By Peter Antoniou

Slovenia 7 Cyprus 56

The rugby season kicked off over the weekend with Cyprus eager to begin their Rugby Europe Conference 1 South campaign in positive fashion.

The game against Slovenia was played at the Oval stadium in Ljubljana, with a vociferous local crowd. Cyprus had a number of travelling fans who where not to be outdone, with chants of “Ella Kypros” providing our boys with some much-needed support.

The mighty Mouflons were the stronger outfit in all areas of the field. The pack was well-organised, despite not having a big window to train together. Getting together three days prior to an international is not ideal preparation.

It was Cyprus who scored early and built upon the momentum from the opening whistle. Slovenia fought hard to get into the game, pinning Cyprus back on a few occasions, but Cyprus held firm.

Scoring more than three tries means Cyprus get a bonus point on top of the four points for a win as they sit proudly at the top of the table with five points.

Cyprus’ next international will be at home against Israel on November 12.