick fixes or short bursts of motivation. It is about building a routine that fits around your life and holds up when things get busy.

Built for real life, not perfect routines

Routine Reset is designed for people who have trained before but need structure, support, and accountability to stay consistent.

Over six weeks, you will receive:

  • Personalised coaching tailored to your current lifestyle
  • Small group training, with a maximum of eight participants
  • A clear, structured approach to rebuilding your routine
  • Support that focuses on sustainable habits, not quick wins

It is a simple idea, delivered properly. Help people train consistently again, and everything else follows.

Small group, big impact

By limiting each intake to just eight people, Top to Toe ensures every participant gets the attention and coaching they need.

It creates an environment that is focused, supportive, and built around progress. No one gets lost in the session, and everyone moves forward together.

Starting 20 April

The next intake begins on 20 April, with just eight spaces available.

If you have been waiting for the right time to get back into training, this is it.

No pressure, no noise, just a clear plan and the support to see it through.

Take the first step

Consistency is what drives progress, and progress is what keeps you going.

Reserve your place and reset your routine today:

https://goteamup.com/p/12396993-top-to-toe-fitness-canter/memberships/265922/

Because getting started again is one thing. Staying consistent is everything.

The countdown is on to the Canterbury RFC May Ball

Clear your diary, rally your friends, and get ready for one of the most spectacular nights in the Black and Amber calendar. The Canterbury RFC May Ball is back on Friday 22 May 2026, and it promises an evening packed with style, celebration, and unforgettable moments.

From the moment you arrive at 6.30pm, you will be stepping into a night designed to impress. Think elegant surroundings, a buzzing atmosphere, and the familiar warmth of the Canterbury rugby family coming together to celebrate another season.

Guests will enjoy a three-course dinner served at 7.30pm, before the night truly comes alive. There will be dancing, games, an auction, and a raffle, alongside crowd favourites including dodgems and a 360 photobooth, giving you plenty of chances to laugh, compete, and capture memories with friends old and new.

Providing the soundtrack to the night is FNKHAUS, bringing an irresistible mix of dance floor fillers, club classics, and party anthems. Whether you are first on the dance floor or waiting for your favourite song to drop, this is music made for letting your hair down and dancing the night away.

The dress code is Black Tie, so expect a room full of sharp suits, stunning dresses, and plenty of Black and Amber flair. It is a chance to dress up, celebrate in style, and enjoy the club at its most glamorous. Carriages are at 1.00am, but do not be surprised if you wish the night could go on even longer.

Tickets are £80 per head, and places are limited. This event always sells quickly, so early booking is highly recommended.

To secure your place, contact Kirsty Walder at kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk

This is more than just a ball. It is a night to celebrate friendships, memories, and everything that makes Canterbury Rugby Club special. Get behind it, get dressed up, and be part of a truly magical Black and Amber evening.

Join us for a Men’s 1st XV pre-match lunch at the Marine Travel Ground

There’s no better way to spend a home matchday than enjoying great food, great company, and great rugby.

Freshly prepared by SCRUM Kitchen, and full of the atmosphere that makes Canterbury Rugby special. Enjoy a three-course meal, the traditional speeches, and our raffle and auction before heading pitch-side to cheer on the Black & Amber.

Places still available at the re-arranged Men’s 1st XV v Oxford Harlequins pre-match lunch  –  2nd May

£35 per head

To book your place or table, contact kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk

Spaces are limited, so get your name down early and be part of the build-up to another big home game.

More than just matchday fuel

From the mighty Big SCRUM full English (featuring Preston Butchers’ sausages) to lighter bites like mushrooms on sourdough or Greek yoghurt with homemade granola, there’s something for every appetite. Veggie favourites like the Big Veg and smoky Spanish beans never disappoint.

Little scrummers are well catered for too. The Scrummies Menu serves up mini classics such as beans or eggs on toast, bacon rolls, or sugar pearl waffles, all with a drink for just £5.

With bread from Gilda Bakery and sweet treats from Beardy Bakery, everything is fresh, local, and full of flavour.

So why not start your day the rugby way? Come hungry, leave happy, and make SCRUM Kitchen part of your matchday ritual.

