Author: Becca Williams

Match Report: TJ 3’s 62 Deacons 5

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Despite a number of players still away at university or unavailable, we were thrilled to get some of our core squad back on the pitch this weekend. With a little help from TJ’s, who generously lent us a few players to even the sides at 13 each—we enjoyed a fantastic, good natured match played in true rugby spirit.

From the first whistle, the team showed flashes of flair and creativity, especially when we had ball in hand. We asked serious questions of TJ’s defence and managed to carve out some exciting attacking moments. Special mention to Lawrence Frattaroli, who marked his final game before heading off to university with a well earned try an emotional and fitting send-off.

Our front rowers impressed with some inventive play making, and once again, the scrum proved to be a reliable platform, solid and promising as we look ahead to future fixtures. While TJ’s blend of academy talent and seasoned veterans gave them the edge in possession and control, our side showed resilience and plenty of potential.

A huge shout-out to James Limmer for an exceptional performance throughout the match, and congratulations to Craig Fuller, deservedly named Player of the Match for his outstanding contribution.

There’s lots to build on, and even more to be proud of. The energy, camaraderie, and commitment on display were everything we love about the game.

Match Report: Zingari 75 Lordswood 2’s 28

Posted on | by Becca Williams

By Colin Scurr

The Zingari opened their seasons account with an emphatic win against an inexperienced Lordswood side, despite the final scoreline Lordswood showed resilience making Canterbury fight for every point. From the kick off the Zingari had Lordswood pined on their own line before Brad Alchurch making another return after taking a season out, burst his way over the line under the posts for the following simple conversion. The Zingari kept up the pressure with a kick and chase picked up by Henry Collins touching down near the posts for the following conversion, and twenty minutes into the half Ollie Simpson showed his pace outstripping the defence to score out wide. Within two minutes the city side struck again with Henrey Collins breaking the defensive line for another converted try. This was followed a few minutes later with the ball traveling down the line to find wing Piers Weigh making his first appearance at senior rugby scoring with a try out wide with the following conversion. Lordswood could have folded, but after period of scrappy play broke the city defence with a converted try of their own, however the Zingari had the last word of the half with another Brad Alchurch converted try, and with the bonus of Rob Horan slotting the conversions Canterbury a substantial halftime lead.

 

The second half started much the same this time Ollie Simpson picking his way through adding to his tally with another converted try, if Canterbury thought it was all over, they were in for a check as Lordswood although not so good in the loose had done well at the set piece took advantage, and ten minutes into the half  snatched back a converted try. The Zingari soon struck back with another try,  but were coming under pressure from that Lords wood set piece, only a wild pass from Lordswood allowed Jonny Gaynor the interception to go the length of the field to touch down. Again, Lordswood would not lay down and after some missed tackles

Lordswood snatched another try back. With the match going into the last quarter the Zingari hit back in the thirty-eight minutes with a ollie Simpson hat trick followed by another Jonny Gaynor try and his hat trick. However, with the game now well into injury time Lordswood refused to give up snatching a deserved consolation converted try with the last play.

Match Report: Horsham 41 Pilgrims 25

Posted on | by Becca Williams

The Pilgrims travelled away to Horsham for their first away day in Regional 2 and were left frustrated as errors once again proved costly at this level.
They started brightly and exerted early pressure but this was quickly undone when a speculative kick in behind from Horsham was allowed to bounce and Horsham were 7-0 up after five minutes.

The city side regrouped and a series of well worked phases fashioned 2 kickable penalty opportunities which Olly Ashley-Jones slotted to bring the score back to 7-6 before Horsham added their 2nd try after poor pilgrims tackling allowed them to dot down beside the posts. 14-6.
The Pilgrims responded positively again and Horsham’s repeated attempts to slow the ball down at the breakdown saw them reduced to 14 men. A fine break from Al Evans was well supported by scrum half Lloyd who took a short pass and raced away to score under the posts 14-13.

An injury to centre Mitch Fielder saw Ed Thompson introduced and the back line reshuffled, and before they could settle more missed tackles created space out wide for Horsham to score and take the score to 19-13.
Pilgrims were looking dangerous on attack as they looked for an instant reply, but poor handling in midfield saw the ball spilled, Horsham reacted quickest to gather the loose ball and they added their 4th try to take the half time score to 24-13.

