Canterbury Rugby Club took a huge step towards promotion with a comprehensive 34-15 win over championship rivals Tonbridge Juddians on Saturday.

The city club chalked up their 14th straight win to move 14 points clear at the top of National 3 London & South East, taking complete control of the title race going into the mid-season break.

TJs struck first when Thor Norman’s try was converted by Charlie Harding, but the setback stung Canterbury into rapid action.

Martyn Beaumont chased his own chip-kick to score the hosts’ first try, before the excellent Ricky Mackintosh touched down to open his account. Beaumont added the extras.

George Micans ran in Canterbury’s third try and the home side then made sure of a bonus point when Beaumont fed Mackintosh to double his tally and extend the lead to 24-7.

A Charlie Harding penalty failed to spark a TJs comeback as Mackintosh completed his hat-trick before Juan Del Val scored Canterbury’s sixth try.

Brett Hamlin ran in a late consolation for the visitors, who are now looking to stave off the challenge of Dorking, Ampthill and Bishop’s Stortford in the race for second and a play-off berth. The season resumes on Saturday, January 7.

Caption: Canterbury, black, and Tonbridge Juddians get to grips.