Author: Denys Andrianjafy

Deacons Dominate in Biggest Win of the Season

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

It was time to bounce back after a difficult defeat to Thanet last week. A fast start was needed with the team keen to put some early points on the board. From kick off the Deacons made their intentions clear working effectively to get over the gain line.

The backs scored after 10 minutes quickly followed by a 2nd through the centres. 2 more followed before the break with no response from the visitors. Returning Deacons Josh Lamb was accurate with the boot to add the extras.

After losing a player to injury, Leon Benning played the second half in Vigo colours causing the Deacons defence some trouble while also demonstrating some of the teams core values of sportsmanship.

The second half saw Canterbury run in try after try with the final score standing at 72-0. Our win of the season.

Great effort from Vigo who played through until the last minute against stiff opposition.

POTM – Lennie ‘Westside’ West

Canterbury RFC grateful for life-saving gift from RALPHH

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

At Canterbury Rugby Club, we’ve always believed that rugby is more than just a game—it’s about community, camaraderie, and looking out for one another. That’s why we are beyond grateful to RALPHH (The Robert Allen Life Promotion and Healthy Hearts Trust) for their incredible donation of a defibrillator to our club. This isn’t just a piece of equipment; it’s something that could save a life—the life of a player, a supporter, or a member of our wider rugby family.

Rugby is about people first
Since 1929, Canterbury RFC has been built on a foundation of togetherness. Whether it’s our five senior men’s teams, our amazing women’s team, our Colts, girls, mini & youth sections, walking rugby, or wheelchair rugby, we are a club for everyone. We even work with the local RugbyTots franchise, introducing boys and girls as young as two years old to the sport. Rugby brings us together, and keeping each other safe is part of our responsibility to the game and each other.

Our Community Department has helped over 2,000 young people get involved in rugby, and through our partnership with Archbishop’s School, we’ve built the ACE Academy, blending expert coaching with academic support. But what makes us most proud is that our club feels like home to so many—whether you’re pulling on a jersey, cheering from the sidelines, or just dropping in for a cuppa at our café.

A heartfelt thanks to RALPHH
When we received this defibrillator, it wasn’t just another addition to our clubhouse—it was a reminder that we are not alone in prioritising safety in sport. We know that sudden cardiac events can happen to anyone, and having this life-saving equipment on hand gives us peace of mind. RALPHH has been doing incredible work across sports like rowing, hockey, and sailing, and we are truly honoured that they have chosen to support us in this way.

Our Chairman, Giles Hilton MBE, was proud to accept the defibrillator alongside Richard Allen, Chairman of RALPHH, and two of our own, Ella Jenkins and Harry Sloan, who dedicate so much to both playing and giving back to the community. Their presence perfectly summed up what this donation means to us—a club that stands together, on and off the pitch.

More than just a game
With 1,750 members, including 750 playing members, Canterbury RFC is more than a rugby club—it’s a family. We are proud of our men’s first team, currently fourth in National 2 East, and our women’s team, sitting at a strong fourth place. But more than wins and league tables, we are proud of the spirit of our club and what it stands for.

This donation reinforces something we have always known—rugby is about looking after each other. Whether it’s a game-winning try or a life-saving defibrillator, every moment matters.

Thank you, RALPHH, for this gift. We hope we never have to use it, but knowing it’s there means the world to us.

Canterbury RFC wins Ultimate Guinness Rugby Experience at Six Nations 2025

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

At Canterbury RFC, our commitment to fostering a thriving rugby community has always been at the heart of everything we do. This past weekend, that dedication was recognised on a grand scale as we were honoured to win the Ultimate Guinness Rugby Experience at the Guinness Men’s Six Nations 2025.

A Celebration of Rugby’s Grassroots Heroes

The Ultimate Guinness Rugby Experience is a prestigious competition that acknowledges clubs across the UK playing a pivotal role in the growth and sustainability of rugby. It was a privilege for Canterbury RFC to be selected for this incredible honour, reflecting our dedication to the sport both on and off the pitch.

As part of this recognition, ten of our club members were granted a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend the highly anticipated England vs. France clash on Saturday, 8th February. But this was no ordinary match day experience—our representatives were given exclusive access to behind-the-scenes action that made the occasion truly unforgettable.

