Unbeaten Run Continues

Charlton Park 16 Canterbury Pilgrims 50

by John Mitchell

Although the unbeaten Pilgrims started well, with Harvey Furneaux darting through for a try converted by Tom McMann within the first two minutes, it was followed by a period full of errors, lack of concentration and penalties conceded. Park’s Alex Miller, once a Canterbury player, made them pay with two penalty goals. However, it was a penalty against the home side that led to a second try as Jake Dengate darted over from a lineout and McMann, in great kicking form, landed the second of his six conversions. Then Presley Farrance’s mis-timed tackle earned him a yellow card and from the penalty Miller was on target again. Just before half time Jake Dengate, who was having a fine game, was illegally denied a probable score and McMann’s penalty goal saw Pilgrims to an eight point lead at the break. The second half was a different story as Canterbury took control. Within minutes a very good team move saw Farrance weave through to score under the posts and as Pilgrims pressure built the Park defence could not stop Alex Evans crashing over the line. Next it was a 50 yard run from the in-form Furneaux which set up position for the fifth try. The home defence proved solid, held the ball up on three or four occasions, but finally Adam Malik plunged over for the only unconverted try of the day. The conversion attempt was charged down, something you do not see that often. Pilgrims wanted to keep a clean sheet in the second half but Charlton Park would not lie down. They worked tirelessly and deserved the converted try which made the scoreline 36-16. But that sparked the Pilgrims into life again. They shrugged off a yellow card for Furneaux and ran the ball from one end of the pitch to the other. Farrance sold a lovely dummy to score under the posts then immediately McMann did the most delicate of chips, Gus Lister sprinted through, picked up in one hand and raced away to claim the final try. Pilgrims sit top of the league having played eight and won eight. This Saturday they play Crowborough, who are in second place, and are undefeated. Come and watch this top of the table clash. The Bar is open and food is being served.

Date for your diary, December Friday 15th evening kick off, under lights v local rivals Thanet Wanderers. Don’t miss.