Author: Denys Andrianjafy

Deacons show heart as experience prevails

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Deacons vs Sittingbourne 2’s Match Report

Fast starting Sittingbourne demonstrate experience is as important as youthfulness.

After 5 games in a row, injuries and a lack of Colts availability changed the nature of the squad. Up stepped the boys from CCCU, despite a number of them having played earlier in the week.

Captained by Brad Nicholson the youngsters encountered a very experienced, wiley & fired up Sittingbourne. The opposition had a plan and made a fast start, running hard lines & making full use of a forward pack that play and train together regularly. Every aspect of the Deacons defence was being tested relentlessly.

With several players playing out of their usual position it took a half to settle into the game. By then, at 33 points down we knew there was a mountain to climb.
Several regulars played with incredible passion and desire – Tom Smith (returning from injury), Oli Turton getting stopped a few metres short of the try line, our very own Big Lol narrowly missing out on a try & debutant Deacon Jasper Emmanuel stepping off his usual flank to have a spectacular game at 12.

Occasionally we needed some luck, and we didn’t have any on the day. The boys from Bourne weren’t willing to let us play and worked hard to retain the ball. When we had the ball we could challenge, play wide and came close to scoring and each time we entered the opposition 22. Credit to Sittingbourne for the work over the ball & on the floor to retrieve & retain possession, some of it legal.

Once again, the Deacons resolve and discipline shone. Heads never dropped & tempers didn’t flair even when mistakes were made. Despite the scoreline, the second half belonged to us as we made life difficult for the home side frustrating them into mistakes and penalties. We finished 59 – 0 working tirelessly for every minute to get some points on the board.

For outstanding leadership, solo running, kicking from hand & defence, POTM was awarded to our Loosehead Prop Mr Brad Nicholson.

Canons dig deep to keep title charge on track

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

With 5 games to go this season, the Canons knew that victory was the only option against a tough Bromley side to ensure that the Counties 4 title comes to the MTG in April.

The game did not start as intended with Bromley quickly scoring from the kickoff with a missed tackle on the wing allowing the fullback space to chip and chase and gather the ball and score under the posts.

The Canons responded however, winning a penalty in front of the post and choosing to take the points – the message before the game being to keep the scoreboard ticking over. This was quickly followed by a try from Captain Ben Jones, who battled over from short range. A second penalty preceded a second score from Will Rayner after some good footwork on the wing before Bromley responded with their own try just before the halftime whistle. At the break, the Canons lead 20 points to 15.

Bromley carried that momentum into the second half, playing with intent and putting pressure on the Canons’ defence. Canterbury‘s discipline started to slip which resulted in a number of penalties for Bromley allowing them to kick deep into the Canons half. Eventually, they made the most of the pressure and scored a converted try to take the lead.

However, it was in the last 15 minutes that the Canons switched back on and showed why they have been so dominant in this league. Good interplay created gaps in the Bromley defence, allowing Josh Lamb to break through and score under the posts. This was followed by a Harry Jackson try who, playing with intent, collected the ball outwide to charge over for a try.
From the kickoff the Canons won back the ball deep in their half and moved it through the hands to allow Lamb to break down the wing to get close before Vaughan Rothery dived over from close range.

With Bromley heads down, the final try of the afternoon was the pick of the bunch. Strong carries got the Canons back into the Bromley half, which allowed Will Rayner to play a beautiful grubber in behind the defence which was collected by Lamb to grab his second of the afternoon. Job done.

With 2 tough away games to come against Cliffe and 2nd place Old Williamsonians (the prior beating the latter this weekend!), the Canons know that their fate is in their hands for the run into the end of the season.

Zingari edge thriller in gritty finale

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Canterbury 14pts. Old Gravesendians 2nd 12pts.