Our lucky members were:

Dom Graham (match ball)
Alice Hayward (coin toss with captains)
Daniella Charles (coin toss with captains)
Ella Jenkins
Alexander Sullivan
Matthew Pinnick
Karen Plumb
Bob Plumb
Hamish Dunn
Jess Graham

A day to remember

Our Canterbury RFC members were treated to:

  • A behind-the-scenes dressing room tour – An exclusive look into the inner sanctum of international rugby.
  • An exclusive player meet & greet – The chance to interact with some of the biggest stars of the game.
  • The honour of walking the match ball onto the pitch – A moment of immense pride for our club.
  • Overseeing the official coin toss – A rare privilege that put our club at the heart of the action.

This experience was more than just a celebration—it was a powerful reminder of the values that rugby instills: teamwork, leadership, resilience, and community. These are the principles that define Canterbury RFC and drive us to nurture the next generation of players, ensuring the continued success of rugby at all levels.

A thank you to Guinness

We extend our sincere gratitude to  Guinness GB for this incredible opportunity and for their ongoing support in recognising and celebrating the clubs that form the backbone of rugby. Initiatives like this ensure that grassroots rugby continues to flourish, inspiring future generations to embrace the sport with passion and dedication.

This recognition strengthens our resolve to continue building an inclusive and thriving rugby community. Here’s to many more moments of success and camaraderie, both on and off the pitch!

Around the Ground

Around the ground at the MTG

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

The 1st XV secured their sixth consecutive win with a hard-fought 29-25 victory over Worthing, while Pilgrims staged a brilliant second-half comeback to beat Bromley 43-37 and stay top of Counties 1. The Canons won 29-12 against Kings College Hospital, but the Deacons fell to Thanet 3rds, 10-39.

A depleted Zingari side showed great fight against league leaders Gillingham but lost 36-21 after a late surge from the hosts.

In the youth section, the Boys U12 Black claimed a strong 40-10 win, while the U13 Spitfires drew 25-25. The Colts narrowly lost 33-38 in a tight contest.

A week of mixed results but plenty of positives for Canterbury Rugby Club!

Weekend roundup

Worthing 25 – 29 1st XV: Canterbury made it six wins in a row but were pushed hard by National 2 East’s bottom club, Worthing. The home side struck first through Harrison Dakin’s try from a driving maul, but Canterbury responded with two quick scores. Kurt Heatherley capitalized on a spilt cross-field kick, and Tom Williams weaved through the defense for a well-taken try, both converted by Frank Reynolds. Worthing hit back before halftime, leaving Canterbury with a narrow 14-10 lead at the break.

Despite losing Tom Best to a sin bin, Canterbury extended their lead with a try from Garry Jones and a Reynolds penalty. Worthing fought back with a stunning 80-metre interception try from Jack Forrest and another score from Tom Derrick, bringing them within touching distance of a shock win. However, Canterbury sealed the victory with a penalty try after Worthing’s Frank Taggart illegally stopped a maul. A late Worthing penalty secured them a second bonus point, but Canterbury held on for a hard-fought win.

Pilgrims 43 – 37 Bromley: Pilgrims faced a crucial test against Bromley, a side that had edged them out earlier in the season. Opting to play uphill in the first half, they found themselves trailing after an early Bromley penalty and a well-worked try. Pilgrims responded swiftly, with full-back Guy Hilton finishing off a well-linked attack, converted by Owain Collins. Bromley remained dangerous, adding another try before Pilgrims closed the gap through Jesse de Vries, who powered over from a scrum. However, Bromley struck twice before halftime, including a quick-thinking try from a fast lineout, giving them a 29-14 advantage at the break.

The second half saw Pilgrims’ resilience shine through. They added a penalty and a second Hilton try before a yellow card for Collins put them under pressure. Despite being a man down, Harry Chubb’s converted try gave them the lead. Further scores from Harvey Furneaux and Sonny Trew-Neville extended their advantage. Bromley fought back with a late try and penalty, but Pilgrims’ defense held firm to secure a 43-39 bonus point win. The victory keeps them top of Counties 1 with five games remaining.

