SPORT Strength in depth CITY CLUB IN GOOD SHAPE

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Andy Pratt admits Canterbury’s squad is in its strongest physical condition for some time amid their hunt for a National 2 South promotion play-off spot.

A 38-15 win over Guernsey on Saturday lifted Canterbury onto 97 points in second place, four ahead of closest rivals Henley.

Canterbury stormed to a 21-point lead in the first half before combatting a stern response from the league’s bottom club after the break.

“It keeps us going, we wanted to respect them as there are no easy games in this league,” said head of rugby Pratt.

“It was pleasing to play so well in the first half and get a few tries ahead, but credit to Guernsey because they dominated possession in the second half and gave us a really tough finish.

“We’re really pleased, we were clinical at times and we had to be because they have good players and good coaches.”

Second-bottom London Irish Wild Geese now await as another test Canterbury cannot afford to take for granted, insisted Pratt.

He added: “London Irish are traditionally a great try-scoring team. They are very capable of upsets and have proven they know how to get out of trouble.

“We want an 80 minute performance but it’s the win that matters at this stage of the season.

“We’ve just got to keep up the intensity and get to at least 90% in matches.”

Canterbury are set to flaunt valuable strength in depth as they seek to consolidate their place in the play-off positions.

While it’s one thing having the numbers at their disposal, it’s another for each and every player to contribute where required, added Pratt.

“The bench have got a big role and we’ve told them that.

“They have to come in and do as well as their counterparts.

“We’re in better shape than previous years, which is giving us real flexibility.

“We’ve also got players genuinely suited to positions as opposed to players trying out new roles, so we’re pleased to have settled down after a few injuries at the start of the season.

“The knock-on effect of injuries can hurt the competition for places so we’re pleased with that.”

Canterbury follow up their trip to London Irish with a potentially decisive match against Henley, who they beat 32-29 in November.