Author: Denys Andrianjafy

Match Report – Canterbury Ladies v Guernsey

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

CANTERBURY LADIES 49 GUERNSEY LADIES 20

A final home fixture of the season saw a strong victory for Canterbury’s ladies, confirming themselves as champions.

Upon kick off some untidy catch-attempts from Guernsey saw Canterbury gain the upper hand with an early turnover penalty which was taken as a tap-and-go, only to be shortly turned back over by Guernsey who also opted to tap the ball, a commonly chosen route throughout the game.

Some well executed offloading, paired with a huge line-break by Mimi Montgomery which left Guernsey disorganised landed the ball in the hands of Jess Pettafor, who needed only to sidestep a player to score the first try of the game in the fifth minute. With her attempt at conversion being charged down by a Guernsey player.

Shortly after kicking back off, Mimi Montgomery once again made herself the centre of attention with a swift interception and 30 metre dash before being reached by the opposition, however the defence had already been opened for Canterbury to run the ball almost to the Guernsey 22 – only to be stopped by a well timed tackle into touch.

All was relatively quiet from then, until the 13th minute when Montgomery once more made a dash through the defensive line from 15 metres out to score the second try of the match.

A well placed box kick by Charlotte Andrews bounced almost perfectly in Canterbury’s favour, with Guernsey misplaced to collect it out the sky, and chasing Ella Jenkins was quick to strike a tackle, and Rachael Austerberry’s keen eyes made sure it played out perfectly by spotting the ball and scooping it up as it came loose from the ruck: enabling yet another pitch-long run for the team as they offloaded from player to player, however a knock-on scuppered their hopes of furthering their lead.

A high tackle in the 20th minute on Alice Hayward saw the referee show a red card, leaving Guernsey with only 14 players with an hour of play remaining.

Canterbury seized upon this opportunity by kicking to touch, playing a classic catch-and-drive which took advantage of the lacking backline and allowed Anneka Willis to dive for the line – giving Canterbury a lead of three tries to nought.

Guernsey were not to be taken so easily, however, finding a straight shot at the uprights after a penalty was given in their favour, ensuring they would not head home empty handed.

A quick retaliation from Canterbury on the back of a scrum was once again spearheaded by Mimi Montgomery being unstoppable in her pace, scoring the fourth try for Canterbury, her second.

A clean cross-field kick by Olivia Haywood paired with some good footballing by Jess Pettafor allowed the fullback to score her second try of the match, making the score 25 – 3 where it would remain until half time, despite the best efforts of both sides to improve their position further.

The second half became quite different, Guernsey took the time to assess what their weaknesses were, as well as figuring out where Canterbury were struggling, and despite having a player deficit came back stronger.

The assessment showed through, with Canterbury being held in their 22 for ten minutes, until a penalty went Canterbury’s way and despite the kick not finding touch, Montgomery continued their form chasing after the ball as quick as can be and ensuring Guernsey could make only a few metres back.

Willis’ boot became something of a staple in the second half, constantly kicking just right – earning Canterbury a lineout just within the opposing half – and once again Montgomery got the ball and was off, running 40 metres to score herself a third try, and being dutifully converted by Anneka Willis.

A try and conversion for Guernsey demonstrated a determination to keep fighting, and a strength to compete despite the early red.

The game continued to be a smooth blend of fast backs and physical forwards, with a series of pick-and-go’s on the Guernsey line to eventually open a gap for Elizabeth Spruin to dart through and score a try just off centre from the posts.

The visiting side took the initiative after resuming play, kicking the ball along until a penalty in front of the try line was taken with a quick tap to the surprise of Canterbury, scoring a second try and converting with 14 minutes remaining to play.

Quick hands after a scrum had the ball reach Olivia Haywood who capitalised on the weakened back line of Guernsey, running across the field to score herself a try,

Guernsey’s last score came with six minutes remaining, again scoring from a short burst through the line to touch the ball down immediately afterwards.

The final scoring moment of the game came when Canterbury, unwilling to rest on their laurels, reused the power of Mimi Montgomery to score a ninth try for the side, fourth for Montgomery.

Tries: Jess Pettafor (2), Mimi Montgomery (4), Anneka Willis (1), Elizabeth Spruin (1), Olivia Haywood (1).

