Author: Denys Andrianjafy

Scores roundup

Zingari 19 – 48 Whitstable 2nds: It was always going to be a tough game, with the last meeting between these two sides narrowly going Whitstable’s way. The Zingari were eager for another shot at them, but with the league title on the line, Whitstable fielded a very strong 2^nd XV team – a sign of the gruelling 80 minutes that lay ahead for the Black & Amber.

Despite suffering three injuries and using up the replacements bench, Zingari held their own in the first half, going into the break trailing by just seven points at 19-12. However, disaster struck early in the second half when Mark Stone suffered a broken tibia, forcing him to be stretchered off. With all the injuries, Zingari were forced to reshuffle their lineup, moving players out of position to fill the gaps.

Meanwhile, Whitstable introduced four fresh substitutes, using their extra legs to take control of the game. Despite their mounting challenges, Zingari refused to back down, pressing as much as they could until the final whistle. Whitstable may have secured the win, but Zingari left the pitch with their pride intact, showing true resilience in the face of adversity.

Colts Dragons 55 – 28 Sevenoaks

Kent U20 28 – 22 Hertfordshire: Kent U20s kicked off their Jason Leonard U20s campaign with a battling 28-22 victory over Hertfordshire at Blackheath RFC on Sunday, 30th March. The squad featured six Canterbury RFC players: Owain Collins, Aidan Demery, Max McCormack, Isaac Divine, Brett Smith, and Bartholomew Johnson.

Kent took an early lead with a try after just five minutes, but Hertfordshire hit back before Aidan Demery powered over from a driving maul to restore Kent’s advantage. A well-worked backline move extended Kent’s lead before half-time, with Bart Johnson providing the assist for a try that made it 15-5 at the break.

The second half saw both sides exchanging penalties and tries, with Demery securing his second of the day from another lineout drive. Canterbury’s Brett Smith also got on the scoresheet, finishing off a break from Owain Collins, who later added a penalty to extend Kent’s lead. Despite a late Hertfordshire fightback, Kent held on to secure the win.

Kent’s next pool game is against Hampshire at Havant on Sunday, 11th May.

Canterbury RFC players on the scoresheet:

Aidan Demery – 2 tries
Brett Smith – 1 try
Owain Collins – 1 penalty

A strong start for Kent – best of luck for the next match!

Next fixtures

Saturday 5^th April
Oxford Harlequins v 1st XV Away – KO 3.00pm
Pilgrims v Crowborough Home – KO 3.00pm
Medway v Canons Away – KO 2.15pm
Deacons v Deal 2nds Home– KO 3.00pm
Zingari v Faversham 2nds Home – Cancelled

Pilgrims Set for Season Finale and Promotion Celebration

This Saturday, Pilgrims welcome Crowborough to the Marine Travel Ground for their final game of the Counties 1 season – a match that marks the end of a truly remarkable campaign.

Having secured promotion to Regional 2 South East (Level 6) for 2025/26, the Pilgrims have achieved a milestone few clubs can boast. In fact, Canterbury Rugby Club will be one of only 5 clubs in the RFU structure to have two teams in the top 284 – a testament to the strength and depth of the squad.

Join the Celebrations!

Make it a Super Saturday and celebrate with the team:

• Start with a Curry Lunch from Saucy Flo’s at 1.45pm (£15 per head).
• Book directly with Ted at saucyflos@gmail.com.
• Kick-off at 3.00pm – enjoy the game, have a few beers, and cheer on the Pilgrims as they cap off their incredible season.

Stay for the Final Whistle – and await news from Medway, where the Canons are hoping to secure the Counties 4 title and achieve promotion to Counties 3. If they succeed, it will be another historic moment, further cementing Canterbury’s unique position within the RFU league structure.

Incoming Club Chair John Halliday looks forward to welcoming you all for what promises to be a memorable day at the club. Don’t miss it!

Sunday 6^th April

Canterbury Women v Horsham Women Home – KO 2.30pm

Mini & Youth

Mixed U6’s Training – Grids
Mixed U7’s v Folkestone – Away
Mixed U8’s Training – Grids
Mixed U9’s v Folkestone – Away
Mixed U10’s v Folkestone – Away
Mixed U11’s v Folkestone – Away
Boys U12’s v Cranbrook – Away
Boys U13’s Training – Simon Langton 4G 10.00am
Boys U14’s v Cranbrook – Home KO 10.30 MAIN PITCH
Boys U15’s v Thanet – Away
Boys U16’s Training – Top Orchard 10.00am to 11.30am
Colts on tour

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 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 kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk to secure your tickets.

Parking at the MTG

We are grateful to the MS Centre next door for allowing us to use their car park to help ease parking congestion. However, please be aware that on Sundays between 8:00 am and 11:00 am, their spaces will not be available for rugby club use. It is important that we respect this arrangement, as continued misuse could result in the loss of our parking privileges.

