Author: Becca Williams

Kent U20s x Canterbury RFC

Posted on | by Becca Williams

We are incredibly proud to announce that four Canterbury Rugby Club players have been selected – and will all start – for Kent U20s this Sunday. This is a fantastic achievement for both the players and the club, and a clear reflection of the talent coming through at Canterbury.

Canterbury Representation in the Kent U20s Squad are as follows;

  • Alex Smith- starting at prop
  • Aidan Demery- starting at hooker
  • Isaac Divine- starting at openside flanker
  • Brett Smith- starting at inside centre

All four have earned their places through relentless hard work, dedication, and consistent performances in the black and amber. Being named in the starting XV at county level is no small feat, and it speaks volumes about their commitment to developing their game.

Match Details

The Kent U20s will take on Hampshire this Sunday at Ashford Rugby Club, with a 2pm kick-off. We encourage anyone who can make the trip to come along and show their support as our players represent both club and county with pride.

A Moment to Be Proud Of

This selection is a major milestone in each player’s rugby journey and highlights the strength of the Canterbury pathway in preparing players for county honours. Everyone at the club is immensely proud of Alex, Aidan, Isaac and Brett, and we look forward to watching them take this next step.

Best of luck to all four players, Canterbury is right behind you.

Canterbury Hold Off Jersey

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Canterbury Hold Off Jersey in Thrilling 32–27 Home Victory

 

Written by Amber Waitimas

 

Canterbury secured an exciting 32–27 victory at home against Jersey in a closely contested match that showcased the team’s resilience, discipline and attacking flair.

Canterbury started strongly, dominating the early exchanges with good territory and possession.

 

However, mistakes inside Jersey’s 22 allowed the visitors to counter-attack and score against the run of play. Jersey’s quick ball from the back of the ruck and powerful ball carriers continued to test Canterbury’s defence, but determined efforts kept them out on many occasions. Some outstanding tackles from Lily-Inger Philpott (playing her final game before moving to Australia to continue her rugby journey), Inger Philpot and Emma Alleyne highlighted the defensive grit shown throughout the game.

 

Jersey were quick to capitalise when Canterbury’s defensive line became momentarily disorganised, but the home side soon regained their structure and composure, putting into practice the hard work done on the training pitch. Once settled, Canterbury began to find gaps in Jersey’s defence through the pace and agility of Lily-Inger Philpott and El Crowe.

 

Canterbury’s opening try came from a well-executed line-out move straight from the training ground. Clean ball from the set piece allowed the forwards to set the platform before one phase created the opportunity for Lily-Inger Philpott to spot a gap and power over the line.

 

Shortly before Canterbury’s second try, Jersey were shown a yellow card which left them temporarily down to 14 players. The backs were quick to recognise the extra space and capitalised on the advantage, moving the ball well through the line before eventually sending Lola Yuille Clough down the wing to score. Just a few minutes later, Jersey were shown a second yellow card, giving Canterbury a further advantage as the pressure continued to build.

 

Robyn Gulley delivered a standout performance, scoring a hat-trick of tries and converting one of her own scores. Once Canterbury found their rhythm, Gulley controlled the game excellently. Her decision making was key, with well-placed kicks turning Jersey deep into their own half and putting them under pressure to exit. Crucially, her decision to take points from a penalty gave Canterbury the five-point cushion that ultimately secured the win.

 

Across the pitch there were strong individual contributions. Alice Hayward and Lola Yuille Clough were excellent in defence on the wings, shutting down Jersey’s attacks out wide. Lizzie Deverson also impressed with several strong carries and was consistently on hand in support to keep the attack moving.

 

The impact from the bench proved vital, with the replacements bringing fresh energy and momentum at key moments. Mary Trimmer made a real difference when she came on, securing several important turnovers that helped swing momentum back in Canterbury’s favour. Both scrum-halves, Lydia Ticehurst and Lucy Spencer, also controlled the game very well, delivering quick ball from the rucks and keeping the tempo high when it mattered most.

 

The forwards also saw a noticeable improvement at the set piece as the game went on. Fresh legs in the front row and second row made a real impact, with Canterbury’s scrum becoming a much stronger platform in the later stages of the match.