Kings College Hospital 12 – 29 Canons
Deacons 10 – 39 Thanet 3rds

Gillingham 36 – 21 Zingari: A depleted Zingari side faced a formidable challenge against top-of-the-table Gillingham Anchorians, who sportingly matched numbers to ensure the game went ahead. The early exchanges saw Canterbury adjusting to unfamiliar positions, allowing Gillingham to capitalize with two converted tries in the opening 20 minutes. A fumbled ball near the Zingari line gifted the visitors a third score just before halftime, giving them a commanding 19-0 lead at the break.

Undeterred, Zingari came out with renewed energy in the second half, breaking through the Anchorians’ defense to score a converted try under the posts. Their increased intensity and dominant forward play soon led to another converted score, putting Gillingham under pressure. Although the visitors hit back with a try out wide, Zingari’s relentless efforts saw them cross for a third converted try, closing the gap to just three points.

As fatigue set in, Gillingham’s fresh legs proved the difference, with two late tries and a conversion securing their victory. Despite the result, Zingari displayed immense character and resilience, pushing the league leaders to the limit in a fiercely contested encounter.

Boys U12 Black 40 – 10 Old Elthamians U12
Boys U12 Amber 15 – 25 Old Elthamians U12 Gold
Boys U13 Spitfires 25 -25 Old Elthamians U13
Boys U14 0 – 39 Old Alleynians
Colts 33 – 38 Aylesford Colts

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

Next fixtures

Saturday 8th February

1st XV v Westcombe Park Away – KO 2.00pm
Deacons v Vigo 2nds Home – KO 2.00pm (rearranged fixture from 11/01)

Sunday 9th February

Canterbury Women v Heathfield & Waldron Ladies Away – KO 2.00pm

YOUTH FIXTURES
Boys U13’s Spitfires v Tonbridge Juddians U13’s – Away
Boys U13’s Hurricanes v Bromley U13’s – Away
Boys U14’s v Dover  -Home (Kent College)
boys U16’s v Sevenoaks – Away
Boys U16’s Dev v Park House – Away

TRAINING
Mini’s away at Thanet
Mixed U6’s Simon Langton 4G – 9.00am – 10.00am
Boys U12’s Training Bottom Orchard  – 10.00am – 11.30am
Boys U15’s Top Orchard – 10.00am – 11.30am
Colts Simon Langton 4G – 10.00am onwards

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.

1st XV Pre-match lunch table available

Mark your calendars—February 15th is shaping up to be a massive day as we welcome league leaders Tonbridge Juddians to the MTG. This will be a battle for the ages, and not one for the faint-hearted!

And what better way to prepare than with a pre-match lunch? A table has just become available—the perfect way to fuel up before the action kicks off.

Be quick! Spaces are limited. To secure your spot, contact kirsty@cantrugby.co.uk today.

See you there for what promises to be an unforgettable showdown!

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 1.00pm! Book now at saucyflos@gmail.com

Remaining Pilgrims home games:

March 1st v Dover
April 5th v Crowborough

Saturdays are all about rugby, community, and connection. Don’t miss out and join us!

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 2 – Saturday 8th February

Italy v Wales: Stadio Olimpico – KO 2.15pm
England v France: Twickenham – KO 4.45pm

Sunday 9th February

Scotland v Ireland: Murrayfield – KO 3.00pm

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

ROUND 4 – Saturday 8th March

Ireland v France: Aviva Stadium – KO 2.15pm
Scotland v Wales: Murrayfield – KO 4.45pm

Sunday 9th March

England v Italy: Twickenham – KO 3.00pm

ROUND 5 – Saturday 15th March

Italy v Ireland: Stadio Olimpico – KO 2.15pm
Wales – England: Principality – KO 4.45pm
France v Scotland: Stade de France – KO 8.00pm

Come cheer on your teams with other 6 Nations supporters!

We wish you all the best of rugby!

Zingari battle bravely but Anchorians prevail

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Canterbury 21pts. Gillingham Anchorians 2nd 36pts.