Additionally, we have noticed that some vehicles have been parked in the disabled bays at the club without displaying a Blue Badge. These spaces are reserved for disabled club users to provide them with the easiest access to our facilities. If a Blue Badge is not visible, we will request that the vehicle be moved.

To assist with parking awareness, any vehicles incorrectly parked in restricted areas will be displayed on the clubhouse screen. Please check before leaving your car to avoid any inconvenience.

Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring that parking remains fair and accessible for all.

We wish you all the best of rugby!

What a week it has been at the club! Three senior teams took to the field on Saturday, and all three returned victorious. The 1st XV still have work to do to retain their current 4th place position, but their confidence is high after two hard-fought wins.

The Pilgrims have done it again! This time, they are not sharing the top spot but have claimed it outright, securing promotion to Regional 2 South East.

The Canons’ game was cancelled, but just a week earlier, they cemented their place at the top of the table and secured promotion to Counties 3 Kent.

Deacons travelled to Ashford Barbarians with revenge in mind, still stinging from their previous defeat. This time, the story was different, as Zingari dominated the game and secured a well-deserved win.

City Lunch at the MTG

Last Thursday, we welcomed 190 guests to the MTG for our City Lunch. It was a fantastic event filled with great food, excellent company, and an inspiring talk from our special guest speaker, Jamie Roberts—former Wales, British & Irish Lions, and Harlequins centre.

Thank you to everyone who attended. We look forward to seeing you at our next City Lunch event!

CRFC hosts inaugural Kent Girls’ 7s Tournament in true #OneClub Spirit

On Saturday, we hosted our first Kent Girls’ 7s Tournament at the MTG. A total of 27 teams competed at U12 and U14 levels, with 366 young players taking part. 7 Wells were the overall cup winners, while Beccs Valley claimed the U14 cup.

Each player received a bag and Jazz Apples, generously donated by our partners at World Wide Fruit. The day was a huge success, and congratulations must go to Becky McCracken and her team for organising such a fantastic event. It truly embodied our #OneClub spirit, with players from the Women’s, Men’s, and Colts teams stepping up to referee and oversee proceedings. Many volunteers from across the club also played a vital role in ensuring the day ran smoothly.

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to another brilliant week at Canterbury Rugby Club!

Scores roundup

1^st XV 31 – 28 Henley Hawks: Canterbury have rediscovered their winning touch, digging deep to secure another tight victory after a recent dip in form. Coming from behind in the second half, the City side held firm under intense late pressure from Henley Hawks to claim a maximum five-point return, keeping them in fourth place in National 2 East.

They started brightly, dominating the early exchanges and racing into a two-try lead by the 18th minute. Eoin O’Donoghue’s break set up Frank Morgan for the opening score, following some slick handling from the backs. Frank Reynolds, making his 100th appearance, converted before O’Donoghue powered over from a driving maul to extend the lead.

At that stage, it looked like Canterbury might run away with it, but Henley refused to back down. A penalty from Max Titchener got them on the scoreboard before centre George Wood’s dazzling footwork cut the deficit. A classic catch-and-drive try from Rory Mason, converted by Titchener, put Hawks ahead briefly before Canterbury responded in kind, with O’Donoghue grabbing his second.

As the first half drew to a close, another Titchener penalty nudged Henley ahead, and they extended their lead soon after the restart, as Will Benning crossed to create an eight-point gap—a worrying sign given Canterbury’s recent second-half struggles.

But this time, they refused to falter. Reynolds’ pinpoint kick behind the defence was chased down by Morgan for his second try, closing the gap. They then took control with a powerful crash-ball finish from Harry Sloan, securing a vital bonus point.

Despite creating further opportunities, Canterbury couldn’t add to their tally, leaving the door slightly open for Henley. Titchener’s third penalty cut the lead to just three points, setting up a tense finish. But Canterbury’s defence held firm, restricting the Hawks to just a single losing bonus point—arguably less than they deserved.

A hard-fought five-point victory keeps Canterbury’s playoff hopes alive as they look to build on their return to winning ways.

Heathfield 7 – 27 Pilgrims: The Pilgrims travelled to Heathfield & Waldron knowing victory would secure them the league title—and they delivered in style with a dominant 27-7 win.

Despite early nerves, the Pilgrims quickly took control, with Owain Collins opening the scoring after strong forward play. Gus Lister added a second try, maintaining his spot as the league’s top try-scorer, and Collins’ accurate boot stretched the lead to 17-0 by half-time.

Heathfield looked to fight back after the break, but Pilgrims continued their dominance. Adrian Geddes powered over for another try, expertly converted by Collins, before a penalty pushed the lead to 27-0. A late Heathfield score was a mere consolation, as Pilgrims’ defence, led by captain Al Evans, held firm.

