Another month of 300 club winners!
Well done to the following:
Barry Hempsted
Mark Quinn
Gerry Copestake
Greg Mayne
Roger Howard
Category: Uncategorised
Match Report: New Ash Green 24- 29 Canons
By Tom Short
It was a back to back victories for the Canons as the team achieved their first away win of the season with a 29-24 victory at New Ash Green.
Canterbury started the game well, moving the ball out wide in the opening minutes to Fady Sheta, who jinked his way through a number of defenders to score underneath the posts. However, from this point on, the game turned into a scrappy affair, with both teams consistently infringing ang getting on the wrong side of the referee. Both teams struggled to find consistency in attack, with numerous handling errors or the ref interfering due to foul play. Eventually NAG broke through to level the scores. Canterbury prop Lennie West was yellow carded for dissent, and following injury to the front row replacement, Canterbury were forced down to 13 players. NAG took advantage and scored 2 quick tries to lead 19-7 at the break.
Kicked into life by Skipper Ben Jones and returning to a full complement of players, Canterbury finally responded with another Sheta try. A third followed from the excellent Ollie Jeffery, and the bonus point was secured by Terrell Thomas crashing over from short range. As the game entered its final quarter, and Canterbury were further reduced to 14 due to injury, New Ash Green pulled a third try back of their own, after having 2 efforts held up by the resolute Canons defence. A quick break away from Jeffery led to a Fin Osborne try to give the Canons some breathing space. In the last 10 minutes, NAG grabbed a try scoring bonus of their own, but the Canons held on for victory. The win means the Canons sit 7th in the Counties 3 table, with a break week next week before welcoming Old Gravesendians to the MTG.
Canterbury Hit By Late Blow
OUNDLE 31 CANTERBURY 24
by David Haigh
The last play of the game decided this tight, physical National 2 East contest with the Oundle pack snatching victory through a catch and drive try. It was a frustrating moment for a Canterbury side who surrendered a half time lead but fought back to draw level with seven minutes of the match remaining. As in their previous outing, a home loss to Bury St Edmunds, they established a fourteen point lead in the first half hour but, once again., were unable to make the most of the good work. Ultimately, it was the ability of the home forwards to turn entries into the 22 area into scores that proved the difference. Three of Oundle’s tries came via that catch, drive and mauling route while Canterbury, despite having similar opportunities, could only crack it once. The two excellent tries they scored in the first half belonged to the backs, with fly half Frank Reynolds playing a role in both. Wing Adrian Geddes won the race for his slide kick behind the defence for the first. Five minutes later Reynolds launched a counter attack from his own half, chipping into space before releasing Garry Jones, and with support arriving swiftly Aiden Moss finished behind the posts. Reynold converted both. A shaken Oundle now began to flex their muscles and when a penalty gave them a sniff of the line they mauled Grant Snelling over. That was quickly backed up with a break from their own territory which created a try for James Fear and two conversions from Ben Young brought them level. In the final minute of the half Reynolds stepped up to kick a penalty goal for the city side but once the action resumed the slender three point lead did not last. Oundle found space out wide for wing Tevita Va’enuku to put them ahead and in the 66th minute Snelling made his second touchdown from another effective catch and drive. A yellow card for the home side gave Canterbury their chance of a reply; this time they got their lineout and driving maul working and with Reynolds adding the goal points to Eoin O’Donoghue’s try it was all square and all to play for. But it was Oundle who applied the late pressure and Henry Frost’s score, converted by Young, left the city men with only a single bonus point to take home.
Canterbury: P.Farrance, A.Geddes, L.Talbot, A.Moss, G.Jones, F.Reynolds, T.Williams, D.Huntley, E.O’Donoghue, C.Macmillan, H.Kenny, J.Stephens, J.Walker, R.Thomas, T.Oliver. Replacements: M.Timmerman, C.McGovern, J.Dengate, O.Hewett, O.Collins
Terrell Represents Jamaica Rugby in International Clash Against Gibraltar
Canterbury RFC is proud to celebrate one of our own Terrell who recently donned the national colours of Jamaica Rugby in an international fixture against Gibraltar. This milestone marks a significant achievement in Terrell’s rugby journey and reflects the dedication, talent, and character he brings to the sport.
Currently a scholar at Canterbury Christ Church University, Terrell balances his academic pursuits with his commitment to rugby at the a high level. He is an part of our senior setup, consistently demonstrating leadership, athleticism, and a deep passion for the game.
Representing Jamaica on the international stage is no small feat, and Terrell’s selection is a testament to his hard work and the support of those around him. The match against Gibraltar was a thrilling showcase of emerging talent, and Terrell’s performance stood out as a symbol of pride, not just for Jamaica, but for everyone at Canterbury RFC.
We are immensely proud of Terrell’s accomplishments and the way he continues to inspire others within our club and beyond. His journey is a shining example of what can be achieved through perseverance and community support.
Congratulations, Terrell
Rest Brings New Energy
MATCH PREVIEW
I can’t remember a time when we have scored six tries and still lost a game. Our attack, which has been a recent focus, has truly come back to life — with the team scoring eleven tries across the last two fixtures. The disappointment, however, lies in conceding forty-three points at home when Bury visited us two weeks ago.