A much-depleted Zingari side took on this top of the table Gillingham Anchorians, who in the true spirit of the game agreed to match the numbers to play this fixture. The game started in a predictable manner with many Canterbury players struggling in their unfamiliar positions. Gillingham took full advantage breaking the Zingari defence in the twelfth minute for a converted try followed ten minutes later by another converted try. The Zingari were a little unlucky towards the end of the first half with a fumbled ball near their own line allowed Gillingham to touch down in the corner to give them a healthy nineteen-point lead going in to the second half.

Canterbury undaunted with the score line went onto the attack early breaking Anchorians defensive line to go under the posts for a converted try to break their duck. The city side upped their work rate with some impressive tackling, and soon had Gillingham on the back foot, and with the pack splintering Anchorians defence put the back line away for their second converted try. Gilliam replied with a well taken try on the outside, but the city forwards had the bit between their teeth and soon dominated the loose for their third converted try of the afternoon. All seemed to be going well with now only three points between the sides but they ran out of steam when fresh legs came on for the last ten minutes. The Zingari did well but could not hold the onslaught as Gillingham added a two more try’s, and a conversion to close out this well-contested game by both sides.

Around the Ground

Around the Ground at the MTG

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

15 teams sporting Black & Amber last weekend, and another fantastic display of rugby spirit all round. A fifth consecutive win for the 1st XV, the Canons maintaining the top spot despite a tough hard-fought draw, the Deacons relentlessly battling in the face of a strong top of the table Ashford Barbarians team, and Zingari’s win against a tough Gravesend side. Our youth teams represented well, with our Girls U16 continuing to make good progress, Boys U15 remaining undefeated this season, and again, we fielded three Colts teams.

Next weekend is going to be a cracker!

Weekend roundup

Havant 5 – 61 1st XV: Canterbury extended their winning run to five games with a commanding nine-try performance against Havant, closing the gap on third-placed Dorking to just two points. Despite injuries forcing a reshuffled squad, the team displayed efficiency and flair, storming to a 30-0 halftime lead. Frank Reynolds’ early penalty was followed by tries from Kurt Heatherley, Garry Jones, Eoin O’Donoghue, and Sam Rogers.

Havant briefly rallied in the second half but struggled against Canterbury’s relentless attack. Further tries from Tyler Oliver, Tom Best, Tom Williams, Harvey Furneaux, and a late score from O’Donoghue sealed an emphatic victory, highlighting Canterbury’s depth and dominance.

Old Colfeians 2nds 19 – 19 Canons: The Canons were given a reality check as they battled to a 19-19 draw against Old Colfeians, reminding them that top spot in Counties 4 is no guarantee. Colfes started strong, scoring twice to take a 12-0 lead before Canterbury responded with a driving maul try before halftime.

A missed tackle allowed Colfes to extend their lead early in the second half, but the Canons fought back with tries from Will Rayner and captain Harry Nicholson, with conversions from Josh Lamb and Henry Carruthers leveling the score. Despite late momentum, Canterbury couldn’t find a winner, settling for a frustrating draw. They now turn their focus to next week’s clash against Kings College Hospital.

Deacons 5 – 41 Ashford Barbarians: Facing the top-of-the-table Barbarians, the Deacons put up a fierce fight despite a 5-41 defeat. A strong defensive effort and aggressive counter-attacks kept the visitors at bay early on, but Barbarians broke through with two first-half tries to lead 12-5 at the break.

The second half saw Barbarians’ class shine through, with quick tries and fortunate bounces extending their lead. Despite two disallowed tries, the Deacons kept pushing, challenging their opponents in open play and at the scrum.

Player of the Match: Oli Turton
Standout Player: Jadyn Moore
Honourable Mentions: The entire team—progress continues!

Zingari 34 – 24 Gravesend 4ths: Canterbury Zingari avenged their earlier defeat to Gravesend with a determined 19-17 victory. Despite conceding an early try, their relentless tackling nullified Gravesend’s powerful pack, allowing their backs to capitalize with two tries for a 12-5 halftime lead.

A quick second-half score extended Canterbury’s advantage, but an injury left them with 14 men for the final 20 minutes. Gravesend fought back with two late tries, but the Zingari’s earlier dominance ensured a well-earned win in a fiercely contested match.

Boys U12’s v Cranbrook: A fantastic display of rugby from our 43-strong U12 squad! With two Canterbury teams taking on two Cranbrook sides in back-to-back matches, every player had the chance to shine, with a minimum of half a game each.