The victory sealed their third consecutive league title and confirmed their promotion to Level 6 next season—a fitting reward for an outstanding campaign.

Canons HWO Faversham: Faversham withdrew from the fixture, forfeiting the game.

Ashford Barbarians 15 – 22 Deacons: After over a month without a fixture, the Deacons travelled to face the league leaders, determined to avenge their January defeat.

The league leaders, Barbarians, having lost only twice all season, boasted a deep squad, home support, and confidence. Meanwhile, Deacons fielded a young, energetic team accustomed to the relentless pace of Colts rugby, supported by experienced regulars. The squad even featured a father-son duo and two brothers.

The opening half was a fierce battle, with Deacons’ defence proving impenetrable. Despite attacking uphill, they held firm for 35 minutes until Ashford broke the deadlock with a controversial try. However, Deacons struck back before the break, levelling the score at 5-5.

With fresh legs from the bench and the advantage of playing downhill in the second half, Deacons ramped up the pressure. Barbarians, rattled by the defensive resilience, opted for penalty kicks rather than challenging the defensive line.

At 8-5, Craig Fuller powered through for two stunning tries, with Josh Lamb adding the conversions to push Deacons ahead 8-22. Barbarians fought back with a late score, but it wasn’t enough. The final whistle blew at 15-22, handing them only their third defeat of the season and denying them a promotion-clinching win.

An incredible team effort, but Player of the Match went to Ruben Kalonji, who, in his first senior game at No. 8, caused havoc for the opposition.

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

Next fixtures

Saturday 29^th March
Zingari v Whitstable 2nds

Sunday 30^th March
Minis

Mixed U6’s Grids – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U7’s Grids – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U8’s Bottom Orchard – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U9’s Simon Langton 4G – 9.00am to 10.30am
Mixed U10’s Training Pitch – 9.00am to 10.30am
Mixed U11’s Simon Langton 4G – 9.00am to 10.30am

U7s, U8’s, U9’s, U10’s will be hosting Thanet. Same pitches same times

Youth

Boys U12’s v TJ’s Top Orchard – KO 10.30am
Boys U13’s training, Simon Langton 4G – 10.30am
Boys U14’s v TJ’s, Bottom Orchard from 10.30am
Boys U15’s v Thanet, Langton Grass pitch – KO 10.00am
Boys U16’s no training
Colts Tigers v OE’s Main Pitch – KO Midday
Colts Dragons v Sevenoaks Top Pitch – KO Midday

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 Varsity: The ultimate rugby showdown!

It’s that time of year again! Canterbury Christ Church University and University of Kent go head-to-head in their annual Varsity Rugby Battle. A fantastic evening of sport awaits, with thrilling men’s and women’s rugby matches, plus food and bars to keep you refreshed as you cheer on your team.

Date: Friday 28 March 2025
Venue: Canterbury Rugby Club
Women’s 1st XV: KO 6.00pm
Men’s 1st XV: KO 8.00pm

Ticket-only entry for all (including CRFC members). Strictly no parking at the Marine Travel Ground.

For more details and to book your tickets, head over to the Varsity website.

We can’t wait to see you there and share in the excitement!

Celebrate the Pilgrims with a Saucy Flo’s curry meal!

Join us for a special pre-match dining experience and enjoy one of the club’s famous Saucy Flo’s curries for just £15 per head. Treat your friends, family, or clients to delicious food, great company, and the perfect build-up to the game. Served at 1:15 PM, it’s an occasion not to be missed! Book now at saucyflos@gmail.com.

This is the perfect way to celebrate the Pilgrims’ league victory and congratulate the team on their incredible season. It has been a fantastic two years under coach Jon ‘Fozzy’ Foster, and we’d love for you to be part of their final game!

3rd April – Pilgrims vs Crowborough (KO TBC)

Be there to show your support!

Canterbury RFC Golf Day – Thursday 1st May 2025

Join us for a fantastic day of golf at Canterbury Golf Club on Thursday 1st May 2025. This premier event promises great competition, top-class hospitality, and some unforgettable moments.

What’s Included:

• Welcome breakfast & registration (from 8.00am)
• Shotgun start at 10.00am with live on-course scoring
• Team & individual prizes up for grabs
• A CRFC backpack, sleeve of balls, and goody bag for every player
• A three-course lunch at 3:30pm
• Special guest comedian Adger Brown
• An iconic Spitfire flypast before play begins (weather permitting)
• BONUS: Each four-ball team receives a Canterbury Golf Club voucher for a future round

Entry for a 4-ball team: £1000

All Proceeds will go to Canterbury Rugby Academy.

A perfect day for golfers of all levels—don’t miss out!

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

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 kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk to secure your tickets.

Parking at the MTG

We are grateful to the MS Centre next door for allowing us to use their car park to help ease parking congestion. However, please be aware that on Sundays between 8:00 am and 11:00 am, their spaces will not be available for rugby club use. It is important that we respect this arrangement, as continued misuse could result in the loss of our parking privileges.