Conversions: Anneka Willis (2)

Canterbury: D. Charles, I. Philpott, T. Weir, A. Willis, A. Crabb, L. Windsor, L. Relf, M. Montgomery, C. Andrews ©, R. Austerberry, A. Hayward, O. Haywood, T. Chilton, E. Jenkins, J. Pettafor. Replacements: B. Gayson, C. Bernthal, M. West, C. Oakley, E. Spruin

Match photographs may be subject to copyright – Jack Lloyd

Canterbury Ladies v Guernsey Ladies [2022-04-17]

Match Report – Canterbury 1st XV v Esher RFC

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

CANTERBURY 11 ESHER 33

by David Haigh

High flying Esher were given a thorough Easter test before keeping their National 2 South title hopes on course with two late tries.

The scoreline probably flattered the visitors but here was a side that turned its chances into points while Canterbury, despite rattling the league leaders with their commitmmt and physicality, failed to make the most of theirs.

The city side’s first half effort was among the best of the season as they handled Esher’s kicking game with ease, created presure with some no nonsense rugby and took a six point lead through two Kyan Braithwaite penalty goals.

Adding tries to those points, however, eluded them and despite all the good work they found themselves behind at half time.

Esher scored twice in the final three minutes with Myles Rawstron-Rudd intercepting in Canterbury’s 22 metre area and Jack Lavin finding a gap after Danny Herriot had been yellow carded for pulling down a maul.

Sam Morley added the first of his four conversions.

A promising start to the second half again came to nothing for Canterbury but Esher approached their slightly uneasy situation with more determined forward power.

That earned a 56th minute try for prop Theo Skoumbourdis but they could make no further impression and as the game reached the last quarter it was Canterbury who found a way to the line.

A driving maul and a cut out pass sent Tristan King in at the corner to test Esher’s nerves.

They settled them but left it late with the bonus point try coming from Charlie Crawley in the 73rd minute from a powerful driving maul.

It was also enough to secure the win and in the last act of the game an individual breakaway score came from Phil Cokanasinga, a luxury replacement who usually plies his trade with Premiership London Irish.

Canterbury: A.Moss, G.Hilton, S.Sterling, K.Braithwaite, F.Morgan, F.Reynolds, B.Cooper, A.Cooper, B.Young, D.Herriott, J.De Vries, J.Stephens, A.Evans, W.Waddington, T.Oliver.

Replacements: T.Best, E.Lusher, S.Churchyard, D.Heads. T.King.

 

Match photographs may be subject to copyright – Phillipa Hilton

v Esher

Canterbury Representatives in Winning Kent Under-20s Team

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Canterbury RFC are extremely proud to congratulate four of our young players, Harvey Furneaux, Tom Halliday, Will McColl, and Max Halliday, who represented Kent Under-20s.

Harvey Furneaux, Will McColl, and Max Halliday, were picked for the starting XV, with Tom Halliday being kept on the bench to provide impact later into the match.

The game played on 17 April 2022, at Charlton Park RFC, against Yorkshire was the semi-final of the Jason Leonard Under 20 County Championship Division 1 – with the final score being 34 – 13 to Kent.

Through this victory Kent move into the final against Cornwall on 1 May, which will take place at Sixways Stadium.

Match Report – Westcliff RFC vs Canterbury 1st XV

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

WESTCLIFF 19  CANTERBURY 33

by David Haigh

This was only the second away victory of the season for an inconsistent Canterbury side so the five points they took home from bottom of the table Westcliff were a welcome boost ahead of next Saturday’s meeting with league leaders Esher.

What the scoreline could not disguise, however, was the poor quality of a game in which both sides fed off unforced errors as much as their own skills.

Canterbury’s dominant scrummaging was the backbone of an untidy performance and three second half tries were enough to guarantee a result which should have been more convincing.

Playing into a chilly wind in the first half a patient build up brought a converted try for Dwayne Corcoran after 14 minutes but then the errors set in and Westcliff turned their gifts into points.

A turnover handed them the opportunity to make space for wing Sherif Olanrewaju and a second try followed after a horrible communication failure by the city backs.

Westcliff skipper Greg Bannister picked up, raced 50 metres to the line and added the goal points.

Relentless scrum pressure allowed Canterbury to square matters before half time.

Westcliff came under the cosh, James Scogings was yellow carded after repeated penalty offences and Canterbury finally broke them down with an overlap score from wing Frank Morgan.

After the break that same pack power pushed Canterbury clear with two tries in the space of seven minutes.

Steady pounding of the Westcliff line ended with prop Danny Herriott coming up with ball from under a pile of bodies and the lead was recaptured.

The second saw Westcliff  shunted back at a close range scrum and Number Eight Tyler Oliver made the touchdown.

Both were converted and at 26-12 the game was in the city side’s hands.

As the match went into its final quarter, however, a stubborn Westcliff fought back.

They forced penalties, won territory and lock George Maloney powered over for a try converted by Bannister.

