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Sittingbourne 2’s 50 – 7 Deacons

By the infamous Pete Demery

Sometimes maybe good, sometimes maybe sh..!

Fast charging, hard hitting Sittingbourne thwart Deacons.

Once again it took the Deacons some time to gel with lots of new players and regular players trying new positions on the pitch.
Sittingbourne were quick to capitalise, showing how effective a team that train and play together regularly can be.
Despite some valiant defensive efforts Bourne went across the try line repeatedly in the first half.
Capitalising on their strengths at scrum time, Sittingbourne had the rub of the decisions across the 80, causing havoc with their set piece play and adding to the Deacons frustrations with the penalty count.
Despite the occasional ‘interesting’ interjections from the referee, Canterbury started to gel in the second half. When we had the ball we were probing deeper into the home side’s territory & before long (after 2 disallowed) Adam Malik crossed the whitewash.
Sittingbourne kept the pressure high and looked threatening with every period of possession and were relentless in their pursuit of points.
With Steve Rutt joining the front row as a sub the scrums became stronger and more evenly contested. Dylan Coyle debuted at 9 and had a solid game. Callum Townsend stepped from the 5’s up and played brilliantly at flanker for the full 80. Adam Malik made a very welcome return to rugby and linked up with the ever present James Limmer in the forwards to offer some real momentum.
Rueben Kerr, Ronnie Wood & Brad Nicholson had a tough day in the front row but never showed any signs of giving up. Hayden Prett returned to his old club and tackled relentlessly in defense while carrying had in attack. Piers Weigh had a fantastic game on the backs nailing tackles on the wing & Matt Capper stepped into a centre role combining with Denton running attacking lines looking to release Harvey Ingram at 15, returning from injury.
We finished 50-7.
Deal next week at home. That ends our run of 4 on the bounce and we’ll have a rest.
Come and play Deacons rugby.

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.

Oxford Harlequins 19 Canterbury 42

by Chris Fullbrook

Canterbury travelled to Oxford Harlequins on the back of mixed results but managed to put that behind them with a strong performance in poor weather conditions, but with the hosts having an artificial grass pitch, the playing surface was excellent. The city side have a good history of playing on plastic pitches and after an early onslaught, Eoin O’Donoghue broke free from a routine lineout catch and drive to score the first of his side’s seven tries. With Canterbury in the ascendancy, fly half Frank Reynolds barreled over from close range but was unable to convert his own try. O’Donoghue bagged another catch and drive score before a midfield break from Jimmy Walker and a clever kick ahead from Reynolds, allowed Luke Talbot to win the chase and touchdown and Reynolds add the extras. Despite an uncharacteristic off day with the boot, Reynolds was influential elsewhere and was on the end of some good support play to register his second try which took his side into the shelter of the changing room at half time with a 27-7 lead. Oxford’s only response had been a converted try, on the 30 minute mark, from Ben Jenkins, converted by Tom Cooke. With the weather easing after the break Canterbury hoped to continue their dominance but a dropped ball and stubborn defence from the home side, who twice held up surges over the line, denied the city side. Losing both captain Jamie Stephens and O’Donoghue to injury was another factor in keeping the second half scoreless for 15 minutes. Eventually Number Eight Tyler Oliver made the breakthrough his side was looking for with a try, this time converted by Reynolds.
With Canterbury reduced to 14 men for repeated infringements, the home side took advantage and Jenkins’ second try was again converted by full back Cooke. The city men replied immediately with Mo Pangarker finding a gap to bundle over. Forced to make several interchanges Canterbury then lost shape and momentum, allowing a strong Quins finish and a third try by Harry Burn. Reynolds’ late penalty goal brought up the 40 mark but as the home side chased a much-deserved bonus point, stout defence, where Ryley Thomas was excellent all day, kept them out and rounded off a much needed win for the Canterbury side.
Canterbury: L.Talbot, G.Jones, A.Moss, W.Waddington, O.Hewett, F.Reynolds, P.Farrance, D.Huntley, E.O’Donoghue, O.Frostick, C.McGovern, J.Stephens, J.Walker, R.Thomas, T.Oliver. Replacements: H.Drane, T.Williams, M.Pangarker, O.Collins. J.Dengate.

MATCH PREVIEW

On the stroke of fifty minutes, we scored our fifth try against London Welsh and were comfortably ahead 31–5. We had navigated the first ten minutes of the second half—a period in recent weeks where we have often let the momentum swing away from us—and we had executed the plan we had prepared.
A combination of penalties, turnovers, and lineout errors saw us concede three tries in fifteen minutes, narrowing the gap to a single score and increasing the pressure on us. There was some excellent defence in the final passages of play and a great lineout steal from Charlie McGovern in the final minutes sealed the victory.
This was a much-needed win after our recent results, but there are some important lessons we must learn. As I have said many times before, there are no bad teams in this league and London Welsh have experience from leagues above, including the Championship, in their ranks. Controlling a game’s momentum is crucial if we are to continue winning and how we hand over possession to the opposition is at the heart of coming out on top.

