Canterbury Hold Off Jersey

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