News
Around the Ground at the MTG
It’s been another action-packed week at Canterbury RFC, with teams delivering some thrilling performances across the leagues. From hard-fought victories to valuable lessons on the pitch, our squads have shown incredible determination, resilience, and teamwork.
We’re also proud to celebrate Fady Sheta’s international call-up, as he represented Egypt in the 10th Arab Rugby 7s Tournament in Alexandria last weekend. A fantastic achievement for both Fady and the club!
Off the field, excitement is building for the May Ball on Friday, 23rd May, a night of fine dining, entertainment, and celebration—don’t miss out on what promises to be a spectacular evening.
Read on for all the latest match reports, club news, and upcoming events. #OneClub Weekend roundup
1st XV 23 – 46 Tonbridge Juddians: Canterbury put up a spirited fight against league leaders Tonbridge Juddians but ultimately fell short in a tough National 2 East encounter. An early Frank Reynolds penalty gave the city side a brief lead, but Juddians capitalised on Canterbury’s mistakes, with their hooker Will Colling scoring a hat-trick from driving mauls. Injuries to key players forced Canterbury into a reshuffle, but Reynolds’ kicking kept them in contention at 22-9 at half-time.
A resurgent Canterbury dominated the third quarter, closing the gap to six points with a well-finished try from Frank Morgan. However, handling errors and a strong Juddians defence prevented further scores. The visitors took full control in the final ten minutes, punishing Canterbury with three late tries. A last-minute effort from Sam Rogers, converted by Reynolds, provided some consolation, but the league leaders’ clinical finishing proved decisive.
Pilgrims 27 – 20 Beccehamians: Pilgrims avenged last season’s heavy defeat at Beccehamians with a determined 27-20 victory, keeping them top of Counties 1. Despite conceding an early converted try, they responded well with an Owain Collins penalty before Henry Kenny powered over for yet another try in his remarkable scoring streak. Collins added another penalty before Gus Lister finished a well-worked backs move, giving Pilgrims a 20-12 half-time lead.
A scrappy second half saw Beccehamians close the gap with a penalty, but Pilgrims sealed the win late on when prop Nathan Morris intercepted a loose pass to score under the posts. The home side managed a last-minute try for a losing bonus point, but Pilgrims’ solid defence and set-piece dominance ensured an important win. They now have a week off before facing local rivals Dover on 1st March.
Canons 46 – 22 Bromley 2nd: With five games remaining, the Canons knew victory was essential in their Counties 4 title push—and they delivered with a dominant finish against Bromley. Despite conceding an early try, they responded with a penalty and two first-half tries from captain Ben Jones and Will Rayner to lead 20-15 at the break.
Bromley fought back to take the lead in the second half, but the Canons stepped up in the final 15 minutes. Josh Lamb’s break restored their advantage before Harry Jackson and Vaughan Rothery added tries. Lamb then sealed the win with a superb second, latching onto Rayner’s pinpoint grubber.
With two tough away fixtures ahead, including a key clash against second-place Old Williamsonians, the Canons know their fate is in their hands.
Deacons 0 – 66 Sittingbourne 2nds: A depleted Deacons squad, bolstered by CCCU players, faced an experienced and well-drilled Sittingbourne side that started fast and capitalised on their cohesion. With several players out of position, it took a half to settle, but by then, a 33-point deficit left a mountain to climb.
Despite the challenges, the Deacons’ determination never wavered. Tom Smith impressed on his return from injury, Jasper Emmanuel shone in a new role at 12, and the team continued to test the opposition defence. Sittingbourne’s strong breakdown work limited scoring chances, but the Deacons controlled the second half, forcing mistakes and penalties.
Though the game ended 59-0, the squad’s resilience and discipline stood out. Captain Brad Nicholson earned POTM for his leadership, kicking, and defensive efforts.
Zingari 14 – 12 Old Gravesendians 2nds: In a fiercely contested match, the Zingari held on in the dying moments to secure a hard-fought victory. Gravesend started strongly, dominating early territory and scoring the opening try, but a quick response from Rob Horan brought Canterbury level. A well-worked try just before halftime gave the visitors a narrow five-point lead.
