A review by Muhammed Jameel (Web Content Team)
The second match of the Dialog Schools’ Rugby League for the lions kicked off at Havelock Park on the 22nd of June 2024. The Trinitians travelled down to Colombo to take over at the top of the leaderboard but unfortunately could not hit the mark.
Before the game began, D.S. Senanayake College displayed a heartfelt gesture. As the stadium packed with supporters mourned the passing of Master Shabeer Ahamed, the captain of the host team gifted one of their own jerseys with the number that Shabeer would’ve worn this season. This very thoughtful gesture will be remembered by the Trinity community. We thank everyone with a deep sense of gratitude who gave their condolences in this period of grief.
Early Dominance by D.S. Senanayake College
The game was kicked off by last week’s bonus point scorer, Shan Althaf. As a punt from the Trinitians landed in the hands of the opposition’s skipper, the player used the opportunity to execute a chip and chase. The kick was misjudged by the Trinitian sweeper and the lads from Colombo pounced on the scrappy play and scored the first points of the game. As five points were scored right underneath the posts, the other two points were converted with ease.
Rolling Maul Adds to D.S. Senanayake’s Lead
As the lions scrambled to level the score, they conceded a line-out in a treacherous area of the field. The opposition executed a simple rolling maul directing towards the try line. This phase looked a dreading one as the Trinitians were unable to counter the strength coming from the D.S. payers. The ball carrier barged over, adding another five points to their tally. The angle of the place kick this time around was narrow but that factor did not deprive the player as he sailed the ball through the sticks. The half ended with D.S. leading Trinity fourteen (14) points to zero (0).
Trinity’s Resilient Second Half
The score line at half time did not look favourable to the Trinitians but they are known for their resilience and their ability to strike back in the second half of play.
Trinity’s First Try: A Glimmer of Hope
The Trinity team received a scrum in their opponents’ half which ignited an opportunity to score their first try of the game. The Trinitians displayed a jaw dropping move ending with the captain Anuhas Kodithuwakku diving over to open the scoring. The conversion went astray as the ball swayed to the left of the goal posts.
Closing the Gap: Trinity’s Second Try
With the gap reduced by five points, the Trinitians desperately needed two more scorings. An attempted punt by the Donz was chased down and Murad Raizan scored the second five pointer. Unfortunately, the conversion did not go through.
Final Whistle: D.S. Senanayake Secures Victory
The full-time whistle sounded and the Trinitians dropped to their knees as the celebrations from the D.S. supporters deafened Havelock Park. Even though the game ended with our lads at the losing end, this team has much more on their plates to be displayed. Congratulations to D.S. Senanayake College for their well-earned victory!
- D.S. Senanayake College won 14 – 10.
Points Breakdown
D.S. Senanayake College – 2 Tries, 2 Conversions
Trinity College – 2 Tries