Book your table or brose our menus at https://www.scumkitchen.co.uk

Regular Opening Hours

  • Saturday: Breakfast from 9.00am.
  • Closed this Easter Sunday
  • Monday – Friday Breakfast served till midday
  • Pizza Nights (Tues, Wed, Thurs – 6.00pm to 8.00pm): Perfect for after training. Enjoy a pizza and a pint, or pre-order so the kids’ slices are ready as they come off the pitch. And if you’re the one training, what better way to round off your session than with a fresh slice. Check out the menus at https://www.scrumkitchen.co.uk

SCRUM Kitchen will be closed during the day 15th April due to a private function and will reopen for pizza and training at 6.00pm in the evening.

SCRUM Kitchen: Made with pride, served with heart, bringing local ingredients to our community table.

300 Club winners

Congratulations to our February and March winners:

February
97 x Greg Mayne
43 x John Scurr
119 x Bob Pilcher
91 x Dom Graham
86 x Michael Avery

March
45 x Giles Hilton
35 x C Dilnot – Smith
121 x Simon Ovenden
111x Jerry Copestake

Join us and support your rugby family
The 300 Club is one of the simplest ways to make a real difference to Canterbury Rugby Club. For just £5 a month, you help fund the projects, facilities, and opportunities that keep the Black & Amber family thriving.

Every month, members are entered into a cash prize draw, and at Christmas we celebrate with a bumper £1000 prize. It is our way of giving something back to those who back us.

Getting involved is easy. Visit the club website to download the application and direct debit forms, or get in touch with Jill for more details at 300club@cantrugby.co.uk.

Your support goes straight into the heart of the club. Be in it to win it, and help keep our One Club spirit strong.

We wish you all the best of rugby!

Pilgrims Match Report

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Pilgrims 41

Beckenham 22

 

The Pilgrims welcomed Beckenham to the MTG for their final home game of the season knowing that 2 wins from their final 3 games will secure their place in regional 2 for next season.

The reverse fixture was decided when the pilgrims missed the kick at goal with the final play of the game to give Beckenham the victory and the city side were keen to put that right and showed good intent from the first whistle as they attacked down the slope in the 1st half. The pilgrims looked solid in the set piece and that was giving the home backs a good platform to attack with Beckenham’s defence commendable in stopping a number of promising early attacks. The Pilgrims did get on the score sheet after 12 mins when a fine break from returning centre Garry Jones saw Tom Mackenzie in support to power over out wide for a 5-0 lead which was quickly followed by Owain Collins adding a second unconverted score before Beckenham hit back against the run of play to score a converted try, 10-7. HT.

Pilgrims kicked off the second half and instantly added their 3rd score when a loose Beckenham kick was secured by Constant and offloaded to Isaac Devine whose skillful run and offload found Collins who in turn put Bull in space before he found wingman Max Campbell who scored in the corner under pressure to cap a fine score that was converted well from the touchline by Hilton, 17-7. Beckenham looked to hit back and thought they had scored following a missed tackle by the ruck only for fullback Owain Collins to somehow get his body under the Beckenham player to prevent the grounding and force a goal line drop out.

The respite was short lived as Beckenham followed up with a fine break from their powerful number 8 and the Beckenham backs found their way over in the corner, 17-12.

Pilgrims added their bonus point score after good work from the forwards from a 5m penalty saw prop Cam MacMillan power over, 22-12. Max Campbell then added a 2nd following a strong run from Constant into heavy traffic, 29-12.

Beckenham were struggling to deal with pilgrims aggressive defence and an element of niggle started to enter the game. A push on Stan bull following a fine tackle saw him yellow carded after he was deemed to retaliate with a push of his own. Beckenham kicked the penalty to the corner and mauled well allowing them to break off the back and score out wide, 29-17. Pilgrims hit back 5 minutes later when fine interplay between forwards and backs saw pilgrims surge towards the line and only a cynical infringement from Beckenham prevented a score which saw their winger receive a yellow card and see both teams down to 14. Tom Mackenzie powered over from the resulting penalty to extend the lead to 36-17.

Pilgrims then gave away 2 penalties in quick succession that allowed Beckenham easy territory gains with the 2nd being kicked to the corner well. A well worked line out was mauled from 5meters out and the Beckenham scrum half broke off the back to dive over and score their bonus point try. 36-22.

