Canterbury run in a great eight

By NICK CROWE

Canterbury…………..52

Westcliff…………….. 14

Canterbury eased relegation fears with a comprehensive victory over a determined but outplayed Westcliff team, prevailing by eight tries to two.

Playing with the elements in the first half, the hosts were soon two scores to the good, with tries coming from Tyler Oliver and Dave Irvine, both converted by Frank Reynolds.

Westcliff slowly got themselves back into the match, but staunch home defence denied them opportunities.

Further tries from Billy Young and Will Waddington, one converted by Reynolds, saw the hosts register a fourtry bonus point before the half-time whistle.

Westcliff started the second half brightly, and Greg Bannister was able to cash in on a loose ball and outstrip the cover for a fine try, which he converted.

Canterbury regained the initiative almost immediately with a score from skipper Tom Best, converted by Reynolds.

Westcliff continued to battle and reduced the deficit with a classic front row try, Teddy Moss scoring and Bannister converting.

The game appeared to be fizzling out before the hosts enjoyed a golden last 15 minutes, with further tries for Waddington, twice, and Tom Williams, Reynolds converting both.