Additionally, we have noticed that some vehicles have been parked in the disabled bays at the club without displaying a Blue Badge. These spaces are reserved for disabled club users to provide them with the easiest access to our facilities. If a Blue Badge is not visible, we will request that the vehicle be moved.

To assist with parking awareness, any vehicles incorrectly parked in restricted areas will be displayed on the clubhouse screen. Please check before leaving your car to avoid any inconvenience.

Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring that parking remains fair and accessible for all.

We wish you all the best of rugby!

Scores roundup

Bury St Edmunds 38 – 40 1^st XV:  After a string of narrow losses, Canterbury finally turned the tide, surviving a second-half onslaught to complete a league double over Bury St Edmunds.

At half-time, with a commanding 31-7 lead, it looked like a comfortable win was on the cards. The first 40 minutes saw some of Canterbury’s best rugby this season, with pace, precision, and flair delivering four tries and a bonus point.

But after the break, the game flipped on its head. Bury came out firing, scoring five second-half tries as Canterbury struggled to gain possession. Under relentless pressure, it was the unwavering accuracy of Frank Reynolds’ boot—slotting three crucial penalties—that ultimately sealed the win.

Reynolds opened the scoring before Canterbury ran riot. Harry Sloan, Frank Morgan, Harvey Furneaux, and Jessie De Vries all crossed the whitewash, with Reynolds adding the extras. Bury’s only first-half response came via James Harrison, hinting at what was to come.

After the restart, Bury launched their fightback, scoring through Finn McCartney (twice), Alex Earnshaw, George Grigg-Pettit, and George Loose. But just as momentum swung, Reynolds held his nerve, slotting a monster kick from halfway and another five minutes from time to keep Bury at bay.

A thrilling contest, a gritty win, and a massive result for Canterbury!

Zingari 29 – 48 Bredase RC: It was end-to-end action from start to finish in a fiercely competitive and entertaining match.

The opposition had two standout first-team backs—a full-back and a winger—who were lightning-fast and dangerous with ball in hand.

We did well to contain them for most of the game, but in the final 20 minutes, they found their breakthrough. A sharp interception saw them race the length of the pitch, and moments later, their blistering winger carved an unstoppable outside arc to add another score.

A highly competitive encounter and a brilliant game to be part of!

Bury St Edmunds Colts 24 – 34 Canterbury Colts1st XV: The Canterbury Colts set off bright and early to travel to our friends at Bury St Edmunds for a 1st XV curtain-raiser match.

A hard pitch and sunny weather set the stage for an expansive game, with Canterbury edging the first half 12-17 thanks to tries from Andy T, Ed T, and Harry L.

The second half began with 10 minutes of BSE dominance, allowing them to take the lead with two quick scores: 24-17. A break in play gave co-captains Andy T and Paddy P the chance to regroup and strategise for the final quarter. Their leadership paid off as Ed T crossed for his second try, levelling the score at 24-24.

With just five minutes remaining, Andy T produced a captain’s surge, breaking 20 metres to put Canterbury back in front at 24-29.

Some outstanding goal-line defence in the closing moments forced BSE back to Canterbury’s 22-metre line, where Riley S intercepted a pass on the left wing and sprinted 50 metres before being stopped by the covering full-back. Quick thinking saw him produce a falling offload to Harry L, who capped off a Player of the Match performance by scoring his second try, sealing a 24-34 victory.

Tunbridge Wells Colts 2^nd XV v Canterbury Colts 2^nd XV: Canterbury Colts 2nd XV signed off their 2024/2025 Kent League campaign in emphatic fashion, securing a resounding 57-35 victory away at Tunbridge Wells. In a match filled with attacking flair and dominant forward play, the City side dictated the pace from the outset, ensuring their final league fixture was one to remember.

From the first whistle, Canterbury’s pack set the tone, controlling the tight exchanges with powerful scrummaging and relentless work at the breakdown. This dominance up front created the perfect platform for the Colts’ free-flowing backs to showcase their attacking prowess. With quick ball and slick handling, Canterbury’s backline sliced through the Tunbridge defence time and time again, running in nine well-worked tries.

Despite Tunbridge Wells showing resilience and managing to cross the whitewash five times, Canterbury’s attacking firepower proved too much to handle. The City side’s clinical finishing and ability to turn pressure into points ensured they always stayed in control of the scoreboard.

This high-scoring, entertaining encounter was a fitting end to Canterbury Colts 2nd XV’s league campaign, capping off a season of hard work, commitment, and impressive performances. The squad now looks ahead to the next challenge, full of confidence and momentum. Well done, Colts!

Boys U13 Spitfires 35 – 35 Old Dunstonians: Old Dunstonians came out firing, scoring twice in the first 10 minutes and putting Canterbury under early pressure. But that early setback only ignited the Spitfires. The game became a thrilling end-to-end contest, with Canterbury battling back to level the scores by half-time with some outstanding tries.