The pilgrims looked threatening as they began the 2nd half on the front foot with a series of strong carries and tackles by the forwards who were shading the physical contest. An injury to fullback Harvey Ingram and a yellow card for a late tackle by Tom Mackenzie made Pilgrims task more difficult and Horsham used the numerical advantage to good effect to move the ball effectively to space out wide and scored again to make it 31-13.

The pilgrims forwards then showed their desire with a series of good drives culminating in Stan Bull taking a tap penalty 5metres out and crashing over to score,31-18.

Horsham were then given another yellow card after a high shot on wing Adrian Geddes, but added a further try after another handling error allowed them to pounce and move the ball out wide to score. 36-18.

Pilgrims showed great heart to dig deep for a response and after a fine break by Stan Bull, wing Gary Jones was on hand to take the offload and score a converted try, 36-25.

Pilgrims were now firmly on the front foot and had momentum. Strong forward drives saw No.8 Al Evans power over only for the referee to not see the grounding and come back for advantage. The pilgrims then moved the ball wide and thought they had their bonus point try, only for the referee to judge the pilgrims had obstructed potential tacklers and award Horsham a pressure relieving penalty. With the clock running down, Horsham scored a well worked try to take the game away from the Pilgrims and make the final score 41-25.

Steve Brown Calls it a Day

Posted on | by Becca Williams

In all sports there comes a time when the body is tired, bruised and ready for a rest unless, of course, when we are talking about wheelchair rugby. That’s normally the starting point. But after 13 years Canterbury Hellfire’s Steve Brown has decided it’s time to hang up the wheelchair equivalent of his playing boots

Steve told us “After a lot of reflection, I have decided to step down from my role on the Canterbury Rugby Club coaching team. Having been part of the setup since 2012, this is not an easy decision at all, but with growing work commitments and a young family, I simply can’t give the time and energy that the role deserves. Too many times over the past months I’ve had to cancel last minute due to work deadlines, personal reasons and family issues, it’s not fair on anyone.

Canterbury has been a huge part of my life for more than a decade. Week in, week out, the club has given me a sense of belonging and pride that’s hard to put into words. It’s been an honour not only to coach, but to be part of the wider Canterbury family and everything it represents. Alongside Jonathan Marsh, I’m incredibly proud of what we built, and I’ll never forget the moments we’ve shared—winning leagues at home and abroad, lifting national titles, and helping create a pathway for players to go on and achieve at the very highest level.

The club has some truly fantastic players who are going to go far, and watching them grow as athletes and as people has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. In fact, I can honestly say that being part of Canterbury has made me a better person. The friendships, the lessons, and the memories will always stay with me.

Although I am stepping back from coaching, I will always carry Canterbury with me. I’ll be on the sidelines cheering the team on, and I’m still more than happy to help in any way I can if the club ever needs me.

Thank you for trusting me, supporting me, and allowing me to be part of this incredible journey since 2012. It’s been more than just rugby — it’s been family.”

We wish Steve well and thank him for all his efforts getting Hellfire to where it is today.

Pilgrims Pre Match Lunch: A Scrumptious Start to the Season

Posted on | by Becca Williams

The Pilgrims are back and they’re bringing their appetite for victory to the table, literally.

Scrum Kitchen is proud to host the Pilgrims Pre Match Lunch, a delicious gathering that sets the tone for what promises to be another triumphant year. With the Pilgrims crowned champions last season, the energy is high and the plates are full.

🍽️ The Menu

Main Course
Shepherd’s Pie with Preston Butchers Lamb Shoulder
Slow-cooked lamb shoulder from Preston Butchers, layered into a rich shepherd’s pie and served with hot buttered cabbage and leeks from Boundary Farm, Wingham.

Dessert
Baked Creamy Madagascan Vanilla Rice Pudding
A warm, velvety classic infused with real Madagascan vanilla.

Pricing

  • £13.95 for 1 course
  • £15.00 for 2 courses

📧 Reserve your seat: scrumkitchen@canterbury.rugby

This event is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of community, sport, and the enduring spirit of the Pilgrims. With support from our fantastic partners Marine Travel, Preston Butchers, and Foodari, we’re proud to kick off the season in style.

 

🔔 Stay Tuned

This is just the beginning. We’ll be regularly updating the Events Page with more matchday lunches with the Pilgrims’ journey. So bookmark the page, check back often, and come hungry, for food and for rugby.

Match Report: Canterbury 19 Tonbridge Juddians 22

Posted on | by Becca Williams

This was another promising performance from the Canterbury squad as the club builds towards the start of the National 2 East season next month.