The Zingari just held on in the dying moments of the game to snatch the win in this fiercely competitive encounter that saw both sides give a display of not only exciting but skillful rugby. From the start, both sides only had attack on their minds with Gravesend having the better of the territory in the opening quarter. This eventually saw them camping on the Canterbury try line before their forwards forced an opening try out wide, and finished it off with a difficult conversion to put them in the lead. As so often happens after a score Gravesend made a poor clearance that was gathered by Rob Horan and run back at them with devastating consequences finishing off with a try near the posts for the simple conversion. Back on level terms, both sides re-engaged before a series of clever offloads opened up the Zingari defence, but the resulting try only delivered the five points with the conversion sliding past the near post to give Gravendians a five-point halftime lead.

The second half saw both sets of forwards struggled to dominate both in the loose and at the set piece, Old Gravesendians holding a slight advantage at the scrums and Canterbury disrupting Gravesendians lineouts neither side looked like they could break free. The breakthrough came as the game entered the last quarter with Gravesendians giving away a series of penalties the Zingari got within striking distance for Henry Collins to force his way over the line, and with Rob Horan slotting the extra points for the conversion secured the slender two-point lead. All to play for as the clock ticked down Gravesendians poured everything into the attack, the city side despite being now a man down through injury raised their game with a heroic display of tackling. With the game now into injury time it was not over with a final Gravesendians attack, ending with a messy scramble on the city line before a boot finally manage to clear the ball into touch, claiming a narrow, but well-deserved win.

POWER AND ACCURACY COUNT

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

CANTERBURY 23 TONBRIDGE JUDDIANS 46

by David Haigh

The league leaders gave Canterbury an impressive demonstration of accuracy and finishing power as they marched to this National 2 East victory. They built a winning platform in the first half, held off a spirited challenge in the third quarter then closed out the game decisively with three tries in the final ten minutes. An early lead for the city side, from a Frank Reynolds penalty goal, was quickly wiped out by a hat trick of tries by Juddians hooker Will Colling, all if them coming directly or indirectly from catch and drives as Canterbury paid the price of conceding penalties. Their troubles were compounded by injuries to full back Kurt Heatherley and wing Harvey Young, which meant a reshuflle of the back division, but after Colling had struck twice and the conversions failed , Reynolds kept them in touch with two further penalty goals. When Juddians pounced again with a third try, spreading the ball from a driving maul before Colling barreled over, the kick was again off target but two minutes before the break they worked a bonus point score for prolific wing Curtis Barnes and their first successful conversion opened a 22-9 lead. It was, however a newly energised Canterbury that emerged for the second half to put Juddians under sustained pressure. It brought them a try through Frank Morgan’s powerful finish and Reynolds conversion narrowed the gap to six points. But for all the territory they occupied and pressure applied in this dominant period the city side could not turn it into further scores. Handling errors were the chief culprit against an aggressive visiting defence and a Connor Lloyd penalty goal for Juddians disrupted the flow. Canterbury could not be faulted for effort but they faded and were ruthlessly exposed in the closing stages. A break in midfield left Howard Packman a straight run in; Lloyd spotted acres of space on the blind side of a maul to hand Barnes his second try and, as Canterbury gamely tried to attack, Charlie Self intercepted Reynolds pass to charge in for the seventh try. Lloyd converted all of them but there was last minute consolation for the city side when Sam Rogers, who worked tirelessly all day, forced his way over and Reynolds conversion ended a contest in which the title chasers were, unmistakably, the better side.

Canterbury: K.Heatherley, G.Jones, F.Morgan, W.Waddington, H.Young, F.Reynolds, P.Williams, D.Huntley, E.O’Donoghue, D.Herriott, C.McGovern, J.Stephens, C.Thomas, S.Rogers, T.Oliver. Replacements: T.Best, H.Furneaux, A.Cooper, O.Frostick, J.De Vries.

View match photos

v Tonbridge Juddians - 15 Feb 2025

Images may be subject to copyright – Phillipa Hilton

CANTERBURY 23 TONBRIDGE JUDDIANS 46

Around the Ground

Around the Ground at the MTG

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

It was a weekend of hard-fought battles and standout performances across all levels of Canterbury Rugby Club. The 1st XV came up just short in a closely contested 22-18 loss to Westcombe Park, while the Women’s team put in a determined display but fell 15-7 to Heathfield & Waldron.