The second half was a rollercoaster, with the lead changing hands four times. With two minutes to go, Canterbury thought they had sealed it with a late score, only for OD’s to equalise in the final moments, ending a high-intensity clash 35-35.

The draw confirmed the Canterbury Spitfires as Kent U13 League champions, adding to their earlier success in the South England Regional Tournament. An incredible achievement for an outstanding squad, who have remained unbeaten all season through hard work and determination.

Next stop: Portugal! The Spitfires will now represent Canterbury on the international stage, competing in the U13 International Club Tournament in Lisbon next month. Vamos, Spitfires!

Boys U13 Hurricanes 55 – 5 Sevenoaks: In a commanding display of power and precision, Canterbury Hurricanes swept aside Sevenoaks Spartans to claim the Group 4 league title. From start to finish, the Hurricanes were in control, with a relentless attack and rock-solid defence leaving the Spartans struggling to keep up.

The match exploded into action, as Canterbury capitalised on early opportunities, using their wingers’ blistering pace and clinical finishing to race into the lead. The forward pack dominated the physical battles, providing clean ball for the backs and dictating the tempo. Their scrum work was flawless, allowing the Hurricanes to control possession and territory.

Canterbury’s superior rucking kept them on the front foot, securing quick ball and maintaining momentum. Combined with sharp passing and smart decision-making, their fluid attacking play kept Sevenoaks on the back foot, unable to find a foothold in the game.

In the end, the Hurricanes proved unstoppable, using speed, strength, and skill to storm to the league title in emphatic fashion. Champions of Group 4 – and fully deserved!

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

Next fixtures

Saturday 22^nd March
1stXV v Henley – Home KO 3.00pm
Pilgrims v Heathfield – Away KO 3.00pm
Canons v Faversham – Home KO 3.00pm
Deacons v Ashford B – Away KO 3.00pm

Sunday 23^rd March
Mini & Youth

Girls U12’s & U14’s Kent 7’s Tournament – Marie Travel Ground – 9.30am to 4.30pm
Mixed U6’s Simon Langton 4G – 9.00am to 10.00am
Boys U12’s Amber v Deal and Betteshanger – Home KO 10.30am
Boys U12’s Black v Folkestone Langton 4G – Home KO 10.30

Please check the Mini & Youth webpages for updates

Tickets Available: Saracens v Harlequins – Saturday, 22nd March

A set of tickets for Saracens v Harlequins at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (kick-off 3:00 pm) are available after a change of plans. Bought for £47, will take £40each.

If interested, contact Helen Figgis on 07775 426551.

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

Exciting Events from Our Partners, UNight Canterbury

Get ready for two fantastic events featuring an incredible effects show with dancers, performers, cold pyro, bubbles, festival-sized confetti blasts, multi-coloured lasers and lighting, parachute games, giant balloons, a licensed bar, and face painting!

Over 30s Day Party – Saturday, 29th March

The ultimate daytime clubbing experience is coming to Canterbury! The Over 30s Day Party returns to Tokyo Tea Rooms, bringing all the best tunes from the 90s and 00s – with the promise that everyone will be in bed before dark. Time to show the younger crowd how it’s really done!

Book now: https://fatso.ma/1vky

Raver Tots – The Ultimate Indoor Family Dance Party

Raver Tots is coming to Canterbury, offering an unforgettable dance experience for all ages, featuring the best in house, garage, and drum and bass.

Special guest: Sweet Female Attitude (I’ll Bring You Flowers – live performance)

Last chance for tickets – almost sold out!

Book now: https://www.ravertots.co.uk/event/raver-tots-canterbury-2/

Canterbury RFC Golf Day – Thursday 1st May 2025

Join us for a fantastic day of golf at Canterbury Golf Club on Thursday 1st May 2025. This premier event promises great competition, top-class hospitality, and some unforgettable moments.

What’s Included:

• Welcome breakfast & registration (from 8.00am)
• Shotgun start at 10.00am with live on-course scoring
• Team & individual prizes up for grabs
• A CRFC backpack, sleeve of balls, and goody bag for every player
• A three-course lunch at 3:30pm
• Special guest comedian Adger Brown
• An iconic Spitfire flypast before play begins (weather permitting)
• BONUS: Each four-ball team receives a Canterbury Golf Club voucher for a future round

Entry for a 4-ball team: £1000

All Proceeds will go to Canterbury Rugby Academy.

A perfect day for golfers of all levels—don’t miss out!

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

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 kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk to secure your tickets.

Parking at the MTG

We are grateful to the MS Centre next door for allowing us to use their car park to help ease parking congestion. However, please be aware that on Sundays between 8:00 am and 11:00 am, their spaces will not be available for rugby club use. It is important that we respect this arrangement, as continued misuse could result in the loss of our parking privileges.