With the clock ticking down the pilgrims added a further try-Man of the match James Everrat carried powerfully and bumped off an attempted tackler to get in behind. The ball was moved wide to Max Campbell and he dived over in the corner to cap a good pilgrims performance and bring the final score to 41-22. Pilgrims know that a win from either of their remaining two fixtures away at Battersea Ironsides on 11th April or Sutton & Epsom on 18th April will see them secure their place in regional 2 next season without the need for a playoff game.

Match Report. 28.03.26 Canterbury 5th v Thanet 3rds

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Match Report. 28.03.26

Canterbury 5th v Thanet 3rds

Canterbury5th 17pts.  Thanet 3rd  17pts.

Canterbury returned to the field after a long-enforced absence due to a series of cancelled fixtures that showed in the opening quarter against their old adversaries Thanet Wanderers. This looked obvious from the start with Thanet dominating most of the territory only some resolute tackling stopped them from being overrun. The Zingari held out until they succumbed  in the twentieth minute after a period of sustained pressure, Thanet worked the ball wide touching down in the corner for an unconverted try. The city side could have broken after a further period of Thanet pressure but they maintained their structure, and after a break into the Thanet half the forwards released the ball to the backs for Elliot Nye breaking the defensive line to go over near the posts, and with Rob Horan’s  conversion to follow to snatch a slender two point  lead taking them into halftime.

 

The second half saw both sides battle for territory with the Zingari forwards beginning to look their old selves until a poor clearance kick gave the Wanderers a free run at the line to squeeze in at the corner taking back the lead. This seemed to have an effect on Canterbury who doubled their efforts  launching a series of attacks that they somehow managed to squander that would have put them out of sight. Instead, their only reward was a penalty converted by Horan levelling the scores. With the game now going into the last minutes the city side were  delt another blow after another poor clearance kick was punished ending in a try near the posts, and this time with a successful conversion. With the game now entering stoppage time the Zingari forwards managed to regain possession launching their backs in one last effort finding that man Elliot Nye who finished it off, and with Rob Horan’s  conversion brought the game to a final exciting, and honourable conclusion

Canons Match Report

Posted on | by Becca Williams

It was disappointment for the Canons, as a young Gravesend side came out winners in a close game at the MTG.

 

Expecting a big, physical opposition, it was all change for Gravesend as they lined up with a team full of graduating colts and youngsters.  Although Canterbury were strong in the tight opening phases, Gravesend quickly used the speed and pace advantage that their young side possessed to break and use the width to score in the corner.   Canterbury regathered, but it was almost a mirror play.  Although Canterbury got back to make a last ditch tackle, the referee deemed for there to have been a deliberate knock on in the covering defence which resulted in a yellow card.  Gravesend kicked from the corner and broke off from the maul to score.   From the kick off, there was a high tackle from Canterbury, resulting in a second yellow card and reducing Canterbury down to 13 players for a period of 9 minutes.  Despite this, the team kept Gravesend out, however in the last play of the half, Gravesend scored again to increase their advantage to 17-0 at the break.

 

After some strong words at half time, and a game plan to utilise the physical advantage that Canterbury had over Gravesend, the home team came out firing.  From a clearing kick, Josh Lamb collected the ball in the Canterbury half and broke through a number of tackles to score under the posts.    Gravesend reacted well, and responded within 5 minutes with a bonus point score of their own.  The home side were not going to roll over, and continued to use their forwards to break down Gravesend.  Scores followed for Ollie Jeffery from a well worked tap and go penalty, and shortly after from Adrian Geddes for the scoreline to read 19-24.  With 10 minutes to play, a fourth Canons try felt like it was on the cards, however poor execution and errors meant that Canterbury were unable to breach the tryline again.  Gravesend looked to end the game with a penalty kick for the posts, but this slid wide and the Canons maintained their losing bonus point.

 

With a break for Easter, the Canons have a tough run in for the end of the season, welcoming 2nd place Tunbridge Wells to the MTG, and visits to 4th place Whitstable and 3rd place Hastings.  Nonetheless, the team will be looking to have a positive end to the season, and cause an upset in these games.