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I am sure those of you who follow Ottomans regularly perhaps noticed that Ottomans did not win a vital/tough game since Cyprus tour in 2010 against Pumas. Against major opponents (Odtü, city rival Kadıköy, Samsun, Pumas, Samsun, London Irish) we have been in the losing end since. But the faith has changed on 7th of April 2013.
A very motivated team under our captain Basar lead Ottomans to a 6-12 win over last years finalist Samsun at their field. The game was played at very narrow and fairly grass field under good conditions. Although some are regarded as their original positions, at this game a few positions been filled by certain players for the first time; Oğuzhan played Flyhalf, Mustafa Kemal played full back, Pepo played in his native prop and utility forward played as a flanker.
The game witnessed very tough tackling from both of the teams from the start. Scrums particularly were very strong and competitive. Samsun started strong at attacking, Ottomans stoped them by fierce defense. Mistakes in rucks caused many penalties in the first half but only one from each side was utilised with score. Dogukan and Atacan have put a particularly good effort to stop Adem and Recep, Samsuns' centers.
Second half Ottomans started to kick for territory way into Samsuns' defence, this have gave them the avantage and caused Samsun to go backwards. Ottomans new configuration at the pack, Pepo and Alkım as props and Başar, Altuğ pushing them from behind proved a good match against a incredible stong Samsun pack. Three more penalties, including one 40 yarder, from Mustafa Kemal sealed the victory for Ottomans in the end.
Last minute was particularly nerve breaking, since a determined Samsun pack attack for the win and and arrive to try line after 7 phases. But in the end experienced showed its tool and Anıl get away with the loose ball.
No need to mention virgins has been treated accordingly during the trip. Welcome to the club young fellas.
We would like to thank Samsun Rugby for their support and friendship. With their talented and skillful coach Engin and captain Recep they have showed a big progress, altough with a very different looking squad, from last year. Samsun in April is one of the best destinations to travel.
Team: Pepo, Erdem, Alkım, Altuğ, Başar aka Bash, Tavşan Melih, Atacan new Fevri, Anıl Can, Q the Kubilay, Oğuzhan, Onur the Küçük, Dodo, Ekin, Samet, M.Kemal. Subs Not Used: Emre B, Gentle Giant Sertaç, Elmor Salih, Ulaş, Technical: Soprano Gürhan, El Presidente Özer, Fırfır Yiğit (formerly known as Sish), Hakan Ünsal
Points: Cold feet Mustafa Kemal made 4 penalties out of 6. Fes went to Mustafa Kemal, congrats new coach.
Referee Onur (Mr please do not pass)
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