Our attention now shifts to Oxford Harlequins this weekend, the last fixture of this three-game block. The shorter blocks we are now into are helpful in offering regular rest breaks, but it remains essential to stay focused. Oxford are a high-energy side who will play from anywhere and we travel knowing that we must be on high alert to contain their attacking threat.

The Pilgrims are also back in action with an away fixture at Sidcup, who sit second in the table. Winning their last three games has given the team renewed confidence and they are looking forward to the test that Sidcup will offer.

MATT CORKER, HEAD COACH

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

CANTERBURY 31 LONDON WELSH 24

by David Haigh

Canterbury ended a three match losing sequence with this bonus point win, which lifts them to eighth place in the National 2 East table. Bur what appeared to be plain sailing, as they cruised to a 26 point lead early in the second half, ended with them repairing heavy storm damage inflicted by a rejuvenated Welsh. “We probably thought the job was done, ” said Canterbury skipper Jamie Stephens, “and we let out concentration slip.” Up to the 50th minute, the city side’s confidence was not misplaced as they dominated play, produced high quality moments and by half way had banked the bonus point. As in recent games, they made a fast start with two tries in the first fourteen minutes. A turnover and a break by flanker Jimmy Walker cleared the way for the first by Aiden Moss. Lively wing Owen Hewett scored the second, slipping through mid-field from a neat set piece ploy. Frank Reynolds converted both and although he was off target when a fierce driving maul produced a touchdown for Tyler Oliver, Canterbury went nineteen points clear. Welsh had hardly featured as an attacking force and, when they finally worked a clear overlap, wing Dylan Jones spilled the last pass. However, they made up for that error on the left flank where Ben Davies finished good work by his backs. It was a temporary reprieve as, in the last minute of the half, Moss scored his second, chasing down Reynolds’neat kick behind the defence. Ten minutes after the break it seemed that Canterbury had made the game safe as Reynolds combined with Presley Farrance and converted his half back partner’s try under the posts to open a commanding 31-5 gap. Then came the storm as Canterbury visibly faded, Welsh began to dominate possession and territory, seized on errors and scented an unlikely outcome. Two tries in eight minutes from centre Max Bodilly, converted by Matt Hodgson, changed the script and when full back Osian McAvoy scored their fourth Canterbury were hanging on. In the closing minutes they were again under huge pressure and lost Cameron Macmillan to a yellow card. However, a lineout steal by Charlie McGovern, five metres from the home line, denied Welsh the chance of a draw and the city side should be truly grateful.

Canterbury: L.Talbot, G.Jones, A.Moss, W.Waddington, O.Hewett, F.Reynolds, T.Williams, D.Huntley, E.O’Donoghue, O.Frostick, C.McGovern, J.Stephens, J.Walker, R.Thomas, T.Oliver. Replacements: C.Macmillan, M.Pangarker, P.Farrance, O.Collins, J.Dengate

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.

MATCH PREVIEW

Last Saturday we gave ourselves an opportunity. Leveling the score away from home with four minutes left on the clock we were in a position to come away with five points. In the big moments of a game, doing the right thing at the right time is what allows us to come out on top. We didn’t execute and, when a refereeing decision went against us, we handed Oundle an opportunity which the took. It was a tough, last-minute heartbreak.

There was still plenty to be proud of in a performance that was both physical and gritty. We travelled with a clear plan, the players brought it to life, and that makes losing by the narrowest of margins even harder to take. As a group, we’re acutely aware that this is now our third loss in a row and this weekend’s game against London Welsh carries extra significance because of our recent results.

London Welsh come to the Marine Travel Ground having scored fourteen tries in their last two games. They registered a strong win over Havant at home and their narrow defeat to Bury mirrored our own. We won’t be taking them lightly, even if this is their first season in the league. Containing their attacking threats will be crucial and the set piece will be another major battleground. The players have worked hard throughout the week and everything is in place for another big Saturday of National League rugby at Merton Lane.

The Pilgrims have extended their winning run to three games after a strong performance against Old Colfians last weekend, putting 57 points on the board. This important victory lifts them another place in a tightly packed table, now just five points off fifth. The team have a week’s rest before facing second-place Sidcup. It will be a great test of the progress they’ve made so far this season.

MATT CORKER, HEAD COACH

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.