Author: Becca Williams

The Canons made it 3 wins in a row with a 26-13 victory against Old Gravesendians at the MTG.

Playing into a strong wind in the first half, the Canons spent the opening passages defending in their own half as OGs dominated possession.  The Canons held firm, with Joel Poulter leading the defensive charge, and midway through the half found a break through, with number 8 Jake Forrest scoring from short range following good work from the forwards.  Gravesendians responded however, scoring 2 unconverted tried in the lead up to half time to lead 10-5 at the break.

Following tactical changes at half time, and playing with the wind behind them, it didn’t take long for the Canons to cross the whitewash again, with replacem

ent prop Lennie West crashing over from short range. The extras were added by fly half Liam Browne.  From the restart, OGs pressure led to a number of infringements from Canterbury, allowing them to take the lead from the tee after a penalty in front of the posts – OGS advantage 13-12.  As the game entered the final quarter, and although the light faded, the Canons remained bright, with second converted scores for each of Forrest and West securing the bonus point and a win for the Canons.

It was a pleasing display for the Canons coaches, with the whole squad knowing that there is more for this team to give. The Canons have a big opportunity to carry on their run of form against Brockleians next week.

By Amber Waitimas

Jersey Women 14- 7 Canterbury Women 1st XV

It was an early start for the Canterbury Women as they set off bright and early to catch their flight to Jersey for a much-anticipated away fixture. Unfortunately, the island welcomed them with testing conditions: driving rain and strong winds made it clear from the outset that this was going to be a hard-fought contest.

With a double header scheduled alongside the Jersey Men’s fixture, the Canterbury Women showed great spirit by supporting the match before their own.

Canterbury travelled without their usual co-captain pairing due to injury, but leadership shone through regardless. Claire Bernthal and Emily Moriarty stepped up brilliantly on game day, providing calm guidance and essential support for the squad.

Once they took to the field, the challenging weather did little to shake their composure. The forwards carried hard, the handling was impressively clean given the conditions, and the lineout unit excelled, securing their own ball and stealing several from Jersey.

The match also saw the welcome return of Canterbury players Mimi Jupe (Team Manager) and Rebecca Sheene, whose impact off the bench was immediately felt. Across the pitch, players put their bodies on the line, demonstrating grit and determination throughout the contest.

Defensively, Canterbury were immense. Lily Philpott was relentless, making tackle after tackle and helping keep Jersey under constant pressure. Forward of the Match, Ellie Rowe, was a standout force in the pack, while Back of the Match, Emily Moriarty, making her first appearance at fly-half, showed excellent game management in difficult conditions.

Jersey opened the scoring with a well-taken try on the wing, which they successfully converted. Canterbury responded swiftly: after sustained pressure in Jersey’s half, a powerful team effort paved the way for Number 8 El Crowe to crash over the line. Layla Little added the extras to level the score at 7–7.

Canterbury continued to dominate territory, spending long spells inside the Jersey half. However, just before the break, Jersey capitalised on an overlap out wide to score their second try, taking the lead at halftime.

The second half showcased determined rugby from both sides. Canterbury repeatedly battled their way inside five metres of the Jersey line, but the hosts defended fiercely, denying any further points. Despite the weather and the physicality of the match, the game was played with tremendous spirit, and even featured an unexpected pitch invader in the form of a curious duck looking to join the action.

Though the result did not fall Canterbury’s way, the squad remained in high spirits and made the most of their time on the island.

Canterbury Women would like to extend their thanks to Jersey RFC for their warm hospitality, and to the Canterbury Women’s Committee for ensuring another successful away trip.

Deacons v Leigh

By Peter Demery

While the weather was damp and dull, the rugby wasn’t. Leigh arrived ready to challenge a Deacons pack that has been immovable most of the season.

Up front they were big, with strong runners & from kick off they made their presence felt.

Again it took the Deacons a period to settle into the game under sustained, relentless attacks. The defensive effort was huge and when we settled, the attacking prowess was quality.

The conditions didn’t help and the ball went loose a number of times in the first half which added to the frenetic nature of the game.

We led at half time but there was nothing in it at all.

The second half changes had an impact, although the pack still got out muscled at times with some key CCCU front row union members having a rest (or on International duty). The last 20 was key.

Deacons were behind, the changes had put fresh legs on but needed something else to raise the team.

A change to the front row & adding some more weight into the pack stopped the Leigh onslaught at scrum time. And at no.8 ‘Little Bear’ pulled out some huge hits.