 

From 1 to 22 it was a complete team performance, with every player contributing to the result.

 

As the match drew to a close, Jersey continued to push, but Canterbury held firm. The final play saw a crucial try-saving tackle from Robyn Gulley to seal the victory and secure the win.

 

Credit must also go to Jersey, who fought hard throughout. Their scrum and maul provided a strong platform and their quick ball movement kept Canterbury under pressure until the final whistle.

 

Forward of the Match went to Lizzie Deverson for her powerful carries and tireless work rate, while Robyn Gulley was named Back of the Match after a commanding performance that included a hat-trick and excellent game management.

 

In the end, Canterbury’s composure, teamwork and determination saw them come away with a deserved 32–27 win.

 

L Deverson, I Philpott. C Bernthal, E Rowe, E Alleyne, L Relf (c), L Philpott, E Crowe, L Ticehurst, R Gulley, A Hayward, L Little, E Kent, L Yuille-Clough, E Moriarty (vc) R: M Rhodes, R Betteridge, A Waitimas, M Trimmer, A Scarpulla, L Spencer, T Febrey

Sittingbourne stun, Deacons devastated.

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Deacons vs Sittingbourne 2’s Match Report

Deacons 12- 48 Sittingbourne

Sittingbourne stun, Deacons devastated.

 

The urge to get back on the pitch after a month without any rugby was clear.

With both of our community rugby sides down to play at home there was a worry we might be stretched for players although it turned out to be the opposite & we readied a full squad made up of the C4 CCCU boys, UKC cohort, Gam Esan joining us from Colts for his first senior game, regular Deacons & recent recruit Alasdair Kite – new to the team, but not the game!

 

On paper and in practise the squad was one of the strongest teams we’ve fielded in a while & we know Sittingbourne are a fiercely competitive and very well trained squad who like to turn up when we play them.

 

The first 10 minutes was an arm wrestle. With both sides making advances and defending well. Deacons trying to shut down the space quickly to avoid the Sittingbourne forwards building momentum, and in reply moving the ball wide in attack.

Once again the different Deacons line up took some time to gel having not all played together before, meanwhile Sittingbourne’s set plays and movements with the ball in hand looked straight off the training pitch.

The away side drew first blood with a converted try, a chance to gather breath and reset for us. It wasn’t bad, just a couple of things that needed tidying up & we’d be straight back in the game. That was the plan anyway…..

 

The next 25 minutes or so were really tough to swallow. When we got close to the Sittingbourne try line we couldn’t turn it into points, when we should’ve been clear and in, the referee called us back for some bizarre calls & getting past Sittingbournes defences was like pushing cooked spaghetti through a marshmallow. Lots of effort for little reward.

On the other side, the visitors were enjoying having been smiled upon by fortune, with the official not seemingly in a position to see various knock on’s, offsides and off feet infringements the run of play quickly went Bournes way with the Deacons struggling to gain and maintain any sort of possession.

We ended the first half at 0-29, more than a little shell shocked having conceded a couple of really soft tries in the run up.

 

Halftime Haribo, subs on and some spirited words from Limmer (available for motivational speaking roles from May).

It would be a monumental challenge to come back against such experienced opponents but the boys were revved up and ready to take it to the visitors as the second half began.

 

Almost instantly from kick off the City team went at it. Moving the ball around effectively and releasing Gam Esan to score (on his debut) using his phenomenal pace – we’re hoping to keep him away from the other sides in the club but I’m sure he’ll be playing further up the club before long.

Dan Head returned to the fold to kick the extras and we were off the mark after an excruciating wait.

The second half settled down with much of the match going the way of the first half. Even when Bourne had suffered a yellow we didn’t manage to capitalise. They were able to tot up some more points getting across the try line regularly.

 

With just under 10 to go, after sustained pressure Canterbury went over the white wash once more courtesy of Will Wheeler Edwards, returning to rugby and to form after some time away.

Spirits were still high & the Deacons were still playing hard. Terrell was carrying well and devastating through the middle. Millsy steadied up the second half scrum & Hayden Prett was almighty across the pitch for the full 80.