It proved to be their last shot but as scruffy handling and poor control continued to plague both sides it was Canterbury who finished the stronger.

An attack down the left wing channel which at last had some poise about it sealed the game, bringing Morgan his second try and leaving Kyan Braithwaite to slot a fourth conversion.

Canterbury: D. Corcoran (repl A. Moss), G. Hilton, S. Sterling, K. Braithwaite, F. Morgan, B. Cooper (repl D. Heads), A. Cooper (repl J. Otto). B. Young, D. Herriott (repl E. Lusher), J. De Vries, J. Stephens (repl S. Churchyard), A. Evans, W. Waddington, T. Oliver

 

Match photographs may be subject to copyright – Tim Browne / Westcliff RFC

Jamie Stephens Stays for 2022-23

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Canterbury Rugby Club is proud to announce our first signing for the 2022-23 season is current club captain, Jamie Stephens.

Jamie Stephens has played through all levels of Canterbury Rugby Club: beginning as a young child in our Mini & Youth section, and then working his way up through the senior mens rugby teams at our club.

He first appeared for Canterbury’s 1st XV in 2017 at home against Clifton, becoming club captain in 2021.

Jamie has appeared for Canterbury’s 1st XV 76 times so far, with still more to give to the club.

On his continuing at Canterbury, Jamie Stephens said: ‘It’s great to be able to stay at the club for another season, as I feel I have so much more to offer the club’.

When asked about re-signing Jamie, head coach Matt Corker said: ‘Jamie has been an excellent ambassador for Canterbury on and off the field, I’m so glad he has chosen to stay with us for another season’.

 

v Barnes

Copyright – Phillipa Hilton / Canterbury Rugby Club



v Dings_46

Copyright – Phillipa Hilton / Canterbury Rugby Club

Match Report – Canterbury 3rd XV vs Cranbrook 2nd XV

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Canterbury 3s sealed the league win with a hard fought victory over a fired up and skillful Cranbrook side.

Cranbrook had beaten Canterbury on the opening game of the season at their ground and were in the running to win the league if they could beat Canterbury and deny them a bonus point.
The home side found space on the outside early in the game, with Sam Merrell gliding over from fullback for the opening score. But ill discipline gave Cranbrook field position and the visitors capitalised with a converted try and a penalty to take them ahead.
Canterbury made the most of the possession they were able to get, however. Ollie Simpson made a half break down the left and put Barney Howard into space, and the centre was able to cut inside 3 defenders and score under the posts. An arcing run by Alex Williams after great hands from Harry Jackson didn’t quite result in a try, but soon after Ben Waite wriggled free and dotted down in the left corner giving the home side a 15-10 platform at half time.
After the break Canterbury put themselves under pressure with repeated penalties given away, but fierce defence and breakdown work by Dan Mills and Jack Waite kept Cranbrook at bay. The pace and handling of the city side gave them plenty of opportunities and paid dividends before long. Slick passing put Mark Stone in the corner, and a sneaky tap and go saw Alex Williams slip through. Cranbrook still threatened, but the game was finally put to bed when a break by Jake Upward led to Dan Gill putting his famous sidestep to good use and scoring by the posts on the final play of the game.
Final score 32-10.
Season record: Played 18, won 15, lost 3.

Match Report – Canterbury 1st XV vs Clifton

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

CANTERBURY 24  CLIFTON 38

by David Haigh

From riches to rags then almost back again.

That was the Canterbury story on a day of swinging fortunes which saw the visitors take home a bonus point victory and keep their title hopes just about bubbling.

The scoreline ended the way it did because the city side, after a confident start which earned them a twelve point lead, suddenly switched off.

In a twenty minute spell, either side of half time, their defence fell apart and they conceded 31 unanswered points.

By the time the lights came on again the game had run away from them although a late rally brought a losing bonus point.

What started so well with tries from Royce Cadman, peeling off a driving maul, and Frank Reynolds who chased down a clever sliding kick, began to go down hill in the 33rd minute.

Canterbury, who had defended well up that point, were forced into a goaline drop out but stood transfixed as Clifton full back Alex Howman speared past weak tackles.

He was stopped short of the line but lock Henry Harper finished the job.

By half time it was all square, through a Howman try created by centre Marcus Nel’s clean break and a conversion by Zak Ward.

From the first minute of the second half Canterbury were in deep trouble as they handed Clifton easy territory, fell off tackles and were hit with another rapid three tries.

Nel got one almost from the kick -off, fly half Luke Cozens accurate kicking set up position for a catch drive score for Geroge Taylor and Harper got his second in the 54th minute.