An incredible effort from all involved, showcasing skill, teamwork, and the depth of talent in our young players.

Boys U13 Spitfires 25 – 10 Sevenoaks
Boys U13 Hurricanes 30 – 10 Dartford Valley
Boys U14’s 60 – 0 Gravesend
Boys U14’s 0 – 36 Gillingham Anchorians
Boys U15’s 42 – 5 Dover
Boys U16’s 38 – 19 Westcombe Park

Girls U16’s 27 – 55 Tunbridge Wells: The team put in a strong second-half performance at home against Tunbridge Wells, showing resilience and determination. Despite a challenging start, they regrouped and won the second half with solid defense and powerful attacking runs. Contributions from the U16s made a big impact, helping the team gain momentum. A great team effort, highlighting their progress and fighting spirit.

Colts 1st XV 33 – 26 Dartford Valley Colts
Colts Dragons 27 – 10 Tonbridge Juddians
Colts Tigers 10 – 14 Westcombe Park

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

Next fixtures

Saturday 1st February

Worthing v 1st XV Away – KO 3.00pm (Rearranged from 11th Jan)
Pilgrims v Bromley Home – KO 2.00pm
Kings College Hospital v Canons Away – KO 2.00pm
Deacons v Thanet 3rds Home – KO 2.00pm
Gillingham v Zingari Away – KO 2.00pm

Sunday 2nd February

MINIS FIXTURES

Mixed U7’s and U8’s v Cranbrook Simon Langton 4G – 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U9’s and U10’s v Cranbrook Top Orchard  – 9.00am to 10:30am
Mixed U11’s v Cranbrook Bottom Orchard –  9.00am to10.30am

YOUTH FIXTURES

Boys U12 Black v Old Elthamians U12 Simon Langton 4G – KO 10.30am
Baoys U12 Amber v Old Elthamians U12 Gold Simon Langton 4G – KO 10.30am
Boys U13 Spitfires – v Old Elthamians U13 Bottom Orchard – KO 11.00am
Boys U14 v Old Alleynians U14 Vikings Away
Boys U15 Black v Sevenoaks U15 Away
Boys U15’s v Chelmsford Away
Colts v Aylesford Simon Langton 4G – KO 12:00pm

MINI & YOUTH TRAINING

Mixed U6’s Grids – 9.00am to 10.00am
Boys U14’s Training Pitch – 10:30am
Boys U16’s Top Pitch – 10:30am

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.

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 1.15pm! Book now at saucyflos@gmail.com

Pilgrims, currently sitting at the top of Counties 1 Kent – take on Bromley at the MTG at 2.00pm. This promises to be a thrilling clash!

After the game, come and watch Six Nations, clubhouse style – All games will be shown on our big screens. Gather near the log burner, enjoy a drink from the bar, and soak up the atmosphere as you cheer for your teams in comfort.

This Saturday is all about rugby, community, and connection.

Don’t miss out, and join us!

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 1 – Friday 31st January

France v Wales: Stade de France – KO 8.15pm

Saturday 1st February

Scotland v Italy: Murrayfield – KO 2.15pm
Ireland v England: Aviva Stadium – KO 4.45pm

ROUND 2 – Saturday 8th February

Italy v Wales: Stadio Olimpico – KO 2.15pm
England v France: Twickenham – KO 4.45pm

Sunday 9th February

Scotland v Ireland: Murrayfield – KO 3.00pm

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

ROUND 4 – Saturday 8th March

Ireland v France: Aviva Stadium – KO 2.15pm
Scotland v Wales: Murrayfield – KO 4.45pm

Sunday 9th March

England v Italy: Twickenham – KO 3.00pm

ROUND 5 – Saturday 15th March

Italy v Ireland: Stadio Olimpico – KO 2.15pm
Wales – England: Principality – KO 4.45pm
France v Scotland: Stade de France – KO 8.00pm

Come cheer on your teams with other 6 Nations supporters!

We wish you all the best of rugby!

 

 

Deacons battle bravely but Babarians prove too strong in tough encounter

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Entertaining the top of the table side was always going to be a challenge. Babarians have only lost 1 game all season & their quality was never in question on Saturday.