There were plenty of positives elsewhere, with the Deacons delivering a dominant 76-0 victory over Vigo 2nds. In the junior ranks, the Boys U13’s Spitfires edged out Tonbridge Juddians 25-20, while the Hurricanes stormed to a 35-5 win over Bromley. The U16s narrowly lost 12-13 to Sevenoaks in a thriller, and the U14’s took on Dover winning 20 – 0.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to another exciting weekend of rugby! Check out the upcoming fixtures below and come down to cheer on the teams.

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

Weekend roundup

Westcombe Park 22 – 18 1st XV: Canterbury’s six-match winning run came to a frustrating end in the muddy conditions at Westcombe Park, where despite dominating territory, they struggled to break down a resilient defence. A poor start saw them concede eight early points before Sam Rogers’ catch-and-drive try and a Frank Reynolds penalty brought them level. However, Combe struck again before half-time to take a 15-8 lead.

The hosts extended their advantage with a converted try in the second half, and despite Canterbury controlling territory, they couldn’t find a way through until Jamie Stephens powered over in the 63rd minute. A late Reynolds penalty secured a losing bonus point, but it wasn’t enough to prevent a disappointing 22-18 defeat.

Deacons 76 – 0 Vigo 2nds: After a tough defeat to Thanet last week, Deacons were determined to respond, and they did so in emphatic fashion with a dominant 72-0 victory over Vigo 2nds. A fast start saw the backs cross the line within 10 minutes, quickly followed by three more first-half tries, all converted by returning kicker Josh Lamb.

Despite losing a player to injury, Deacons upheld the spirit of the game, with Leon Benning stepping in to play for Vigo in the second half. Canterbury continued to apply pressure, running in try after try to seal their biggest win of the season.

Credit to Vigo for battling until the final whistle, and congratulations to Lennie “Westside” West, named Player of the Match!

Heathfield & Waldron Ladies 15 – 7 Canterbury Women: Canterbury Women put in a determined performance against league leaders Heathfield & Waldron but fell just short in tough conditions. Despite dominating at the breakdown and scoring a well-worked try, repeated penalties against us gave Heathfield the advantage. A second-half penalty extended their lead, and despite Canterbury’s relentless effort, the home defence held firm.

It was a hard-fought contest, highlighting the team’s resilience and strong defensive play. Plenty of positives to take forward as we look ahead to our next challenge!

Boys U13’s Spitfires 25 – 20 Tonbridge Juddians U13’s
Boys U13’s Hurricanes 35 – 5 Bromley U13’s
Boys U14’s 20 – 0 Dover
boys U16’s 12 – 13 Sevenoaks

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

Next fixtures

Saturday 15th February

1st XV v Tonbridge Juddians – Home KO 3.00pm
Pilgrims v Beccehamians – Away KO 2.00pm
Canons v Bromley 2nds – Home KO 2.00pm
Deacons v Sittingbourne 2nds – Away KO 2.00pm
Zingari v Old Gravesendians 2nds – Away KO 2.00pm

Sunday 16th February

Mini and Youth

Mixed U6’s – Simon Langton 4G 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U7’s v Whitstable – Simon Langton 4G 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U8’s v Whitstable, Simon Langton 4G 9.00am to 10.00am
Mixed U9’s v Whitstable – Bottom Orchard 9.00am to 10.30am
Mixed U10’s v Whitstable – Top Orchard 9.00am to 10.30am
Mixed U11’s v Whitstable and Dover – Top Pitch 9.00am to 10.30am
Boys U12’s Gold v Old Alleynians – Away
Boys U12’s Black v Sheppey – Away
Boys U13’s weekend off
Boys U14’s v Lordswood – Bottom Orchard 10.30am
Boys U15’s v Chelmsford – Simon Langton 4G 12.00pm
Boys U16’s v Medway – Simon Langton 4G 10.00am
Colts v Deal and Betts – Top Pitch 11.00am

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.