The main causes of our downfall were our discipline and execution. It’s very difficult to win a match when you concede twenty-three penalties and we too often surrendered possession in key areas, which Bury capitalised on. The frustration is heightened by the fact that we started so strongly and went into half-time leading by ten points — having played up the hill. Not my favourite Saturday.
The week’s rest came at a good time and it’s been refreshing to see the players return with renewed energy to what were tired bodies. The only way to exorcise the demons of our last performance is to travel to Oundle and deliver a very different account of ourselves.
Although this is Oundle’s first season in National 2 we are by no means underestimating them. They have a squad full of experience and have made a strong start to the campaign. Our focus is firmly on getting back to our best and ensuring we come off the pitch feeling very different from our last outing.
The Pilgrims registered their second consecutive win of the season, taking all five points away to Old Reigatians. Another strong performance saw them secure the bonus point before half-time, lifting the team to tenth in the table — importantly, outside the relegation zone.
The next few weeks bring some tough challenges for the Pilgrims. First up tomorrow, sixth-place Old Colfeians visit the Marine Travel Ground followed by a trip to second-place Sidcup and then third-place Sutton & Epsom back at home.
We’re hopeful that, in the coming weeks, a number of players will be returning from injury to strengthen the squad. I’m looking forward to seeing the added competition that will bring across both teams.
MATT CORKER, HEAD COACH
Match Report: Old Reigatians 22- 39 Pilgrims
Old Reigatians 22
Pilgrims 39
The Pilgrims travelled away to Surrey based old Reigatians for the first time on Saturday, looking to build on their first win of the season last time out against Dartfordians.
The city side started brightly and took the lead from a Collins penalty goal after a matter minutes after Old R’s struggled to deal with Pilgrims’ speed and intentionally slowed down at a ruck. 0-3.
Owain Collins- who had a strong all round game, then turned provider as his strong run and pass set debutant winger Owen Hewett over for the first of his 4 try’s. 0-8.
Old R’s responded well and showed they would be a threat with ball in hand, moving the ball well and exploiting space out wide to score in the corner. 5-8.
Pilgrims then allowed Old R’s to level after Prop Harry Drane was penalised for a tip tackle in front of the posts which was easily converted. 8-8.
The pilgrims then started to click into gear as forwards and backs moved the ball seamlessly through the phases. Aiden Moss’ classy line break saw him glide into the back field and unselfishly pass to the supporting Hewett who dotted his 2nd under the posts making the conversion a formality. 8-15.
A great break by Gus Lister saw him beat a number of defenders before being stopped short of the line, half backs Valladares and Hilton moved the ball quickly and put the supporting Hewett in for a debut hattrick, 8-22.
The backs rewarded the forwards hard work with some exceptional handling sending The impressive Hewett over in the corner for his 4th, securing a try bonus point in the process. 8-27.
The city side added a fifth on the stroke of half time, another impressive break by Lister saw him pop to wing man Archie English to dot down and bring Pilgrims best half of rugby so far this season to a close. 8-32.
Old Reigatians could have thrown in the towel at this point, but they started the 2nd half strongly and showed they would still pose a threat if Pilgrims took their foot off the gas.
A missed tackle in midfield allowed them to get in behind the pilgrims defence and good support play saw them score under the posts to make it 15-32.
If the first half showcased their attacking abilities, the 2nd showed they were able to absorb long periods of pressure as Old R’s looked to get back in the game, helped by pilgrims own indiscipline at times.
The Pilgrims weee struggling with the inconsistent management of the game and these frustrations saw Valladares yellow carded for back chat to the referee. Pilgrims defence remained resolute and after a lineout was well won by the forwards, Hilton’s wide pass sent No. 8 Al Evans through a gap in midfield and he drew the fullback and put Ed Thompson in the clear to run in for a score his recent performances have deserved to take the score to 15-39. Shortly afterwards Hewett was also sent to the sin bin to reduce the Pilgrims to 13. Old Reigatians took advantage of their 2 man advantage to add their third try of the afternoon as the clocked ticked down to make the final score 22-39 and secure the Pilgrims a well deserved bonus point win on the road. A week off next weekend sees the Pilgrims return to action the following Saturday at the MTG against Old Colfeians.
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!