However, the Deacons aren’t afraid of a challenge; the Babarians soon realised they weren’t going to have it all their own way as they struggled to break the deadlock in the midst of a ferocious home defensive effort and a string of intense counter attacks managed by the half backs around the pitch.

After 25 minutes Babarians managed to take the lead before scoring once more 10 minutes after.

Never deterred & buoyed by a disallowed try, the Deacons replied shortly before halftime ending 5-12 at the break.

The second half was a different game altogether. Babarians showed their class and strength in numbers & enjoyed a couple of lucky bounces. A pair of quick tries around the hour mark & a second disallowed try for us saw the visitors build a healthy lead.

Not content with letting them have it all their own way, we continued to stretch their defense with the ball in hand & challenge their pack at scrum time despite the Babarians significant front row size advantage.

FT 5-41
Player of the match Oli Turton
Jadyn Moore stand out player
Honourable mentions to the entire team – we keep building!

Canons stumble at the summit: Colfeians hold leaders to frustrating draw

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

The Canons were given a wake up call against Old Colfeians on Saturday, being held to a 19-19 draw and reminded that life at the summit of Counties 4 should not be taken be taken for granted

Colfe’s came out of the blocks with intensity and pace, with strong carrying from their forwards creating quick ball for the next phases. The Canons’ defence held firm, however, and it was only a lucky bounce of the ball that allowed Colfe’s to get the ball wide and score in the corner. 5-0. Following the kick off, the Canons upped their own intensity, and after a sustained period in the opposition 22, it was only a silly penalty, of which there were plenty that afternoon, that released pressure and allowed OC’s to exit. Colfes capitalised on this and worked their way up field to eventually bundle over from a close range line out. In the final 5 minutes of the half, Canterbury finally woke up and scored from their own driving lineout to close the gap to 12-5 at the break.

Colfes started the second half with the same intensity, and missed tackles and a good line from their 6 allowed the opposition in under the posts to score their third.
After a talking to and wake up call, Canterbury finally turned on their game. Good play in the midfield allowed the ball to get wide to Will Rayner and score out wide. Josh Lamb slotted the touch line conversion. 19-12.

From kick off, Canterbury collected the ball and again built good phases, putting pressure on the Colfe’s defence. It was only a return of the silly penalties which stopped the Canons from breaking through, forcing them to start their attack again from their half as Colfes exited. Eventually, Canterbury got within 5m of the try line, and captain Harry Nicholson crashed over to score, the conversion scored by Henry Carruthers. 19-19. In the final 10, the momentum was with the Canons, and after Colfes collected the ball following a chip and chase by Canterbury in the final play, their 10 kicked the ball out. A frustrating end, but a fair result on the day. If only there were 5 minutes of the game, the scoreline may have been in the Canons’ favour.

With another away game next week against a Kings College Hospital side who have had mixed results throughout the season, the Canons will look to get back to winning ways and consolidate their position at the top of Counties 4

Canterbury Triumphs in Hard-Fought Battle Against Gravesend 4ths

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Zingari 34pts. Gravesend 4th 24pts.

The Zingari entered this contest as underdogs after losing out in an away match earlier in the season, and in the opening moments, it looked as if Gravesend was going to repeat their earlier success scoring in the opening minutes. Already five points down within the first four minutes after some sustained heavy forward pressure Canterbury took stock, and in what can only be described as a lesson in tackling put the heavy Gravesend pack on the back foot. This gave the city backs their opportunity to run the ball that paid off with a converted try, and again with ten minutes before half time spread the ball wide touching down in the corner for a 12-5 halftime lead.

The second half started this time with Canterbury coming out of the blocks securing an early try out wide extending their lead. Gravesend reply was again to use their forward power, but again the Zingari tackling was up to the task stopping the momentum often behind the gain line. Canterbury had the territorial advantage and with the game going into the last quarter broke free in midfield for a clear run under the posts for a converted try. The city side looked in control when they were struck with an injury reducing the side to fourteen with twenty minutes to go. Gravesend took full advantage throwing everything into attack securing a converted try. The Zingari held out until the last minute before the Gravesend forward managed to force their way over the line for a converted try, too late to alter the result but added a degree of respectability to the final score in this very hard-fought contest.