RALPHH donates life-saving defibrillator to Canterbury RFC

Rugby is more than just a game—it’s about community, support, and looking out for one another. That’s why Canterbury Rugby Club is incredibly grateful to RALPHH (The Robert Allen Life Promotion and Healthy Hearts Trust) for their generous donation of a defibrillator. This vital piece of equipment could one day save the life of a player, supporter, or member of our rugby family.

Safety in sport is a shared responsibility, and this donation reinforces our commitment to protecting everyone involved in our club. Our Chairman, proudly accepted the defibrillator alongside Richard Allen, Chairman of RALPHH, and club representatives Ella Jenkins and Harry Sloan, highlighting the importance of community in everything we do.

With 1,750 members, including 750 players across all age groups, Canterbury RFC is more than just a club—it’s a family. We sincerely thank RALPHH for their support, and while we hope we never need to use this defibrillator, knowing it’s there means the world to us.

Read the full news story

Canterbury Hellfire’s Fresh Look Thanks to Sponsorship

Canterbury Hellfire Wheelchair Rugby is excited to reveal a brand-new look, made possible by generous sponsorship from Howden and Marine Travel Ltd. The support includes branded wheel stickers, team hoodies, and a new home kit, set to debut when the competition season begins in April.

This sponsorship strengthens team morale and identity as we compete nationwide. A huge thank you to Howden and Marine Travel for their continued support!

Read the full news story

Canterbury RFC wins the Ultimate Guinness Rugby Experience!

Canterbury RFC’s dedication to growing and sustaining rugby has been recognised on a grand scale—we were honoured to win the Ultimate Guinness Rugby Experience at the Guinness Men’s Six Nations 2025! This prestigious award celebrates grassroots clubs making a significant impact on the sport, and we were privileged to be selected.

As part of this honour, ten of our club members enjoyed an unforgettable experience at the England vs. France clash on 8th February. They received exclusive behind-the-scenes access, including a dressing room tour, a player meet & greet, and the rare privilege of walking the match ball onto the pitch and overseeing the official coin toss.

A huge thank you to Guinness GB for this incredible opportunity and for championing grassroots rugby. This experience was a reminder of the values that define Canterbury RFC—teamwork, leadership, and community. Here’s to more unforgettable moments both on and off the pitch!

Read the full news story

Canterbury 1st XV to Support Rugby Against Cancer This Saturday

Our 1st XV will not be sporting the usual black & amber socks this Saturday during their game against Tonbridge Juddians, but will be wearing Rugby against Cancer socks. A fantastic charity that has mobilised the rugby community to fundraise and help those living with cancer.

Over £30,000 has been donated by Rugby Against Cancer to help the lives of those affected by cancer in the UK. If you wish to find out more and donate, go to their website – https://www.rugbyagainstcancer.com/

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!

We wish you all the best of rugby!

Canterbury Hellfire unveil fresh new look thanks to Howden and Marine Travel sponsorship

Posted on | by Denys Andrianjafy

Wheelchair rugby, the only full-contact disability sport, is tough on equipment. Even a relatively new wheelchair can quickly show signs of wear and tear. Thanks to sponsorship from Howden and Marine Travel Ltd, Canterbury Hellfire’s chairs and players are getting a much-needed refresh.

Howden and Marine Travel have provided branded wheel stickers, team hoodies, and a brand-new home kit, which will debut in April as the new season begins. Their support ensures the team looks and feels ready to compete at the highest level across the country.

Rik Tyler, Branch Manager at Howden Canterbury, said:
“As the Principal Partner of The British & Irish Lions, Howden is committed to being a force for good in rugby communities across the UK and Ireland. We’re proud to support Canterbury Hellfire Wheelchair Rugby, ensuring the sport remains accessible and inclusive for all.”

With this fresh look and strong backing from their sponsors, Canterbury Hellfire is ready to tackle the season ahead with confidence and pride.

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!