- Quick Links:
- Latest News
- News Archive
- Roster
- Coaching
- 2007 Schedule
- 2007 Standings
- 2007 Results
- Gallery
- Community
- Join Us
- Sponsor Us
- Youth Team
- Links
- Forum
Sunday 8th June 2008: Maidstone Pumas 12 Colchester Gladiators 20
Heartbreak for Pumas
On a lovely summer’s day at Aylesford Rugby Club, the Maidstone Pumas returned to their home ground to welcome the Colchester Gladiators.
The Pumas on the back of last weekend’s defeat to the local rivals, East Kent Mavericks, were confident of putting up a good showing against a team who two seasons ago won promotion to Division 1, only to drop down last season.
The first quarter was dominated by defence, with the only bright spark coming from Pumas QB John Bowden pass to Anthony Malyan for the longest reception of the season so far 42 yards. A Colchester run for touch down was called back for a technical infringement, which led to a scoreless quarter.
The second quarter started with the Pumas driving the ball deep into the Colchester half with running back, James Cherry taking the hand off’s and making good yardage. However, the score came after a Bowden to Malyan pass which was for 11 yards, leaving Bowden 1 yard to dive in for the score.
The second half started with a determined Colchester side taking the game to the Pumas. On the Colchester first drive, running back Duncan Flack ran in from 8 yards. This was followed by Alex Robinson making the two point try. On the very next series, Paul Gates ran down the sideline and scored on a 19 yard Touchdown.
One thing which is not in doubt, is that the 2008 Pumas play for 60 minutes and with plenty of heart. After a spell of excellent defence, QB Bowden was chased from the pocket, but launched a pass down the field which was caught by Malyan - this time from 31 yards. The Pumas went for the 2 point conversion, which James Cherry capped a splendid day by making the tying score. Cherry would go on and record his 2nd 100 yard game of the season.
Both teams then went for the win, with possession changing hands, however, Colchester took the ball with less than two minutes on the clock. After a sideline pass which moved the ball downfield and a series of runs, Colchester were on the Pumas 3 yard line with 3 seconds left. Unfortunately, for the Pumas were caught by the speed of Robinson who swept in. immediately, the excellent officials called the end of the game.
It was a sober group of players who shook hands with the opposition. Coaches Earl and Lear, praised the effort of a small squad, many playing both ways.
The Pumas schedule now shows a welcome week off before returning to Aylesford Rugby Club with the return visit of the East Kent Mavericks. Kick off is 2.30 on the 22nd June.
The club are building upon these successes and are still looking for players (youth and senior) and coaches to assist with the 2008 campaign and beyond.
Previous