With 4 minutes left it looked as if we were going to get over again & reliably, almost habitually something changed which saw a penalty awarded against us.

Sittingbourne capitalised with their final try of the game ending a high scoring 2nd half 12-48. Not representative of the almighty efforts of the Deacons it was a really painful defeat for a side who have experienced more than their fair share this season.

Notwithstanding the 21 points gifted to them, Sittingbourne showed us how well organised and experienced they are & the importance of not missing tackles.

 

On a different note – Sittingbourne fielded a team with a father playing with 2 of his sons.

Congratulations to the Duffield men – absolute quality and we are pleased to share in your achievements. Well done boys, fantastic you could share the pitch together.

 

Hayden Prett was out POTM and he left with a Chicken Fajita pot noodle for all of his efforts.

And an honorable mention to Alasdair Kite who had an immense game having recently joined us. Can’t wait to have him back again.

 

We’re away to Deal on the 21st March, 4 games remain of the season to end it on a high.

 

We go again 💪

The Canons made it back to back wins

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Old Gravesendians 22-37 Canons

The Canons made it back to back wins and jumped up to 6th in the Counties 3 table with a dominant win away at Old Gravesendians.

 

The gradient of the pitch at OGs made the slope on the main pitch at the MTG look like a bowling green in comparison, and playing up the hill(/mountain) in the first half, the Canons knew that they were in for a battle before they would have the advantage themselves.  OGs were the bigger and heavier side, and used their advantage immediately to power over from close range.   A short while later, the Canons added their own points with a Henry Carruthers penalty to close the gap.  As they started to play more freely, the Canons started to regularly work their way into the OGs half, and with 15 minutes gone, crossed the whitewash through Will Rayner.  Carruthers added the extras as the Canons took a 3-point lead. OGs crossed for an unconverted try from a 5m scrum before the Canons regained the lead through a long-range penalty from 45m out by Josh Lamb – impressive, given the kick was up the hill.  A well worked set play from an attacking scrum allowed Will Rayner to cross under the posts for his second try, before a response from OGs as they grabbed a third try down the right, but again failed to convert. Mark Stone crossed from a tap and go penalty to give the Canons a 25-17 lead at half time.

 

The second half started brightly, a superb interplay between forwards James Everatt, Freddie Philpott and Jake Forrest allowed the latter to crash through and secure a try scoring bonus point for the away side.  For the next quarter, the game reached a period of stalemate, with both teams defending well and forcing errors from the opposition.  It was only after some Henry Carruthers magic that the deadlock was broken.  From a Canons lineout in their own 22, Carruthers spotted a gap in the defence and broke past 4 OGs defenders.  After stepping the last defender, it looked as though he would go all the way, only for a last ditch tap tackle to deny him.  From the floor, he offloaded to Kel Katta, who scored in the corner.  OGs managed to score their own fourth try in the last play of the game for a try bonus, but the Canons had won the afternoon, bringing 5 points back to the MTG on Shorty’s funbus.

 

There were some superb performances during the match, including Henry Carruthers at fly half, and Jake Forrest at number 8, but the 2 players of the match go to Izaak Guck and Harry Crowley – both colts who were playing in their first game of senior rugby.  Both stepped up and pushed the team forward, and helped to lay the platform for Canterbury to get the win.

 

The Canons have a break week, before back-to-back home games against Brockleians and Gravesend 2s.  Having lost in the last play of the game against Brockleians earlier in the season, the Canons will be looking to maintain their form to seek revenge and make it a hat trick of consecutive wins.

