Author: Becca Williams

Match Report: Canterbury Women’s 1XV vs Horsham – League Fixture


Posted on | by Becca Williams

Final Score: Canterbury 37 – Horsham 5

By Amber Waitimas

Canterbury Women’s 1XV opened their league campaign with a strong 37–5 win over Horsham, delivering a full team performance from start to finish.

The tone was set early on with a powerful run from debutant and Number 8 El Crowe, who crossed the line just five minutes in for the opening try. The scoring continued shortly after with a well-taken try by fly-half and co-captain Kate Rutherford, followed by efforts from prop Alex Mills and another debutant, winger Lola Yuille-Clough.

Canterbury showed solid structure throughout, executing moves from the training pitch while also adapting with some free-flowing phases. The forwards laid strong foundations with hard carrying and support play, allowing the backs to move the ball with confidence.

Horsham found a gap early in the second half and was able to convert their pressure into points with a deserved try for their afternoons hard work and efforts. However, Canterbury responded well, maintaining composure and control. Tries followed from Emily Kent, converted by Layla Little, co-captain Lucy Relf, and a second from Kent to round off the match.

Set-piece work in the second half was particularly strong, with hooker Inger Philpott winning the ball in the scrums and the pack putting in a dominant shift around the field.

Defence played a key role throughout, with Canterbury staying focused and aggressive in the tackle. Tries were well spread across both the forwards and backs, reflecting a true team effort.Forward of the Match: Lily-Inger Philpott
Back of the Match: Emily Kent
Both players stood out for their work rate and defensive contribution.

Further honours to all of our debut players this afternoon go to El Crowe, Rosie Payne, Lizzie Deverson, Ellie Rowe, Mary Trimmer and Lola Yuille-Clough. We are excited to follow their journey with us!

Canterbury’s next fixture is away at Medway on Sunday 5th October. Based on previous meetings, it promises to be a well-contested match. All supporters are welcome to come along and be part of the day.

Match Report: Gravesend 3’s v Deacons

Posted on | by Becca Williams

The mighty Deacons travelled to Gravesend and took their first win of the season in a close game of 43-41. When the boys arrived they expected to have 16 players, however travel issues and some late drop out meant that they started the game with 13 players.

Gravesend had a quick start scoring their first try within the first 5 minutes of the game. The Deacons weren’t going out without a fight. The boys defended with everything they had making hit after hit. But Gravesend weren’t letting up either. After they had scored 3 tries the boys faced another player loss due to concussion.
It wasn’t looking great for Deacons but they kept fighting. Two tries late in the first half meant that the boys stayed in the game finishing the first half with a score of 34-12 to Gravesend.

The boys knew they had their work cut out for them but were ready to leave it all on the field. The second half marked a turn around with deacons scoring quickly after kick off. But they didn’t stop there. The Deacons kept the ball in the second half fighting Gravesend with everything they had. The boys worked hard to stay in the Gravesend half and eventually were in the lead. But another injury and a yellow card meant that the deacons were now down to 10 players on the field. Gravesend seized this chance and converted their own try to make the score 41-36. The Gravesend crowd roared with excitement but the Deacons didn’t let this get to them. The Deacons answered this with their own converted try in overtime to win them the game.

MOTM – Josh Lamb for great kicks from hand and from the tee, an unrelenting effort in defence and great running with the ball

Match Report: Zingari 85 Sheppey 2’s 14

Posted on | by Becca Williams

By Colin Scurr

The Zingari swept aside Sheppey with an overwhelming display of power and handling from the kick off opening their account with a Henry Collins converted try within the first five minutes after Sheppey lost possession in their own twenty-two. This was followed with Will  Raynor bursting through a tackle touching down near the posts for the simple following conversion. Next in line was wingman Piers Weigh finishing off a move to score in the corner for both his second try in his second game at senior level, with Horan adding the conversion from the tight angel. The city side looked in control their forwards especially in the loose setting up their backs with quick ball exploited first by Will Raynor, and then by Henrey Collins with successful converted try’s. With halftime approaching the final act was Jon Foster making his first appearance for the Zingari and making sure the forwards got in on the act powered over the line for another converted try to give the city side a commanding 42-point halftime lead.

The Second half started looked its was going to be much the same with Henry Carruthers touching down out wide within minutes of the kick off, but Sheppey had other ideas using their forwards to set up position near the Canterbury line before powering over for their first converted try, however, this was soon neutralised with Will Raynor completing his hat trick. Sheppey to their credit started a fight back with their forwards leading the charge giving their backs a few more opportunities with a kick in behind the Canterbury defence that was collected for a well taken converted try. This inspired  Sheppey and they redoubled their efforts putting the city side under some pressure only to find Canterbury could defend, and as the game went into the last quarter the Zingari were back in control winning quick ball from the breakdown that started a try frenzy. First to benefit was Simon Jaynes, and Jon Foster for his second try, followed by Henry Carruthers for his hattrick. Now deep into injury time Callum Townsend Henry Carruthers completed the try tally, and along with Rob Horans accurate boot  gave the Zingari one of their best starts to the season possible.

Match Report Dartford Valley 19 Canons 14

Posted on | by Becca Williams

The Canons continue to chase their first win of the campaign as they fell to defeat against Dartford Valley.

In blustery conditions, the Canons absorbed pressure well in the first half playing into a strong wind. Knowing that they would have the advantage of the weather in the second half, the Canons restricted Dartford Valley to 2 tries, both scored from close range. 12-0 to DV at half time.

With clear instructions at half time as to how the team needed to play, the second half did not go to plan with DV scoring in the first minute from the kick off. Not deterred, the Canons fought back begin, with Liam Browne scoring the first of 3 penalty kicks 10 minutes into the half. Handling errors plagued the Canons however, which nullified any momentum that was building. In the 60th minute, Josh Lamb crossed the try line for the Canons, following some good play in the midfield. Penalties started to rack up against DV, but the Canons could not capitalise. Browne kicked his third penalty in the final play of the game to ensure the Canons scored a losing bonus point. Full time 19-14.

It was an improved performance for the Canons, who continue to settle into life in Kent Counties 3. With the next league game not until 11th October, the Canons have plenty of time to refresh themselves before facing early league leaders Sittingbourne.

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)