Canterbury Triumph in Hard-Fought Community Cup Clash

Match Report: Canterbury Women’s XV vs Beckenham 1XV

Papa Johns Community Cup
Final Score: Canterbury 17 – 15 Beckenham

By Amber Waitimas

Canterbury Women’s XV kicked off their Papa Johns Community Cup campaign in thrilling fashion with a hard-fought 17–15 victory over a strong Beckenham 1XV side.

From the opening whistle, both teams showed real intent, and it was Beckenham who struck first, crossing the try line to take an early lead. But Canterbury responded in style, as a jackaled ball and quick pop pass saw Kate Rutherford (#10) burst over the line for the home side’s opening try, before confidently converting her own score to level things up.

From there, Canterbury demonstrated composure and control through standout performances across the park. The back row trio of Lucy Relf, Lily Philpott, and El Crowe worked beautifully in tandem, showing a dynamic mix of power, pace, and relentless tackling that kept Beckenham under pressure all game.

Emma Alleye (#4) led from the front, setting the tone with her trademark big hits and commanding the forward pack superbly. She was deservedly named Forward of the Match for her tireless work and leadership.

In attack, the props, Lizzie Deverson and Alex Mills, were relentless, making a series of strong, powerful carries that gained valuable territory and set the platform for Canterbury’s next scores. Their dominance at the scrum and work rate around the park gave the side real momentum.

El Crowe (#13) added her name to the scoresheet in the second half, showing great pace and determination to cross the line and extend Canterbury’s advantage.

The backs continued to impress, combining sharp handling with confident decision-making to keep Beckenham on the back foot and open up attacking opportunities across the field.

Later in the half, Kate Rutherford crossed for her second try of the day, the result of a patient and well-executed series of pick-and-go phases from the forwards right on the try line.

Defensively, Canterbury showed huge determination and resilience, holding up two Beckenham tries and keeping their composure under sustained pressure. Emily Kent and Lola Yuille-Clough stood out in the backs, showing excellent communication and control to organise the defensive line at key moments.

Debutant Lydia Ticehurst (#22) made an immediate impact off the bench, bringing fresh energy at scrum-half and earning Back of the Match honours for her sharp decision-making and quick ball distribution in the closing stages.

A gritty and well-earned win for Canterbury, built on teamwork, discipline, and belief – a strong start to their Papa Johns Community Cup journey.

Final Score:
Canterb

ury Women’s XV – 17

Beckenham 1XV – 15

Canterbury’s next home fixture is on Sunday, 9th November, when they take on Hove Women’s XV. As always, all supporters are very welcome to come down and cheer the team on!