Canterbury U16s delivered a performance to remember this weekend, stepping onto the pitch with everything at stake, and rising to the occasion in spectacular fashion. In a commanding 38–5 win over Tunbridge Wells, the squad didn’t just secure another result…
🏆 They sealed the 2026 Championship title. 🏆
From the opening whistle, Canterbury set the tone with relentless pressure, disciplined structure, and an intensity that Tunbridge Wells struggled to match. Every player contributed to a display filled with heart, grit, and composure far beyond their years.
By the time the final try was grounded, the scoreboard told the story: a dominant Canterbury side, muddy, exhausted, but smiling from ear to ear, the unmistakable look of champions.
A Triumph Months in the Making
This victory represents far more than 70 minutes of rugby excellence. It is the result of:
• Months of hard training
• Unwavering discipline and commitment
• A squad that plays for each other
• Dedicated coaches shaping and supporting development
• Parents and volunteers who make every match day possible
Together, this community built something special, and today, it all came to life on the pitch.
💛🖤 Congratulations to the Canterbury U16s: 2026 Champions!💛🖤
The scoring opened after 20 minutes when Alfie crossed for the first try, slinking through muddy hands as no one could bring him down,
setting the tone for the afternoon. Six minutes later Axel powered his way over, a try built on sheer strength, aggression and hand-offs that underlined the forwards’ intent. Isaac added the conversion at 27 minutes to extend the lead further.
This team has earned a moment they will carry with them forever. Their performance, their unity, and their spirit have set a standard for the club and created memories that will stay with players, coaches, and supporters alike.
Well done, Canterbury. What a journey. What a team. What a finish.
The Match Report:
This final Kent County League fixture of the U16 season came with everything on the line, with victory required to secure the Championship. The squad responded in emphatic fashion, producing a dominant all-round performance to close the campaign in style.
From there, the Canterbury backs began to shine. Oscar finished a sharp move at pace beating 3 attempted tacklers on 30 minutes, before Isaac followed it up with another conversion. The interplay, speed and precision in the wider channels caused constant problems for the opposition defence.
Early in the second half, Will D produced one of the standout moments of the match, finishing brilliantly in the corner. Hugging the touchline, he showed great pace and control to run it in under pressure.
Oscar then added his second try, continuing a strong attacking display with a great mix of strength and speed.
At 36–0, Happy crashed over for a superb try that perfectly summed up his game after Alex had crashed through the mainline toward the Try line — all power, aggression and refusal to be stopped. Isaac was again reliable from the tee, adding further conversions to keep the scoreboard ticking.
Although the opposition managed a late consolation score, it did nothing to take the shine off a commanding 38–5 victory.
A fitting performance in the final league game, securing the Kent County League Championship (back to back, as they were the U15 champions also) and marking an outstanding U16 season.
Sunday 4th April saw laughter and infectious energy at the club’s final Mini and Youth event of the season. It was a morning packed with excitement, fun, and unforgettable moments as players, parents, and coaches came together to celebrate the young athletes and their dedication throughout the year.