As the Deacons steadily worked their way towards the try line the passion and teamwork was evident.

Going ahead it was time to manage the game in the dying minutes. Some outstanding work on the floor slowed down the Leigh counterattack after the restart before our very own Little Bear turned the ball over with the clock in the red.

Victory after a competitive game where any team could’ve taken the spoils.

The West brothers had a huge impact. The Coffin brothers were outstanding. Sam Roud showed he should be playing Deacons every week & Josh Lamb put most of the points on the board through clever running and his kicking. With a couple of Colts playing up for their first experience in senior rugby 19 Deacons played with the heart and soul we’ve come to expect from the clubs most fun, best looking team.

18 x POTM after that game.

Sittingbourne away next Saturday

From the heart of Canterbury Rugby Football Club to the heights of professional and international rugby, we couldn’t be prouder of two of our own, Lewis and Mitch, as they continue to make waves in the sport we all love.

Lewis: A Rising Star in Black & Amber

Lewis has made a brilliant start in his debut season for the black & amber, showcasing his talent, determination, and love for the game. Now, he’s set to take the next big step, his senior debut with Saracens. It’s a moment that reflects years of hard work and dedication.

As he prepares to face Harlequins today, the entire CRFC family is behind him. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey, and

 we can’t wait to see where it leads. Best of luck, Lewis, your Canterbury Family are cheering you on!

Mitch: Flying the Flag for Cyprus

Meanwhile, Mitch continues to make us proud on the international stage. A regular feature in the Cyprus national team, his commitment to representing his country is nothing short of inspiring. His passion and perseverance are a testament to the values we hold dear at Canterbury.

Two Journeys, One Shared Passion

Though their paths are different, Lewis and Mitch share a common thread, a deep-rooted love for rugby and a strong connection to Canterbury. Their achievements remind us of the power of sport to unite, inspire, and elevate.

To both players: keep flying the flag for Canterbury. We’re proud of you, and we’re with you every step of the way.

Pilgrims 57

Old Colfeians 41

After back to back victories the Pilgrims welcomed old Colfeians to the MTG looking to go into a rest weekend on a high and make it 3 in a row. The city side started on the front foot and after a number of strong runs from the forwards, Number 8 Mo Pangarkar powered over next to the posts to give the pilgrims a deserved 7-0 lead.

Old Colfeians had a pack of forwards geared towards a set piece oriented game plan and they showed that when kicking their first penalty deep into the pilgrims 22 and opting for the lineout. They powered over from the resulting maul to level 7-7.

This prompted the Pilgrims to go up a gear and Tom Mackenzie was next to score when he ripped the ball in contact and raced clear to score, 14-7.

They added a 3rd from the restart when Hilton regathered his own chip kick and offloaded to the impressive Masaka who beat the cover to make it 21-7.

Winger Archie English was next to score when forwards and backs combined well to send him over out wide for the bonus point try with Hilton adding a difficult conversion. 28-7.

Colfs showed they were going to be a threat all day when their big pack scored a 2nd maul try out wide to bring the score to 28-12.

AJ Masaka then went on a powerful run after good work from Lister before he sent the supporting English over for his 2nd of the day with Hilton again converting. 35-12

Old Colfeians showed they would continue to be a threat with 2 quick fire tries before half time- the first another well constructed maul try out wide before they chipped in behind and regathered to bring the half time score to 35-24.

Pilgrims came out of the blocks quickly knowing it would be more difficult playing up the slope, with man of the match Gus Lister finishing off some fine interplay between forwards and backs to score the first of his 2 tries to make it 42-24.

Impressive centre Tom Barton was yellow carded for an accumulation of pilgrims penalties, but Hilton was able to add a penalty goal to help manage the numerical disadvantage to take the score to 45-24.

Colfs made their advantage count by adding a converted score to close the gap to 45-31 before Lister finished a fine break out by Masaka to make it 50-31.

Old Colfeians continued to look dangerous with ball in hand and added 2 further tries to cut the gap to 50-41 before Lister beat a number of defenders and sent Archie English over to complete his hattrick and bring the curtain down on an entertaining and well contested game that finished 57-41.

The Pilgrims return to action in 2weeks time when they travel to Sidcup looking to continue building momentum.