Additionally, we have noticed that some vehicles have been parked in the disabled bays at the club without displaying a Blue Badge. These spaces are reserved for disabled club users to provide them with the easiest access to our facilities. If a Blue Badge is not visible, we will request that the vehicle be moved.

To assist with parking awareness, any vehicles incorrectly parked in restricted areas will be displayed on the clubhouse screen. Please check before leaving your car to avoid any inconvenience.

Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring that parking remains fair and accessible for all.

We wish you all the best of rugby!

Scores roundup

1st XV v Old Albanian: Canterbury’s tough run continued as they suffered a fourth consecutive defeat, letting an 18-point first-half lead slip against Old Albanians. Despite a dominant opening 40 minutes, missed chances and errors proved costly, allowing the visitors to snatch victory in the final moments.

Old Williamsonians v Canons: The Canons travelled to Old Williamsonians determined to avenge their home defeat. Leading at half-time, they looked poised for redemption, but missed opportunities saw the hosts fight back, ultimately edging a 22-14 win.

Boys U15s v Sidcup: Canterbury U15s capped off a remarkable unbeaten season in style, securing the Kent League title with a dominant 43-19 victory over Sidcup. A year on from finishing second to the same opponents, the squad proved their growth and resilience, defending the MTG fortress with confidence and control.

Canterbury Colts: It was a superb weekend for Canterbury Colts, with both the 1st XV and 2nd XV claiming impressive wins over strong Tonbridge Juddians sides. The squads demonstrated outstanding organisation and decision-making, with the 1st XV shutting out TJ’s 5-49, while the 2nd XV came out on top in a thrilling 34-43 battle.

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

Next fixtures

Saturday 15^th March

Canterbury Sin Binners v Breda RC – Home KO 12.30pm
1^st XV v Bury St Edmunds – Away KO 3.00pm

A Super Saturday of rugby at the MTG!

This Saturday promises an international flavour at the Marine Travel Ground as we welcome Dutch side Bredase RC, who take on the Sin Binners—a squad made up of Canons, Deacons, and Zingari players. It’s set to be a fantastic afternoon of rugby, so come down, cheer on the teams, and enjoy the action!

After the on-field battle, head into the clubhouse for the final round of the Six Nations. The tournament is on a knife-edge, with multiple teams still in the title race:

• France will be crowned champions if they secure a bonus-point win over Scotland.
• England must beat Wales with a bonus point while hoping France slip up.
• Ireland need a bonus-point victory over Italy, plus favourable results elsewhere.
• Scotland have an outside chance, but only if they defeat France by a big margin and other results go their way.

Got all that? No worries—what really matters is an electric atmosphere, great company, and top-quality rugby! So, apart from being at the stadiums themselves, where better to enjoy the drama than cheering with the CRFC rugby family, and our visitors from the Netherlands at the clubhouse?

The bar is open from 11.00am and food is available all day!

See you there!

Sunday 16^th March

Minis

9-10am:
Mixed U6’s Simon Langton 4G
Mixed U7’s Simon Langton 4G
Mixed U8’s Simon Langton 4G

9-10:30am:
Mixed U9 Bottom Orchard – training and hosting Lorenden School
Mixed U10’s v Sevenoaks  – Away
Mixed U11’s Top Orchard

Youth
Boys U12’s Amber v Old Alleynians – Away KO 10:15am
Boys U12’s Black Bottom Orchard – 10:30
Boys U13’s Spitfires v OD’s – Home KO 11.00am
Boys U13’s Hurricanes v Sevenoaks – Home KO 11.00am
Boys U14’s v TJ’s Simon Langton 4G – KO  10.00am
Boys U14’s v Aylesford Simon Langton 4G – KO 10.00am
Boys U15’s v Tunbridge Wells – Away KO 11.30am
Boys U16’s v Blackheath Top Pitch – KO 10.30am
Boys U16’s Dev v Aylesford Top Orchard – KO 10:30
Colts v Bury St Edmunds – Away KO 12.00pm
Colts v Tunbridge Wells – Away KO 11.30pm

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.

Introducing Milly – Taking on the English Channel for Three Great Causes

At Canterbury Rugby Club, we love to celebrate the achievements of our rugby family, and today, we’re shining a spotlight on Milly, sister of 1st XV player Harvey Furneaux, who is taking on an incredible challenge.

In August 2025, Milly will be swimming the English Channel, a 21-mile stretch of open water from Dover to Cap-Gris-Nez in France. Growing up just a stone’s throw from the Dover shore, this has been a lifelong goal, and she’s now putting in countless hours of training in both the cold open water and the pool to prepare.

But this challenge isn’t just about her—it requires a highly skilled boat crew to guide her safely across, just as they have done for hundreds of swimmers before her. To help with these costs and to raise funds for three incredible causes, Milly has set up a GoFundMe page.