Pilgrims Match Report v Old Colfeians

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Old Colfeians 45
Pilgrims 7

The Pilgrims travelled to old Colfeians having beaten them at the MTG in a high scoring encounter earlier in the season, but knowing they are very good set piece oriented side not to be underestimated. The early exchanges show cased both sides intent- Colfeians looking to maul and scrummage at every opportunity and the pilgrims looking to attack through their pacey backline.
With the early exchanges suggesting it would be an even encounter, the pilgrims looked to gain the upper hand when the colf’s fullback was given a yellow card for 2 high tackles in quick succession, but it was colf’s who opened the scoring- mauling effectively from a lineout to power over from close range which was well converted from out wide. The pilgrims attacking impetus was dealt a blow shortly after when scrum half Fin Mason-Myers was forced from the field with a dislocated shoulder before Prop Dan Gill was yellow carded for a breakdown infringement when defending the try line. The scrum which had parity at that point, was then a man down which allowed Colfeians to drive over from 5m out and extend their lead to 14-0.
The pilgrims looked dangerous when moving the ball wide at pace, but a combination of poor decision making and good Colfeians defence meant their attacks came to nothing. A second 5 m scrum resulted in a second pushover try out wide to give Colfeians a 19-0 lead. The pilgrims then looked to apply sustained pressure before half time and got themselves on the score board when Hilton and Constant combined to send Owain Collins over when he cut a powerful line to score, with Hilton converting 19-7. On the stroke of half time Collins intercepted a colf’s pass with an open field ahead of him but the referee ruled the pilgrims defence were offside. Colfeians kicked to the corner and despite good pressure at the lineout, the loose ball was picked up by Colfeians who powered over from close range to make it 24-7.
The second half unfolded in a similar vein to the first with Pilgrims’ showing lots of intent to move the ball, but good defence and trying to force the final pass prevented pilgrims from adding to their score. Each side received a yellow card with Max Campbell sin binned while defending the pilgrims try line and Colfeians flyhalf given his marching orders for the same offence at the other end. Colf’s were more clinical and added another driving maul try followed up by another scrum driven over from 5m out by the big Colfeians pack. As the clock ticked down they added arguably the try of the day where they moved the ball wide to score in the corner and give them a 45-7 win. The Colfeians captain agreed the scoreline flattered the home side and didn’t reflect what was a much more even contest, but ultimately it was a day in which the city side threw a number of big punches but failed to find the target. Next week the Pilgrims return to the MTG and host joint table toppers Sidcup in what promises to be another hard hitting encounter.

Team:
A. Smith,Bull,Gill,Nicholson,Hunt,McKenzie, Devine, McCormack, Mason-Myers,English, Constant,Collins,Fielder,Campbell,Everatt, Ingram, Philpott.

Deacons winter of discontent finishes on a high. Young guns having some fun……

Posted on | by Becca Williams

Deacons vs Whitstable 2’s Away

Deacons winter of discontent finishes on a high. Young guns having some fun……

After a month without any on pitch action the Deacons ventured to Whitstable. A heavy home defeat early in the season and a really tough January playing the top 3 sides didn’t dampen our spirits.

We welcomed some new talent from UKC, prop Nigel Joseph and Jake Vovell at 10, some old talent returning from injury, Freddie Vion & Jake Beesley keeping the bench suitably warm, and Zingari talisman Leon Goode being every bit his namesake starting in the second row.

Returning from injury CCCU’s Brad Nicholson’s led another uncustomary Deacons set up, Ed Exley moving to the centres allowing Kirk Taylor another start on the wing.

Whitstable started fast but Canterbury defended well repelling the advances of the boys in blue who are well drilled and train regularly. The Deacons held their ground and tackled well organising themselves around the breakdown to great effect.
After a sustained period under pressure Whitstable struck first scoring and converting giving the home side the lead. Before long they added to their tally, a strong runner slipping out of some tackles to get across the line.

The quality of rugby was good, the Deacons were soon inside the home teams 22, testing their defence and moving the ball effectively. Just as it seemed a try was inevitable the tables turned and a penalty against the Deacons saw Whitstable kick to the corner, 10 metres out they threw their pack into a maul, driving over the line. A missed conversion saw the score at 19 – 0, the boys had worked hard but had nothing to show for it, yet.

Jake Vovell’s restarts were on the money. High and deep into Whitstable’s territory, some excellent chasing from Ed Exley, Kirk Taylor and Josh Pinnick pinning them down and not allowing a counter attack.
Not to be outdone, the forwards made some devastating runs, owning the collisions and working well on the floor.
Ronnie West had an extra weetabix for breakfast and punched powerfully through tackles. The big Skipper, Nigel & Reuben Kerr linked up to support Sam Roud at 9 and give him options at the breakdown while Leon Goode and Craig Marsh cleared out rucks relentlessly. Piers Weigh had an outstanding game, demonstrating his tackling prowess despite some dubious officiating when he was tip tackled.

