Early errors were to prove costly for a decidedly off colour Canterbury who failed to score a point in the second half as they struggled to crack a strong visiting defence. 

Barnes pounced on mistakes in the first ten minutes to score two of their three tries and although they reached half time only six points in front, shrewd game management helped to earn the win. 

The omens were not promising for Canterbury when centre Frank Morgan was injured in the pre-match warm-up, forcing a hasty reshuffle of the back division. 

When the game did get under way Barnes stole the first lineout, won a penalty and skipper Rory Kassapian’s try put them ahead after only three minutes.

A dropped ball quickly gave them another foothold and a penalty for a high tackle ended in a driving maul and a try for Lewis Jones, converted by Jack Martin.  

Canterbury had hardly been seen at this point but found a way back after fifteen minutes, building their first real pressure before spreading the attack wide where Kurt Heatherly sent send Alfie Orris across in the corner. 

Frank Reynolds brought more cheer with a conversion from the touchline and it was his boot that promised to open second half opportunities.

Canterbury: K.Heatherley, T.Williams, G.Jones, W.Waddington, A.Orris, F.Reynolds, P.Farrance, D.Huntley, E.O’Donoghue, O.Frostick, D.Irvine, J.Stephens, S.Rogers, T.Mackenzie, T.Oliver. Replacements: N.Morris, D.Herriott, H.Kenny, C.Thomas, T.King.

Pictures supplied by Phillipa Hilton.