Who Milly is Supporting:

Pilgrims Hospices – A cause close to Milly’s heart after her grandfather spent his final weeks in a hospice. These wonderful facilities provide incredible care and support to both patients and their families, making a difficult time as comfortable as possible.

Myeloma UK – Supporting research and treatment for myeloma, a type of bone marrow cancer, which has directly impacted Milly’s family. Myeloma UK is the only UK charity dedicated to funding research, improving treatments, and supporting those affected.

RNLI – The volunteer crews of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution work tirelessly 24/7 to save lives at sea. Their dedication and bravery have saved over 146,000 lives since 1824, and they continue to patrol our coasts, keeping people safe.

Milly’s challenge is a huge undertaking, and we’d love for the Canterbury rugby family to support her in any way possible. If you’d like to donate, visit: Milly’s Channel Swim 2025

Let’s get behind Milly and help her make a difference for these amazing causes!

Steak lovers, this one’s for you!

Tuesdays just got tastier at The Granville! From 5pm every Tuesday, it’s ‘Steak Tuesday’ – buy one steak main, get one free! That’s right—order your favourite steak, and they’ll throw in another completely free, served with triple-cooked chips and salad.

How’s that for a double protein feast?

Don’t miss out—book your table now https://thegranvillecanterbury.co.uk/

Pre-match Pilgrims home game curry

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 12.30pm! Book now at saucyflos@gmail.com

Next curry lunch available for April 5th v Crowborough

Don’t miss out and join us!

Canterbury RFC Golf Day – Thursday 1st May 2025

Join us for a fantastic day of golf at Canterbury Golf Club on Thursday 1st May 2025. This premier event promises great competition, top-class hospitality, and some unforgettable moments.

What’s Included:

• Welcome breakfast & registration (from 8.00am)
• Shotgun start at 10.00am with live on-course scoring
• Team & individual prizes up for grabs
• A CRFC backpack, sleeve of balls, and goody bag for every player
• A three-course lunch at 3:30pm
• Special guest comedian Adger Brown
• An iconic Spitfire flypast before play begins (weather permitting)
• BONUS: Each four-ball team receives a Canterbury Golf Club voucher for a future round

Entry for a 4-ball team: £1000

All Proceeds will go to Canterbury Rugby Academy.

A perfect day for golfers of all levels—don’t miss out!

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

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 kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk to secure your tickets.

Parking at the MTG

We are grateful to the MS Centre next door for allowing us to use their car park to help ease parking congestion. However, please be aware that on Sundays between 8:00 am and 11:00 am, their spaces will not be available for rugby club use. It is important that we respect this arrangement, as continued misuse could result in the loss of our parking privileges.

Additionally, we have noticed that some vehicles have been parked in the disabled bays at the club without displaying a Blue Badge. These spaces are reserved for disabled club users to provide them with the easiest access to our facilities. If a Blue Badge is not visible, we will request that the vehicle be moved.

To assist with parking awareness, any vehicles incorrectly parked in restricted areas will be displayed on the clubhouse screen. Please check before leaving your car to avoid any inconvenience.

Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring that parking remains fair and accessible for all.

We wish you all the best of rugby!

 

Scores roundup

Barnes 45 – 35 1^st XV: A stunning second-half comeback saw Canterbury salvage pride and a crucial losing bonus point against second-placed Barnes, despite a torrid first half. Trailing 40-0 at the break, the city side roared back with five unanswered tries, proving their resilience.

Barnes dominated the opening 40 minutes, punishing Canterbury’s errors and running in six tries, with Elliot Haydon and Ethan Sikorski among the scorers. However, a rousing half-time talk from Head Coach Matt Corker sparked a remarkable response. Eoin O’Donoghue crossed early in the second half before Olly Frostick, Presley Farrance, Jesse de Vries, and Aaron Cooper all added to the tally. Frank Reynolds converted all five second-half tries, securing a valuable bonus point.

Despite the defeat, Canterbury remain fourth in National 2 East and will take confidence from their spirited fightback as they prepare for the next challenge.

Pilgrims 43 – 19 Dover: Pilgrims maintained their grip on Counties 1 with a commanding 45-19 victory over Dover in a thrilling local derby. Playing up the slope in the first half, they wasted no time imposing their game, with Gus Lister racing away for the opener after a strong break from Guy Hilton. Harry Sloan and Isaac Divine followed with well-taken tries before Adrian Geddes secured the bonus point, giving Canterbury a 24-0 lead.

Dover responded with two late first-half tries, closing the gap to 24-14 at the break. They carried their momentum into the second half, adding another to narrow the deficit to five points. However, Pilgrims hit back hard, with returning centre Tom Halliday making an immediate impact before Lister completed a superb hat-trick. Sonny Trew-Neville put the finishing touch on a solid team performance, keeping Pilgrims top of the table with three games to go.

