Head coach Matt Corker is happy to see Canterbury Rugby Club’s players taking the lead - on and off the pitch.

Corker revealed his squad took charge of half-time discussions in their home win against National League 2 East basement boys North Walsham last weekend.

Whatever was said clearly worked with a strong second-half performance seeing Canterbury earn a 41-12 victory after they had only led 10-5 at the break.

“It’s very pleasing,” said Corker. “It’s been the plan for a long time. For us coaches, we’re preparing the players to take over the reins.

“Our plan is for us, as coaches, to steer the ship and they can use their own knowledge and leadership skills during games. That can really help us on the field - and off it.

“We have made some real progress in that area.”

Four of Canterbury’s six tries were scored by their forwards, ending a run of three defeats at Merton Lane. Nathan Morris (2), the returning Shay Kerry, Dutch international Jesse De Vries and Garry Jones dotted down, along with a penalty try.

Corker reflected: “Obviously, North Walsham are having a tough season - but I think that doesn’t really show the threat they pose.

Report: Canterbury 41-12 North Walsham

“Until they scored at the end, they were only on five points.

“There’s two other teams that have conceded five points or less against them this season.

“That’s something we can be proud of because they’re a real attacking threat.

“At half-time, we were not as in control as we would have liked. But the players led [talks] at half-time - being vocal - and that’s something they put right.

“That puts us in a really good position, going forward.”

Seventh-placed Canterbury will host fourth-bottom Guernsey on Saturday aiming to do the double over them. They will again be without a key back-rower, though.

Corker explained: “Jesse De Vries has been selected again for The Netherlands. It’s another chance for him to perform internationally.

“We wish him all the best and we’re looking forward to him coming back and finishing the season with us.”

While Canterbury Pilgrims’ 18-match winning run ended last weekend at Crowborough, they will be crowned Kent 1 champions if they beat Ashford on Saturday.

Corker said: “The lads were really gunning for that perfect season - but that doesn’t take away anything from what they have achieved so far.”