Carter Jeffreys was the first to get across the line, running a lovely line picking off a couple of defenders and powering in, he’s really taken to senior rugby & is growing in confidence with every game he plays, the hard work being rewarded with his first senior try.
Jake V added the extras and half time arrived with the scoreline looking healthier at 19-7, Haribo, substitutes and some encouragement from the sideline was on hand – the momentum was shifting in our favour.

The second half begun with all to play for. The Deacons had their tales up, there was lots of positive play & the changes at half time injected more urgency, James Read & Jake Beesley with fresh legs causing chaos all over the pitch.
After some loose ball handling by Whitstable, Kirk Taylor pounced and used his footwork, power and pace to dot the ball down (also his first senior try) as we edged closer to our opponents.
Desperate to take the wind out of our sails the home side replied, scoring not once but twice, converting 1 to take them back into a commanding lead at 36 – 12.

The Deacons weren’t finished yet. Whitstable had learned not to kick the ball to Rob Horan at fullback early in the first half, and he showed them there was still life in the old dog picking up the ball using his footballing skills and scoring in the corner.
With a couple of players back on but out of position through injury & subs Freddie Vion & Steve Rutt having an impact (especially at scrum time) it was looking increasingly difficult to hold the home team at bay.

Whitstable tried to finish with a flourish only to run into James Read stripping the ball on his own try line before kicking an inspired 50/22 after a few more phases of play.
Going quickly and catching the opposition napping the forwards went to work running the ball hard towards to try line. After some great control and a number of passes the ball hit James as he flew across the line setting up an easy kick for Rob Horan to slot for the extras.

Full time whistle went at 36 -24.
Although not a win for the Deacons, it was a victory. To challenge as we did with a number of players new to the team, with little time together against a strong Whitstable set up is outstanding.

MOTM – Ed Exley

Back next week at home to Sittingbourne 2’s. Another challenge we’ll be looking to carry this week’s momentum into.

Lastly – one of our Deacons Development Pathway alumni broke a collarbone representing North Petherton in the Somerset leagues on Saturday. Speedy recovery Reilly!

Canons Dominant Display

Posted on | by Becca Williams

The Canons bounced back from defeat with a dominant 84-17 victory against New Ash Green.

Dominant outsider there were hat tricks from Mark Stone and Ollie Jeffery, as well as further scores from Herbie Bowler, Will Rayner, Ben Jones, Limmer and Ed Reid, Jake Forrest and Henry Carruthers Canterbury had scored 50 by half time in a free flowing first half. Concentration lapsed somewhere after the break as New Ash Green grabbed 3 scores of their own before the home side rallied, including Flanker Ben Jones half way line effort.

The Canons travel to Old Gravesendians this weekend, in a bid back up their victory and show that they are not just home game heroes.

Mud, Moments and Margins at Hove Women

Posted on | by Becca Williams

By Amber Waitimas

17-10

On a muddy, rain-soaked afternoon, it was always going to be a test of composure and physicality. The heavy conditions made expansive rugby difficult, but the squad adapted well and delivered a determined, competitive performance from start to finish.

The forwards laid a strong foundation, working tirelessly in the tight exchanges and holding their own at scrum time. Emma Alleyne and Ellie Rowe combined excellently in the second row, consistently making powerful carries and helping to organise and control the defensive line. Their work rate and physical presence were key throughout. Meghan Rhodes also made a huge impression on her debut, smashing into contact with some excellent carries and showing real dominance in the scrum.

The impact from our forward replacements was also clear to see. Fresh legs brought renewed energy at important stages of the match, and they carried with purpose and defended with real intent. The challenging conditions did not faze them, and their contribution ensured we maintained momentum and intensity across the game.

Despite the slippery ball and heavy ground, there were still bright moments in attack. Lola Yuille-Clough was a constant threat throughout, somehow making running in what felt like a mud pit look easy. One of her powerful breaks resulted in a well earned try, and she later came agonisingly close to adding a second, only to be tackled into touch near the line. Emily Kent, Lily Philpott and El Crowe also made strong breaks, showing determination to create opportunities whenever space appeared.