Cozens added two conversions and the damage looked irreparable.  Amid the wreckage, however, Canterbury finally located the switch again and produced the rugby they should have played for the whole 80 minutes.

Delightful interplay by the backs sent Will Waddington under the posts, Kyan Braithwate landed his second conversion and three minutes later came a sliver of light when Will Hilton’s pass put Frank Morgan across for the bonus point try.

But to recover from that painful mid-game period was beyond them and Clifton topped things off with a late
converted try from Fin Sharp.

Canterbury; D.Corcoran (repl A.Moss), G.Hilton, S.Sterling,
K.Braithwaite, F.Morgan (repl D.Corcoran), F.Reynolds (repl W.Hilton),
B.Cooper, A.Cooper, B.Young (repl J.Otto), D.Herriott (repl E.Lusher),
R.Cadman (repl J.De Vries), J.Stephens, A.Evans, W.Waddington, T.Oliver

View match photos

Clifton_122

Images may be subject to copyright – Phillipa Hilton

Update on our Ukraine Appeal in Partnership with Marine Travel

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

At Canterbury RFC this past month we have been absolutely staggered by the immense generosity shown by our rugby family, our local community across Kent, and our wider sporting community for those who are suffering in Ukraine.

A manifested 450 boxes and bags have been collected at the Marine Travel Ground as part of a campaign started by our principle partner Marine Travel, sorted by a collective of staff from Marine and volunteers from within our rugby club, and loaded into vans which are being driven by England football fans to Poland where they will be distributed and destined for all corners of Ukraine.

We had collected so many bags and boxes of donated clothes, blankets, sanitary products, and medical supplies, that we had to stop accepting donations several days earlier than planned thanks to the absolutely overwhelming response shown by the communities which we are a part of.

Marine Travel’s amazing staff alongside our volunteer force of 14 took three hours to sort and box everything on Friday 25th. Then on Wednesday 30th the same group reconvened to load everything into the vans. We cannot thank our volunteers enough for their time and effort, and we cannot praise the staff of Marine Travel enough for their stalwart commitment to sorting and manifesting everything which was received.

We have united as a club, as a county, and as a sporting community, around the horrific events taking place in Ukraine currently.

Additionally, across two campaigns, one by our partner at BRS Education and the one by Marine Travel, we have raised (so far) a total of £28,467 (Twenty-eight-thousand, four-hundred, and sixty-seven GBP) going to support those in Ukraine.

We cannot thank our principal partner Marine Travel or our partner BRS Education enough for the work they are doing to try and better the situations which people are finding themselves locked into.

Thank you all for donating to our collection, we had no expectation of filling two of our containers with donations.

Thank you to Marine AFC for joining us across sports and across the country in supporting Ukraine.

Thank you to our many volunteers who helped to sort and load everything.

Thank you to England football fans, for driving the massive quantities from our club all the way to Ukraine.

Slava Ukraini.

If you wish to join us in our continued support of Ukraine you can do so by donating to the Marine Travel GoFundMe or BRS Education’s JustGiving

Match Report – Sevenoaks 4th XV vs Canterbury 3rd XV

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

By John Scurr

Sevenoaks 4th 11pt, Canterbury 3rds 15pts

Canterbury 3rds make a second half comeback to stay top of their league against a strong Sevenoaks side.

The city side had a torrid first half unable to contain Sevenoaks conceding penalties and a well taken try to go in at halftime with an eleven-point deficit. Whatever the team talk was at halftime seemed to do the trick.

The city side started their comeback with Tom short breaking from a rolling maul to burst over wide out to break the duck. This lifted the side and with Jonny Madden quick service from the midfield to give captain Ollie Simpson a try in the corner, all that was left was for Sam Merrell touch down in the other corner to seal the hard earned win.

Match Report – Faversham RUFC Castaways vs Canterbury Zingari

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

By John Scurr

Faversham 2nds 7pts Canterbury 57pts

Canterbury cement their second place league position with an overwhelming win against a well drilled Faversham side. The city side made their intentions clear from the start with Jerome Weigh’s trade mark try breaking line from short range. This settled the sides confidence and they began to dominate play, recycling the ball at will and opening up Faversham’s defence for the backs to get their share of glory with try’s from Toby Allen and Tim Collins. Faversham did manage a reply after a loose Canterbury ball was intercepted for a converted try, but could not stop the city side amassing a 30 to 7 halftime lead. The second half it was business as usual with Canterbury dominance opening the gaps in the mid-field running in more try’s, but the last word was from the forwards with a quickly tap penalty touching down from short range to seal the match.