Disappointing First Home Loss
CANTERBURY 40 BURY ST EDMUNDS 43
by David Haigh
A dominant visiting pack, poor discipline and questionable choices all contributed to this narrow Canterbury defeat, their first home loss of the National 2 East season. They made a flying start, with two tries in the first six minutes, reached half time nine points ahead, but were unraveled by two quick Bury tries at the start of the second half. So what went wrong? Three yellow cards, all for technical offences, did them no good – three of Bury’s six tries were scored while players were in the sin bin. Of equal concern will be the team’s performance at the set scrums and in the breakdown areas where they were second best. The quick fire opening brought tries for Harvey Furneaux and Henry Kenny, both converted by Frank Reynolds. A Bury handling error, a kick ahead and a long chase saw Furneaux score. For the second, lovely handling sent Garry Jones clear before his kick was collected by an unchallenged Henry Kenny, but is was Kenny who was first to see yellow. Bury capitalised on the extra man with a catch and drive touchdown from hooker Ollie Walliker and Ben Penfold landed the first of his five conversions. One of too many turnovers lead to wing Andy Denham cutting into the Canterbury lead again with an unconverted try. There was a swift reply, the excellent Jones making the running for Tom Williams’ converted score, before another yellow, this time for Presley Farrance, gave Bury the chance to put Tom Hoppe across the line. On the cusp of half time Canterbury turned a penalty award into a converted try for Eoin O’Donoghue and the lead looked secure, but in the first session of the new half Bury turned the game on its head. In the opening minute a turnover won possession to set up centre Hoppe’s second try and a Penfold penalty goal gave them the lead. On 52 minutes Matt Hema snapped up his side’s fifth score from a poor kicking decision in dangerous territory. At the start of the final quarter, the city side regrouped and a Jamie Stephens close quarter try, converted by Reynolds, brought them back into contention at 35-36. However, an under pressure scrum leaked penalties, front foot ball was sparse, prop Lewis Young joined the sin binners and Hema’s second try followed shortly. Canterbury did find some late momentum but a Jones touchdown was not enough to ease the disappointment, only partly relieved by two bonus points.
Canterbury: P.Farrance, G.Jones, L.Talbot, W.Waddington, H.Furneaux, F.Reynolds, T.Williams, D.Huntley, E.O’Donoghue, O.Frostick, H.Kenny, J.Stephens, C.McGovern, R.Thomas, T.Oliver. Replacements: T.Mackenzie, L.Young, J.Dengate, J.Walker, A.Geddes
Key Moments Cost Us
MATCH PREVIEW
Key moments define big games. Fifteen minutes into the second half, we had an attacking lineout in Old Albanians’ twenty-two. One of our best stats from Saturday was that every lineout completed in the OA’s twenty-two ended with us scoring points. This particular lineout, however, wasn’t completed due to a slow lift, resulting in an overthrow. Four missed tackles later OA’s won a scrum on our five-metre line. We then lost a man to a yellow card and conceded a try, giving OA’s a nineteen-point lead. Had we completed the lineout and continued our success in the OA’s red zone, the score could have been 29–24 — a very different game.
The players gave us plenty to be proud of. Thirty-one points is the most that OA’s have conceded this season and scoring five tries away from home against the league leaders is an achievement. But we’re not interested in being plucky losers. We gave a good team too many opportunities and our lineout malfunctioned several times in try-scoring positions. The margins are much finer in games like this, so we know that to come away with a win, we have to be more ruthless.
The Pilgrims, on the other hand, registered their first win of the season with a well-earned 26–17 victory over Dartfordians. They scored a superb try with five minutes to go following an Owain Collins offload and a strong finish from Gus Lister. That put them in front, and a penalty in the final minute sealed the win — also denying Dartfordians any league points.
This win was all the more important as Darfordians still sit one place, and one point, above the Pilgrims after this result. This Saturday we follow up with another important game as the the travel to Old Reigatians who sit bottom of the table. A result tomorrow could see them jump up to nineth in the table if other results go their way.
The 1st XV welcome Bury St Edmunds to the Marine Travel Ground tomorrow in an equally important fixture. Bury also have four wins this season but sit ahead of us thanks to five extra bonus points.
Our improvements in attack are exactly what we’ve been aiming for and we’re seeing real progress. The focus now is on ensuring our defence is relentless and disciplined so we can head into the week off with a win.
MATT CORKER, HEAD COACH
Match Report: Canons 31- 22 Old Williamsonians
By Tom Short
The Canons had their first win of the league season, beating old foes Old Williamsonians 31-22 at the MTG.
With both teams searching for a first win of the season, and Old Wills being the only team to beat the Canons last year, it was going to be an intense game from the start. The Canons started brightly with strong carrying from the forwards, however fell behind to an early penalty following some ill-discipline. The Canons recovered well from the kick off, and after winning penalties of their own worked their way up field. After some good pressure on the OWs try line, Lennie West crashed over from short range to give the Canons their first try of the afternoon. The game was in a period of stalemate, before Old Wills scored their first try after a good line from their outside centre wrong footed the Canons defence. The Old Wills lead was short lived, with almost an exact replica of the first try leading to West scoring his second. Old Wills had the last laugh of the half however, with their centre again breaking tackles to score his second and restore the visitors lead.
The Old Wills momentum followed at the start of the second half after some scrappy play, from which they hacked through and dotted down to take a 10 point lead. The Canons reacted, and after some good phase play and strong carries, the powerful Terrel Thomas trundled over from short range. With fire in their bellies, the Canons began to dominate and grabbed the next score to retake the lead, with Ollie Jeffery scoring the bonus point try. This was quickly followed by a breakaway try for Will Rayner to give the Canons some breathing space which they held until the end of the game, denying Old Wills any league points from the fixture.
Now off the mark, the Canons have a break in fixtures but will look to carry on their winning ways against New Ash Green on 8th November and continue to climb the Counties 3 table.