Another highlight came from a well worked team move following a penalty on the five metre line. The squad showed great composure and accuracy in executing the phase play, creating the space for Alice Hayward to cross the line for a deserved try.

In defence, Emily Moriarty produced several outstanding try saving tackles that proved crucial in keeping the contest tight. Those moments of commitment and awareness made a significant difference.

Overall, it was a very good, closely fought game that could have gone either way. The opposition perhaps adapted slightly better to the conditions and the referee on the day, and the style of play suited their squad marginally more. Nonetheless, there is plenty to be proud of in what was a resilient, upbeat and committed team performance.

Thinking About Starting? Here’s The best way to do it.

Posted on | by Becca Williams

If you’ve been following us for a while but haven’t taken the first step yet — this is for you.

 We’ve recently opened our new location at Canterbury Rugby Club, and the way we help people get started is intentional.

 We don’t do random drop-ins.

We don’t throw new members straight into busy group sessions.

 Instead, everyone begins with our 6-Week Foundations Programme.

 

This is for people who:

• Don’t want to feel behind

• Want proper coaching from day one

• Are ready to build consistency

 

You’ll train 3 times per week in a small group (maximum 8 people).

 

Clear weekly progression.

Structured sessions.

Coaching support throughout.

 

The investment is £175 for the full 6 weeks.

 

After completing Foundations, members move into our ongoing coaching membership at £100 per month (rolling).

 

Our next intake begins 23 March.

We open just 8 spaces every 6 weeks.

 

If you’ve been thinking about starting, this is the right way to do it.

 

Secure your place here:

https://goteamup.com/p/12396993-top-to-toe-fitness-canter/memberships/265922/

 

 

If you’re unsure whether it’s right for you, get in touch and we’ll point you in the right direction.

 

Charlotte

07949222967

Charlotte.shaw81@icloud.com

Six Nations Screening at Canterbury RFC This Weekend

Posted on | by Becca Williams

The Six Nations is back for another huge weekend of rugby, and the best place to watch every moment is right here at Canterbury Rugby Club. The clubhouse will be open, the screens will be on, and the atmosphere will be everything you expect from a proper rugby weekend — lively, friendly, and full of passion.

Whether you’re backing England or cheering on another home nation, join us for a brilliant weekend of sport, community, and great food.

Live Rugby, Big Screens, Big Atmosphere

Across the weekend we’ll be showing all fixtures live, with:

  • Multiple big screens throughout the clubhouse
  • A family‑friendly, welcoming environment
  • The bar open throughout the games
  • Plenty of space for supporters, teammates, families, and friends

It’s matchdays done properly.

Six Nations Themed Burgers — All Weekend

Scrum Kitchen will be serving a special Six Nations themed burger menu, available for every game this weekend.
All burgers are under £10, served in brioche buns with fries, and crafted to celebrate the character of each nation.

The Italian – £9.95

Steak burger with mozzarella, tomato, and pesto mayonnaise.
Flair, freshness, and a touch of Roman sunshine.

The French – £9.95

Steak burger with Brie, bacon, and Dijon mustard.
Rich, indulgent, and unapologetically bold.

The Irish – £9.95

Steak burger with Cashel blue cheese, rainbow slaw, and a golden onion ring.
Depth, colour, and a little luck.

The Scottish – £9.95

Steak burger topped with haggis and sweet fried onions.
Hard‑working, uncompromising, and full of character.

The Welsh – £9.95

Veggie burger with sautéed leeks and Caerphilly cheese.
Proud, passionate, and rooted in tradition.

The English – £9.95

Steak burger with mature Cheddar, bacon, fried onions, and English mustard mayo.
Solid, powerful, and built for the long game.

The Neutral – £7.95

Steak burger, plain or with cheese.
For those here for the rugby, not the rivalry.

All burgers available at every game — what’s your flavour?

Rugby – Food – Community

This is what the Clubhouse does best.
Great rugby on the screens, proper food from Scrum Kitchen, and the chance to enjoy the Six Nations with the people who make this club special.

Bring your colours, bring your voice, and make Canterbury RFC your home for the Six Nations this weekend.