Only a late try from National One new boys Juddians, denied the City side a victory that their hard work deserved. They suffered nothing in comparison to a team that has bolstered by heavyweight signings and in most areas were every but their equals.

At half-time they led 19-10 through tries from scrum-half Presley Farrance, full-back Luke Talbot scoring against his old club and Number Eight Tyler Oliver.

Farrance scored after eight minutes with a razor-sharp interception, Talbot put in a lovely individual break after fielding a clearance kick, while Oliver put the finish to a series of pick and goes by the Canterbury pack. Frank Reynolds converted two of the scores whilst the TJs kicker was off target with both of his side’s touchdowns.

The visitors third try came in the 55th minute and although they enjoyed a slightly better share of the possession, they could not crack the Canterbury defence again. It was a scrum error that cost the City side the game as they lost the ball three minutes from time and the visitors made it count with their fourth touchdown, this one converted.

Canterbury complete their pre-season programme on Friday evening with a visit to National One neighbours Blackheath (KO 8pm) while the Pilgrims meet Deal & Betteshanger at the Marine Travel Ground (KO 7.30pm)

Fresh Faces, Fierce Ambitions

Posted on | by Becca Williams

We’re thrilled to announce the latest addition to our rugby family as we continue building momentum ahead of preseason. With the new season on the horizon, our squad is growing stronger, deeper, and more determined than ever.

We welcome the following to the Marine Travel Ground:

  • Luke Talbot-Centre<, Harry Drane, tight head prop
  • Lewis Young, loosehead Prop
  • Charlie Barker, lock, Carter Oliver, loosehead Prop
  • Ryley Thomas, Back Row
  • Archie English, Wing

Our signings brings fresh energy, talent, and experience to the team, adding another layer of depth to an already dynamic group. From the first training session, they’ve hit the ground running, slotting in seamlessly with our current players and embracing the club culture with enthusiasm. It’s been brilliant to see how quickly the new lads have gelled with the squad. There’s a real buzz around training, and everyone’s pushing each other to be better.

With preseason fixtures just around the corner, we’re excited to see how this evolving squad performs on the pitch. The hunger is there. The chemistry is building. And the belief is stronger than ever.

 

Preseason Buzz as Canterbury Rugby Club Gears Up

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Preseason Preparation 

Canterbury’s pre-season groundwork has set the tone for an energized return to Merton Lane. After six intensive weeks of strength and conditioning at The Archbishop’s School and Kent College, players are looking forward to the second block of their preseason programme.

 

Pitch Renovations and Member Support

Thanks to our dedicated members and generous sponsors, pitch renovations have continued apace.  The work done over the summer has been vital, and the improvements promise an even better playing surface as the season unfolds.

Preseason Training Kicks Off

The full club reunion arrives on 5th August, with training venues at The Archbishop’s School and Kent College having provided  ideal facilities for our first block work. Focus now shifts to teamwork and tactical shaping back at The Club.

Senior Coaching Team Revamp

Our senior setup welcomes fresh expertise alongside stalwarts Matt Corker (Head Coach) and Alex Veale (Attack Coach):

  • Max Ganderton takes on Head of Performance role.
  • Former player Mal Graves returns to the club to Pilgrims.
  • Nathan Morris changes his role to become Senior Skills Coach.

Colts Integration into Senior Rugby

Under Colts Head Coach Cameron MacMillian, the transition pathway is stronger than ever. the colts section has become part of the senior playing group. Colts players have joined senior sessions to experience adult level intensity. Those breaking through this preseason include:

  • Alex Carter (Centre)
  • Alex Sullivan (Second Row)
  • Andrew Thomas (Hooker)
  • Ed Thompson (Centre/Back Three)
  • Harry Lloyd (Scrum Half)
  • Harvey Ingram (Utility Back)
  • Paddy Parker (Fly Half)
  • Ruben Kalonji (Blindside Flanker)

 

Women’s Section Developments

We have previously announced that Ryan Mitchell arrives as Women’s Head Coach with a clear brief: build on last season’s third-place finish in National 1 South. Ryan’s strategic vision and passion promise further elevation of our Women’s XV.

 

Scrum Kitchen Launch

Over the summer, we opened Scrum Kitchen, a flexible events venue that’s already hosting private bookings. Profits from this venture are ploughed back into club facilities. Next up: a welcome back session for coaches, hosted by our Scrum Kitchen team alongside incoming Mini & Youth Chair Ky Champion.

