Report by Claire Morley
The Pumas made a good start in their bid to retain the title of Turkish league champions on Saturday, beating the Ottomans 10-5.
Despite wet conditions a good crowd turned out to watch a very physical game in true rugby tradition. The Pumas dominated in the first half with fly-half Can Özyüruk scoring all the points with a try, conversion and penalty. The home team went into half time with a 10-0 lead. However the Ottomans fought back and controlled much of the second half, scoring a try which they failed to convert, taking the score to 10-5.

The wet conditions dictated a game that was dominated by the forwards, where the Pumas were far stronger winning much of the lineout and scrum ball. When the Ottomans were able to get the ball out to their backs they showed more fluidity than the home side.

This was the first league game for new coach George Armstrong who was impressed with the player’s positive attitude and commitment.
“The whole team worked for the full 80 minutes,” he said. “Thanks to Kim Tyler for all his fitness work and to Keith Ellor for his input which has helped to get us off to a great start, however, there is still a lot of work to be done if we want to retain our title.”
Man of the match went to Mirunalan Guhanesan, who had an outstanding game after coming on to play in the position of flanker, when Dinçhan Kilercio?lu moved to prop to replace the injured Mohammad Azari.

After the game both teams enjoyed an evening of entertainment at the Pumas new match day clubhouse, 15s bar and restaurant
The Pumas next league game is expected to be early January. Click on the thumbnals below to view some highlights from the match.

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