Canterbury Women’s 1XV vs Hove 1XV – Match Report

Sunday’s match at Canterbury was more than just a game; it was a celebration of women’s and girls’ rugby. The day kicked off with a fantastic open training session for the club’s Girls section, showcasing brilliant skill, smiling faces, and some fantastic numbers. The girls then formed a flag tunnel to welcome both teams onto the main pitch, before a minute’s silence was held in remembrance.

When the match began, Canterbury received the ball and immediately applied pressure. A strong run from Emily Kent put the visitors in their 22, but Hove’s defense was solid around the ruck, forcing a knock-on and giving Hove their first scrum.

Canterbury continued to threaten, with a line-out attempt for a try being held up. Hove’s kicking game tried to relieve pressure, but fullback Emily Moriarty collected the ball and passed to Lola Yuille-Clough on the wing, giving Canterbury another chance from the line-out.

Defensively, Canterbury’s back three delivered beautiful tackles, while Alice Haywards counter-rucks kept Hove under constant pressure. Kate Rutherford’s reading of the game in the backfield was exceptional, preempting kicks and turning defense into attack. Early disciplinary issues saw a yellow card for Canterbury’s second row Amber Shepherd following a high tackle, and later for Hove’s loosehead, but the team’s intensity never waned.

It wasn’t until the 36th minute that sustained Canterbury pressure resulted in a breakthrough. Player of the Match El Crowe won a penalty at the breakdown, opting for the corner. Excellent line-out work from Lily Philpott, a precise offload from Darcy McMahon and a hard line from Emily Kent set the platform for a series of pick-and-go plays. Forward of the Match Rosie Payne and prop Lizzie Deverson carried strongly, keeping Hove pinned. Canterbury’s fly-half Kate Rutherford seized a quick-tap opportunity, slicing through retreating defenders to score Canterbury’s only try, which she also converted to end the half with Canterbury in the lead.

The second half began with Canterbury in Hove’s 22, but Hove remained dangerous with strong ball carriers and clever running lines. A superb chase by Lola and relentless defense by Canterbury kept Hove at bay for much of the half. Both sides rotated replacements, bringing fresh energy, and Hove’s number 8 showed outstanding running, nearly breaking through multiple times. Scrum-half replacement Lydia Ticehurst and Ellie Desborough made crucial tackles to prevent a try.

As the game entered its closing stages, Canterbury continued to defend heroically. However, with five minutes remaining, Canterbury was shown a second yellow card, reducing Canterbury to 14 players. Despite their determination and disciplined defence, Hove eventually took advantage of the extra space. With the clock ticking down, they pieced together a series of tight carries before moving the ball wide for a well-worked try in the corner.

Throughout the match, Canterbury’s counter-rucking, strong tackling, and tactical awareness were outstanding. Highlights included the fearless tackling of returning fullback Emily Moriarty, and the expert jackling and support work from Emily Kent. The team displayed incredible cohesion, effort, and resilience until the final whistle.

A huge thank you to everyone who came out to support the day, including our team sponsors KGEN, Player of the Match sponsor Utopia Wealth, Scrum Kitchen for the fabulous post-match food, and Lilski’s Cakes for the delicious cupcakes. The players, fans, and the girls’ section made the occasion truly special.

Though the result was not what we hoped for, the Canterbury Women’s 1XV will rebuild, pull together, and go again.

Player Awards:
* Player of the Match: El Crowe, Presented by Utopia Wealth
* Forward of the Match: Rosie P
* Back of the Match: Kate Rutherford

Our next Home fixture is the second round of the Papa Johns Community Cup against Guildford Gazelles, 30th November! We’d love to welcome all the support and the girls section down to share this day with us.

Another month of 300 club winners!

Well done to the following:

Barry Hempsted

Mark Quinn

Gerry Copestake

Greg Mayne

Roger Howard

By Tom Short

It was a back to back victories for the Canons as the team achieved their first away win of the season with a 29-24 victory at New Ash Green.

Canterbury started the game well, moving the ball out wide in the opening minutes to Fady Sheta, who jinked his way through a number of defenders to score underneath the posts.  However, from this point on, the game turned into a scrappy affair, with both teams consistently infringing ang getting on the wrong side of the referee.  Both teams struggled to find consistency in attack, with numerous handling errors or the ref interfering due to foul play.  Eventually NAG broke through to level the scores.  Canterbury prop Lennie West was yellow carded for dissent, and following injury to the front row replacement, Canterbury were forced down to 13 players.  NAG took advantage and scored 2 quick tries to lead 19-7 at the break.