 

Community Section Updates

The club’s community arm evolves with Matt Pinnick stepping up as Head of Community. Replacing, Nathan Morris who will venture into Skills Coach.

 

Senior Team Preseason Fixtures

With less than two weeks until kick-off, our men’s side tests itself in four friendlies:

Game Fixture Venue Date & KO
1 Esher v Canterbury Away Saturday 16 August, 1pm
2 Canterbury v Tonbridge Juddians Home Friday 22 August, 8pm
3 Blackheath v Canterbury 1st XV Men Away Friday 29 August, 7:45pm
4 Canterbury Pilgrims v Deal & Betteshanger Lions Home Friday 29 August, 7:30pm

Please note Game 1 was originally scheduled for 3pm but has been moved to a 1pm KO.

 

Director of Rugby’s Perspective

Taff, our Director of Rugby, is under no illusions about the challenges ahead: like every other club in the league we are striving to strengthen our squad and provide continued improvement in not only the senior squad but importantly the pilgrims and canons to help drive our standards to be successful.”

 

Looking Ahead

As preseason intensity builds, watch this space for the latest news  around the senior squads. We are looking forward to the challenges ahead and the ambition is to create a successful and entertaining brand of rugby for all our members, supporters and sponsors.

 

Welcoming Ryan Mitchell as Women’s Head Coach for the 25–26 Season

Posted on | by Becca Williams

After a rocky 24–25 campaign, the women’s side showed grit and determination to finish third; a result that speaks volumes about the squad’s resilience and potential. Now, with fresh energy and a clear vision, the club is proud to announce the appointment of Ryan Mitchell as Head Coach for the 25–26 season.

🔥 Building Momentum with a Proven Leader

Ryan Mitchell brings over two decades of coaching experience, with a career that spans elite programs in both South Africa and the UK. His reputation as a culture first coach precedes him; he’s known for creating inclusive, high-performance environments where players thrive both on and off the pitch.

Ryan’s coaching philosophy is rooted in:

  • Structure and Standards: Every player knows their role and what excellence looks like.
  • Empowerment and Expression: Athletes are encouraged to make decisions, take ownership, and express themselves.
  • Connection and Culture: Success is built on trust, shared values, and consistency.

His sessions are purposeful and layered, balancing technical development with real  game decision-making. He’s not just building a team, he’s shaping a mindset.

🚀 Eyes on a Stronger Start

The 24–25 season may have had its challenges, but the team’s late surge to third place proved what’s possible. With Ryan’s leadership, we’re not just aiming to replicate that success, we’re setting our sights higher. His clear goals and player-centred approach will be key to unlocking the squad’s full potential.

As we kick off the 25–26 season, there’s a renewed sense of belief and ambition. With Ryan Mitchell at the helm, the women’s team is ready to rise, rally, and rewrite the narrative.

Lions vs Wallabies: The Test Series You Won’t Want to Miss!

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Rugby fans, mark your calendars—The British and Irish Lions prepare to face off against the Wallabies in a thrilling series of Test Matches. Whether you’re a die-hard Lions supporter or just love the roar of competitive rugby, this is your chance to witness the action, camaraderie, and sporting spirit that defines the game.

📅 Match Schedule

Here’s what’s coming up:

  • 1st Test – 19 July 2025 | Kickoff: 11:00 AM
  • 2nd Test – 26 July 2025 | Kickoff: 11:00 AM (Outside screening only)
  • 3rd Test – 2 August 2025 | Kickoff: 11:00 AM

All matches will be shown live, so bring your friends, grab a pint, and join the electric atmosphere that only Test rugby can deliver.

🍳 Fuel Up at Scrum Kitchen

Arrive early and treat yourself to a hearty breakfast at Scrum Kitchen, our go-to hub for pre-match fuel. Rugby and a full English—it doesn’t get better than this.

👉 Book your table in advance here to secure the best seats in the house.

🎉 Win Big with Our Lions Raffle!

Fancy taking home a piece of rugby legend? Enter our exclusive raffle for your chance to win a signed Huw Jones shirt. Tickets are just £10 per strip, and all proceeds go to supporting grassroots rugby programs. The raffle runs across all three Test matches—so don’t miss your shot!

Whether you’re here for the rucks, the raffles, or the rivalries, the Lions vs Wallabies Test Series promises unforgettable moments. Let’s make some noise. Let’s make some memories. See you there!