The second half saw both sides battle for control, with neither able to dominate in the set piece. As the game entered the final quarter, a series of Gravesend penalties allowed Henry Collins to power over the line, with Horan’s conversion giving the Zingari a slender two-point lead.
With time running out, Gravesend launched a relentless final attack, but Canterbury’s heroic defence held firm. A crucial clearance in injury time secured a dramatic and well-earned victory for the Zingari.
Boys U15’s 50 – 0 Chelmsford: Canterbury welcomed last year’s Essex champions for a friendly and showed exactly why they are the team to beat this season. From the opening whistle, the home side controlled the game, moving the ball with confidence and shutting down opposition attacks before they could develop.
Despite their reputation, the visitors struggled to match Canterbury’s pace and precision. An early lead set the tone, with well-worked goals adding to the scoreboard. Credit to the opposition for making the trip, but there was no doubt about the better side on the day.
A sharp attacking display, disciplined defence, and relentless energy made for a dominant performance—if this form continues, it promises to be a thrilling season ahead.
Colts 48 – 33 Club Atlético San Isidro: Canterbury Colts had the honour of hosting Argentinian touring team CASI in a last-minute fixture at the Simon Langton 4G on Wednesday. The match was played in three 30-minute periods, allowing all 45 players to take part in a highly competitive and entertaining evening of rugby.
CASI started strong, taking the first third 15-5, but Canterbury responded well in the second, matching their physicality to edge a 25-20 scoreline. In the final period, both teams fielded their strongest line-ups, with Canterbury dominating the set piece and proving too strong in attack despite CASI’s determined defence.
A fantastic evening of rugby, showcasing skill, resilience, and international camaraderie.
Colts Tigers 50 – 0 Deal Colts 1st XV: Canterbury Colts delivered a commanding performance on the Top Pitch, overpowering Deal Colts with an impressive display of running rugby. The home side ran in ten tries, leaving the visitors struggling to contain their relentless attack.
Freddie Philpott (2), Andrew Thomas, Bobby Noone, Josh AE, Eddie Coupe, Oscar Sands, Oli Harding, Charlie Roberts, and Oli Crowther all crossed the whitewash, with every try expertly converted by Oli Harding.
A dominant showing from start to finish, this was a statement performance from a confident Canterbury side.
Sidcup 1st XV 38 – 17 Colts Dragons: Canterbury Colts Dragons faced a challenging away fixture against a well-drilled Sidcup side, falling to a defeat in a fiercely contested match.
Despite flashes of quality and determined attacking play, Canterbury struggled to break through Sidcup’s resolute defence. Tries from Ryan Beerstrecher, Riley Soutan, and Gam Esan—who combined brilliantly with Cai Redmond for a slick chip-and-chase finish—showcased the Dragons’ attacking potential. Scrum-half Barney Smith controlled play well, while captain Piers Weigh led from the front, keeping the team focused until the final whistle.
Though the result didn’t go their way, the Dragons showed resilience and will take valuable lessons into their next fixture.
Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to another exciting year of rugby action!
Next fixtures
Saturday 22nd February
No senior men’s games
Sunday 23rd February
Canterbury Women v Jersey Women – Away KO 12.00pm
Mini and Youth
Mixed U6’s Simon Langton artificial 4G – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U7’s to U11’s – Away at Medway RFC
Boys U12’s Simon Langton artificial 4G – 9.00am to 10.30am
Boys U13’s Simon Langton artificial 4G – 10.30am to 12.00pm
Boys U14’s Simon Langton artificial 4G – 10.30am to 12.00pm
Boys U15’s v Sevenoaks (Away)
Boys U16’s v Maidstone – Top Orchard KO 11.00am
Colts 2nds v TJ’s – Top pitch KO 11.30am
Please check the Mini & Youth webpages for updates
Canterbury Rugby Club and Marine Travel extend a warm welcome to all visiting teams, players, and supporters.