Kicked into life by Skipper Ben Jones and returning to a full complement of players, Canterbury finally responded with another Sheta try.  A third followed from the excellent Ollie Jeffery, and the bonus point was secured by Terrell Thomas crashing over from short range.  As the game entered its final quarter, and Canterbury were further reduced to 14 due to injury, New Ash Green pulled a third try back of their own, after having 2 efforts held up by the resolute Canons defence.  A quick break away from Jeffery led to a Fin Osborne try to give the Canons some breathing space.   In the last 10 minutes, NAG grabbed a try scoring bonus of their own, but the Canons held on for victory.  The win means the Canons sit 7^th in the Counties 3 table, with a break week next week before welcoming Old Gravesendians to the MTG.

Canterbury RFC is proud to celebrate one of our own Terrell who recently donned the national colours of Jamaica Rugby in an international fixture against Gibraltar. This milestone marks a significant achievement in Terrell’s rugby journey and reflects the dedication, talent, and character he brings to the sport.

Currently a scholar at Canterbury Christ Church University, Terrell balances his academic pursuits with his commitment to rugby at the a high level. He is an part of our senior setup, consistently demonstrating leadership, athleticism, and a deep passion for the game.

Representing Jamaica on the international stage is no small feat, and Terrell’s selection is a testament to his hard work and the support of those around him. The match against Gibraltar was a thrilling showcase of emerging talent, and Terrell’s performance stood out as a symbol of pride, not just for Jamaica, but for everyone at Canterbury RFC.

We are immensely proud of Terrell’s accomplishments and the way he continues to inspire others within our club and beyond. His journey is a shining example of what can be achieved through perseverance and community support.

Congratulations, Terrell

Old Reigatians 22
Pilgrims 39

The Pilgrims travelled away to Surrey based old Reigatians for the first time on Saturday, looking to build on their first win of the season last time out against Dartfordians.
The city side started brightly and took the lead from a Collins penalty goal after a matter minutes after Old R’s struggled to deal with Pilgrims’ speed and intentionally slowed down at a ruck. 0-3.
Owain Collins- who had a strong all round game, then turned provider as his strong run and pass set debutant winger Owen Hewett over for the first of his 4 try’s. 0-8.
Old R’s responded well and showed they would be a threat with ball in hand, moving the ball well and exploiting space out wide to score in the corner. 5-8.
Pilgrims then allowed Old R’s to level after Prop Harry Drane was penalised for a tip tackle in front of the posts which was easily converted. 8-8.
The pilgrims then started to click into gear as forwards and backs moved the ball seamlessly through the phases. Aiden Moss’ classy line break saw him glide into the back field and unselfishly pass to the supporting Hewett who dotted his 2nd under the posts making the conversion a formality. 8-15.
A great break by Gus Lister saw him beat a number of defenders before being stopped short of the line, half backs Valladares and Hilton moved the ball quickly and put the supporting Hewett in for a debut hattrick, 8-22.
The backs rewarded the forwards hard work with some exceptional handling sending The impressive Hewett over in the corner for his 4th, securing a try bonus point in the process. 8-27.
The city side added a fifth on the stroke of half time, another impressive break by Lister saw him pop to wing man Archie English to dot down and bring Pilgrims best half of rugby so far this season to a close. 8-32.
Old Reigatians could have thrown in the towel at this point, but they started the 2nd half strongly and showed they would still pose a threat if Pilgrims took their foot off the gas.
A missed tackle in midfield allowed them to get in behind the pilgrims defence and good support play saw them score under the posts to make it 15-32.
If the first half showcased their attacking abilities, the 2nd showed they were able to absorb long periods of pressure as Old R’s looked to get back in the game, helped by pilgrims own indiscipline at times.
The Pilgrims weee struggling with the inconsistent management of the game and these frustrations saw Valladares yellow carded for back chat to the referee. Pilgrims defence remained resolute and after a lineout was well won by the forwards, Hilton’s wide pass sent No. 8 Al Evans through a gap in midfield and he drew the fullback and put Ed Thompson in the clear to run in for a score his recent performances have deserved to take the score to 15-39. Shortly afterwards Hewett was also sent to the sin bin to reduce the Pilgrims to 13. Old Reigatians took advantage of their 2 man advantage to add their third try of the afternoon as the clocked ticked down to make the final score 22-39 and secure the Pilgrims a well deserved bonus point win on the road. A week off next weekend sees the Pilgrims return to action the following Saturday at the MTG against Old Colfeians.