Canterbury Women’s Stunning 36-0 Revenge: Roses Wilt at Merton Lane

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Sunday 19th January saw Canterbury Women welcome, league leaders, Dartford Valley to Merton Lane. Earlier in the season Dartford Roses secured a dominant, try bonus point, home victory. But on a gloomy January afternoon the tables were turned with Canterbury securing a thrilling 36-0 victory.

Dartford Valley started the contest with a penetrating kick deep into the Canterbury twenty-two. A missed catch, awkward bounce, fumble, knock-on and the initial advantage went to Dartford Roses. However, a robust Canterbury scrum and flying defensive double tackle from flanker Lucy Relf and number eight Hannah Sandeman set the tone for the remainder of the match. Canterbury’s pack, under guidance of captain Daniella Charles, hit in perfect harmony and drove Dartford backwards.

Scrum-half Ella Jenkins and fly-half Kate Rutherford seized the momentum and engaged the running forward pods.

Dynamic carries from Anneka Willis and Sandeman created a clean platform for Jenkins to unleash the ever-lively Lily Adams , sprinting a well crafted switch line. Adams activated her deadly fend to cut through the Rose defensive line. High-speed rucking support from Emily Kent and Flori Nassir allowed Jenkins to make a darting break around the fringe. Jenkins executed a perfectly floated offload, to the supporting Janina Hassen. With an accurately planted fended and killer side-step Hassen broke the last line of the Roses defence to secure the opening try for Canterbury.

From the restart Canterbury looked to continue to assert themselves physically. Aggressive line speed in defence rocked the Roses and allowed opportunities for Inger Philpott, Amber Waitimas and Jo Cole-Biroth to carry hard and build the phases. Fullback Emily Moriarty was animated all afternoon, consistently mixing up her lines of attack and making countless metres to put Canterbury in control.

Synchronicity between forwards and back ensured Canterbury continued to build the territorial advantage. Rutherford took advantage of a disorganised defence, accelerating through a gap and beating the fullback to score under the posts. Converting her own try this saw Canterbury go into halftime with a 12-0 lead.

The squad were motivated to entertain the expectant crowd. Canterbury started the second half with the same grit and determination seen in the first half. Lily Philpott ran out to make her senior team debut alongside her mother, and Canterbury stalwart, Inger Philpott.

Prop Alex Mills created instant impact with her trade mark dominant carry, offloading to Rutherford who scored her second of the afternoon.

The ever-energetic Moriarty thrived on the relentless work of the centre partnership of Kent and Adams. All afternoon the trio consistently ran the ball over the gain line. Lily Philpott thrived on the pitch, immediately making an impression with her driving tackles which the whole squad has experienced during training sessions!

Jenkins utilised the dynamic forwards effectively to build territory. But when the time was right she took control with a quick tap penalty and scored to secure the bonus point. The roar of the crowd and Canterbury players could probably have been heard in her native Welsh Valleys.

Dartford Valley, by their own admission in the post-match speech, had expected to come to Merton Lane and dominate the encounter. They never gave up the fight, continuing to tackle hard and be disruptive at the breakdown. But with twenty minutes to go Canterbury had certainly left the Roses scrapping for possession and floundering in attack.

Following a turnover scrum in the twenty-two Sandeman rapidly attacked right wing driving hard into a wall of Roses players. Willis, always quick to react, picked the ball and headed for the try line. With solid driving support, from the pack, momentum took Willis over the whitewash.

With the clock counting down Canterbury were determined to hold the scoreboard and not let the Roses pick up a try.

A last ditch attack from the Roses, substitute Amber Shepherd once again made an impressive string of tackles. Wing Alice Hayward, as always, hit the ruck with persistent aggression and secured a quality turnover. From this point Canterbury attacked in glorious waves of play between forwards and backs. Forward of the match, Sandeman, unleashed her snake hips and sprinting thirty metres to score under the posts. As she jumped to her feet Sandeman was engulfed with congratulatory hugs knowing a victory was secured. Rutherford converted to close out the game. This is definitely a match which will live long in the memory.

The next fixture is Sunday 9th February, away to Heathfield.