Next up, on the road to Heathfield & Waldron as Pilgrims continue their push for the title.

Cliffe Crusaders 22 – 27 Canons: The Canons moved a step closer to the Counties 4 Kent title with a hard-earned victory away at Cliffe Crusaders. Using their pace and agility to counter Cliffe’s physicality, the Canons took control early, with Liam Browne slotting two penalties before Jake Upward crossed for the first try, set up by Josh Lamb. Lamb then added a second just before half-time, giving Canterbury a 20-3 lead at the break.

Cliffe responded strongly in the second half with an early try, and tensions rose as the game turned scrappy. However, the Canons struck back, with Browne’s chip-and-chase setting up Upward for his second. Despite Cliffe adding two late tries, the Canons secured a well-deserved four points against tough opposition.

All focus now turns to this weekend’s top-of-the-table showdown against Old Williamsonians, where the Canons will be out for revenge and looking to take a huge step towards the title.

Zingari 33 – 14 Gillingham 2nds: The Zingari continued their winning streak with an explosive second-half performance, dismantling top-of-the-table Anchorians in emphatic fashion.

A cautious first half saw both sides struggle for control, with Patrick Collins opening the scoring for Canterbury before Anchorians hit back to level things at the break. However, whatever was said at half-time worked wonders, as the Zingari emerged fired up.

Early pressure saw Connor Langley cross under the posts, quickly followed by a Callium Townshend try to stretch the lead. Anchorians attempted a response but were shut down by relentless defence. The Canterbury forwards dominated the turnover battle, allowing the backs to carve open the opposition defence.

As pressure mounted, Ash Nwapa powered over for a brace of tries, both converted by Jacob Coffin, sealing an unassailable lead. Anchorians grabbed a late consolation, but the Zingari’s second-half dominance ensured a statement victory.

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

Next fixtures

Saturday 8^th March
1st XV v Old Albanian – Home KO 3.00pm
Pilgrims v Cranbrook – Home KO 3.00pm CANCELLED
Old Williamsonians v Canons – Away KO 2.30pm
Lordswood v Zingari – Away KO 2.30pm

Sunday 9^th March
Mini & Youth
Mixed U6’s, U7’s and U8’s Simon Langton 4G – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U12’s Amber v Beckenham – Away
Boys U12’s Black v Thanet Top Pitch – KO 10.30
Boys U13’s v Blackheath – Away
Boys U14’s v Sevenoaks – Away
Boys U15’s v Sidcup Main Pitch – KO 11.00am
Boys U16’s Simon Langton 4G – 10.00am to11.am
Boys U16’s Development v Dover – KO 11.00am
Colts v TJ’s  – Away

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

U15s title decider – Support needed!

Canterbury U15s are currently top of the table, and this weekend’s clash against Sidcup is a Kent League title decider! Let’s get as many supporters as possible around the main pitch to cheer them on and help them bring home the victory. Your support could make all the difference!

Please check the Mini & Youth webpages for updates

Parking at the MTG

We are grateful to the MS Centre next door for allowing us to use their car park to help ease parking congestion. However, please be aware that on Sundays between 8:00 am and 11:00 am, their spaces will not be available for rugby club use. It is important that we respect this arrangement, as continued misuse could result in the loss of our parking privileges.

Additionally, we have noticed that some vehicles have been parked in the disabled bays at the club without displaying a Blue Badge. These spaces are reserved for disabled club users to provide them with the easiest access to our facilities. If a Blue Badge is not visible, we will request that the vehicle be moved.

To assist with parking awareness, any vehicles incorrectly parked in restricted areas will be displayed on the clubhouse screen. Please check before leaving your car to avoid any inconvenience.

Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring that parking remains fair and accessible for all.

Pre-match Pilgrims home game curry

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 12.30pm! Book now at saucyflos@gmail.com

Next curry lunch available for April 5th v Crowborough

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 kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a memorable event!

Canterbury RFC Golf Day – Thursday 1st May 2025

Join us for a fantastic day of golf at Canterbury Golf Club on Thursday 1st May 2025. This premier event promises great competition, top-class hospitality, and some unforgettable moments.

What’s Included:

• Welcome breakfast & registration (from 8.00am)
• Shotgun start at 10.00am with live on-course scoring
• Team & individual prizes up for grabs
• A CRFC backpack, sleeve of balls, and goody bag for every player
• A three-course lunch at 3:30pm
• Special guest comedian Adger Brown
• An iconic Spitfire flypast before play begins (weather permitting)
• BONUS: Each four-ball team receives a Canterbury Golf Club voucher for a future round

Entry for a 4-ball team: £1000

All Proceeds will go to Canterbury Rugby Academy.

A perfect day for golfers of all levels—don’t miss out!

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

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 kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk 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!

We wish you all the best of rugby!