By Muhammed Jameel (Web Content Team)
In a clash of titans, Trinity College “School on the Hill” and St. Thomas’ College “School by the Sea” battled on the field for the revered Canon De Saram Shield. The much-anticipated showdown took place on August 12, 2023, at St. Thomas’ Ground, Mount Lavinia, Colombo. The scorching weather and coastal backdrop added to the intensity of the game for both teams.
A Battle of Grit and Glory
The Trinity Line-Up:
Shrayan Satheeshkumar
Dehan Watagoda
Senula Alexander
Jayageeth Basnayake
Jeywin Samarakoon
Venuka Kumarage
Nisith Kumarasinghe
Raveen Ilangarathne
Rushen Banadaranayake
Shan Althaf
Lakindhu Herath
Anuhas Kodithuwakku
Chamod Dehigama
Abidh Jameel
Attaab Manzil
Senitha Karawita
Chamendra Dhanapala
Manusha Silva
Hamdan Faizal
Thenuk Fernando
Dinol Wijerathne
Veruna Wijekoon
Upek Gammudali
A Showdown of Skill
A battle hard kick by the captain of Trinity College, Attaab Manzil set the game in motion. The Trinity Lions of the hills maintained their resilience, excelling in their strategies at defense, thwarting valiant attempts of the Thomians to bag a few scores. The boys did their able coach, Fazil Marija proud by executing strategies to dominate lineouts, implementing offensive tactics to pass and offload the ball to teammates. The team confronted the defensive tacklers efficiently, guarding their hard-earned scores that shone on the board.
Seizing Opportunities
A penalty awarded to Trinity saw Anuhas Kodithuwakku deliver a masterful kick into touch, setting up Trinity for their first points. A flawless lineout by Dehan Watagoda enabled Venuka Kumarage to initiate an unstoppable rolling maul. The Thomians’ illegal attempt to halt it led to winger Abidh Jameel passing to Chamod Dehigama, securing Trinity’s first try. Shan Althaf’s conversion extended Trinity’s lead to 7 points.
Capitalizing on Momentum
Trinity capitalized on mistakes by the Thomians, scoring their second try. Strong attacks led by the line saw the ball worked to the wings, exploiting gaps in Thomian defense. Jeywin Samarakoon scored his maiden try for the college. Shan Althaf’s successful kick widened the margin to 14.
A Test of Grit
Despite penalties, Trinity continued their charge, securing a third try through Senula Alexander. Shan Althaf’s well focused kicking extended Trinity’s lead to 18 points.
St. Thomas’ Response
St. Thomas’ managed penalties and tries, reducing the deficit. They displayed strength and tactical acumen, scoring a try as the halftime bell rang.
The Second Half
Trinity began the second half with an electrifying offense. A promising counterattack was denied, yet the Lions’ speed kept them charging. The team’s agility tore through Thomian defense. Lakindhu Herath and Nisith Kumarasinghe advanced, setting up Chamod Dehigama’s second try. Trinity’s defense stood firm at breakdowns.
A Hard-Fought Victory
St. Thomas’ managed a late try under challenging circumstances. Despite a Thomian comeback, Shan Althaf’s penalty secured Trinity’s victory. The match ended with Trinity securing a score of 31, against Thomians’ 20.
Standout Performances
Chamod Dehigama: 2 tries
Jeywin Samarakoon: 1 try
Senula Alexander: 1 try
Shan Althaf: 4 conversions, 1 penalty
Man of the Match
Jayageeth Basnayake’s outstanding performance crowned him the Man of the Match title.
A Triumph Continues
Trinity College retains the Canon De Saram Shield for yet another year. This spirited encounter showcased rising talents and fierce competition. Thomians fought valiantly, embodying the essence of rugby – a game of strength and sportsmanship.
The Future Beckons
Trinity’s under-12 and under-16 teams secured decisive victories, while the under-14 team displayed prowess despite falling short against the Thomians.
The battle has been fought, the shield retained, and the spirit of rugby celebrated once again on the field.