"AN outstanding performance" was the verdict of Canterbury head coach Danny Vaughan after his young players shone in Sunday's pre-season warm up game against National Division One heavyweights Blackheath.

New signings George Micans, from Bedford Blues, and the hard working Ben Massey were among several who won high praise as the city club held the visitors to a narrow try margin in a game played in three 30 minute sessions.

"Blackheath brought a much bigger squad than ours," said Vaughan, "and the performance was a big improvement on the previous week.

"All our young players were in good form and the way we competed against their strongest combination in the opening half hour was great."

Vaughan still has gaps to fill ahead of a Kent Cup game against Old Colfeians at the end of the month and the National Two South opener at home to Clifton on September 4.

Locks Rob Keir and Matt Lister are currently sidelined with injuries and the decision by Pat Sykes to join Tonbridge Juddians has left a gap at centre.

Canterbury are actively seeking a high quality replacement and the squad will be further strengthened with the arrival this weekend of Kiwi number eight Wim Baars.

Vaughan can also call on the services of lock Benn Smith, who has returned to fitness after a back problem limited his appearances last season, and a new wingman from Blackheath is also lined up.

Canterbury's senior squad will not be playing rugby this weekend but still face their toughest pre-season challenge to date as they head to Dartmoor for a two day team building exercise under Royal Marine supervision.