Canterbury’s Fady Sheta represents Egypt at Arab Rugby 7s
The 10th Arab Rugby 7s Tournament took place on 14th–15th February in Alexandria, Egypt, featuring 16 competing teams. The UAE claimed gold with a victory over Morocco in the final, while Egypt secured bronze by defeating Libya.
Canterbury RFC’s own Fady Sheta proudly represented Egypt in the tournament, showcasing his talent on the international stage.
6 Nations is back at the Clubhouse
The competition kicks off again, and the clubhouse welcomes you all to come and watch every match, streamed to all screens. The bar will be open and look out on social media for any available food.
The fixtures are as following:
ROUND 3 – Saturday 22nd February
Wales v Ireland: Principality Stadium – KO 2.15pm
England v Scotland: Twickenham – KO 4.45pm
Sunday 23rd February
Italy v France: Stadio Olimpico – KO 3.00pm
Please let the clubhouse know if you are bringing a group in to watch the games – [email protected]
Pre-match Pilgrims home game curry
Pilgrims, currently sitting at the top of Counties 1 Kent – take on Dover March 1st at the MTG at 2.00pm. This promises to be a thrilling derby clash!
Pre-match dining? Treat your friends, family, or clients to one of the club’s famous Saucy Flo’s curries for just £15 per head. Delicious food, great company, and the perfect prelude to the game, served at 1.15pm! Book now at [email protected]
Don’t miss out, and join us!
Join us for an exclusive City Lunch with Jamie Roberts!
Mark your calendars for Thursday, 20th March, as Canterbury RFC hosts an exclusive City Lunch with special guest Jamie Roberts—former Wales, British & Irish Lions, and Harlequins centre.
This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a great afternoon of rugby insights, delicious food, and top-class company. Tables for 8-12 guests are available at £65 per person, but spaces are limited and always sell out quickly!
To secure your place, book now by contacting [email protected]. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a memorable event!
Save the date!
A Golf Day to be held at Canterbury Golf Club on Thursday, 1st May. Further details will be announced soon – stay tuned!
Canterbury RFC May Ball – A night to remember!
Mark your calendars for Friday, 23rd May 2025, as Canterbury RFC hosts its much-anticipated May Ball – an evening of elegance, entertainment, and celebration!
Guests will enjoy a three-course dinner, followed by a night of dancing, games, and live music from FNKHAUS, delivering dancefloor fillers, club classics, and party anthems. The evening will also feature an auction, dodgems, a 360° photobooth, and more to keep the party atmosphere alive.
Date: Friday, 23rd May 2025
Dress Code: Black Tie
Dinner: 7:30pm (arrival from 6:30pm)
Carriages: 1:00am
Tickets: £80 per person
Don’t miss out on this fantastic event—book your place now! Contact Kirsty at [email protected] to secure your tickets.
Preston Summerfest – Exclusive group ticket offer for Rugby Club members!
Club members are invited to Preston Summerfest, a fantastic family-friendly music festival taking place over the August bank holiday weekend in the village of Preston, near Canterbury.
This year’s lineup includes an incredible mix of live bands and DJs, with performances from Toploader (Dancing in the Moonlight, Achilles Heel), The Petebox (from The Voice), Hullaballo, Shiva, The Red Hot Tribute Peppers, Hurly Burly, and Certified Madness. An acoustic stage and DJ area will also feature well-known names such as Graham Gold, Pique, Miles Gorfy, and Greg Brookman.
Beyond the music, festivalgoers can enjoy great value food and drink, fun activities for children, and a vibrant community atmosphere throughout the weekend.
Exclusive Group Ticket Offer!
A special discount is available for sports clubs and groups:
Weekend tickets for groups of five or more – just £20 per person (+ booking fee).
(Cheaper than early bird and day ticket prices – and less than the cost of a single gig for some of these artists!)
Ticket Prices:
Under 12s – Free
Teenagers (12-17) – £10 (+ booking fee)
Those attending should ensure they purchase parking or camping tickets if required.
All festival profits support good causes, including Demelza and Pilgrims Hospices. It promises to be an unforgettable weekend of live music, great vibes, and community spirit.
Full lineup and event details can be found at https://www.PrestonSummerfest.com
Get Tickets Now!