Match Report: Canterbury 19 Tonbridge Juddians 22

This was another promising performance from the Canterbury squad as the club builds towards the start of the National 2 East season next month.

Only a late try from National One new boys Juddians, denied the City side a victory that their hard work deserved. They suffered nothing in comparison to a team that has bolstered by heavyweight signings and in most areas were every but their equals.

At half-time they led 19-10 through tries from scrum-half Presley Farrance, full-back Luke Talbot scoring against his old club and Number Eight Tyler Oliver.

Farrance scored after eight minutes with a razor-sharp interception, Talbot put in a lovely individual break after fielding a clearance kick, while Oliver put the finish to a series of pick and goes by the Canterbury pack. Frank Reynolds converted two of the scores whilst the TJs kicker was off target with both of his side’s touchdowns.

The visitors third try came in the 55th minute and although they enjoyed a slightly better share of the possession, they could not crack the Canterbury defence again. It was a scrum error that cost the City side the game as they lost the ball three minutes from time and the visitors made it count with their fourth touchdown, this one converted.

Canterbury complete their pre-season programme on Friday evening with a visit to National One neighbours Blackheath (KO 8pm) while the Pilgrims meet Deal & Betteshanger at the Marine Travel Ground (KO 7.30pm)