Won 3 – 2
Scorers: Stewart Keir, Ben Hare, Christian Kortlang
MoM: Simon Triggs
DoD: Christian Kortlang
With thanks to team sponsor MPil http://www.ideaworks.co.uk
Canterbury Pilgrims secured a crucial 3-2 victory over Cliftonville at Polo Farm, ensuring their survival in Southeast Division 1 East. With just two games left, Canterbury held a narrow four-point lead over their relegation rivals, making this a true six-pointer.
Canterbury started brightly, taking the lead through Stewart Keir’s clinical low drag flick. Cliftonville responded quickly to level at 1-1, setting the stage for a fierce contest. However, Ben Hare restored Canterbury’s advantage with a brilliant solo effort, dribbling into the D and firing a bobbling backhand shot past the keeper.
Charlie Lloyd Hughes marshalled the defence superbly, repelling Cliftonville’s attacks. Canterbury extended their lead when Simon Buckingham’s shot was deflected into the net by Christian Kortlang, making it 3-1 at halftime.
The second half was far tougher. Canterbury struggled to maintain their dominance, and an early blow to Kortlang—painful but humorously accepted—set the tone for a nervy period. Cliftonville piled on pressure through relentless short corners, but goalkeeper Simon Triggs delivered a heroic performance, making a string of outstanding diving and deflecting saves.
Tension soared when Canterbury were reduced to nine men after back-to-back green cards, dubbed “question time” by the team. Cliftonville capitalised, pulling a goal back to make it 3-2 with 16 minutes remaining.
With the match on a knife edge, midfielders Keir and Ollie Boydell provided a crucial defensive screen, while the backline held firm. Canterbury’s attack couldn’t find a fourth goal, but the defensive resilience proved decisive. Despite Cliftonville’s late onslaught, Canterbury stood strong, sealing a hard-fought victory.
This win guarantees their place in the division next season. Triggs earned MOM for his stellar goalkeeping, while Kortlang took the DOD award for his unfortunate second-half mishap.
A victory built on grit, skill, and resilience—Canterbury can finally breathe easy.