Review by Muhammed Jameel (Web Content Team)
In an intense clash between Trinity College and Vidyartha College, filled with penalties, rolling mauls, and turnovers, Trinity emerged as the triumphant team following a disappointing result in the gloomy setting of Bogambara last Saturday.
Trinity’s formidable lineup consisted of T. J. Fernando, D. D. I. Watagoda, S. H. Alexander, V. L. Kumarage, C. S. G. Dhanapala (Vice-Captain), R. V. Illangaratne, H. K. B. Samaraweera, T. B. Dissanayake, R. N. A. H. Bandaranayake, M. A. A. Shan, K. A. L. A. I. Kodithuwakku, J. H. M. L. L. Herath, W. M. S. R. B. Wanasekara, A. M. Jameel, and A. Manzil (Captain).
The game kicked off with a powerful start by Shan Althaf. Trinity dominated the gameplay in Vidyartha’s half, exerting pressure with their forwards and backline. A scrum was awarded to Trinity just 15 meters away from the try line, presenting the first opportunity for a try. Shan Althaf passed the ball to skipper Ataab Manzil, who dived in for the opening try. However, Shan Althaf’s conversion kick missed the mark.
Trinity strategically utilized rolling mauls during their lineouts, taking advantage of Vidyartha’s repeated collapsing of the mauls. After multiple warnings and a yellow card for Vidyartha’s No. 6, the referee awarded Trinity a penalty try without the need for conversion.
As the first half neared its end, Anuhas Kodithuwakku showcased exceptional strength by breaking multiple tackles in a single phase.
HALF TIME SCORE: Trinity College Kandy (TCK) – 12, Vidyartha College Kandy (VCK) – 0.
The second half began with Trinity asserting their dominance, pushing Vidyartha deep into their own half. Trinity earned a penalty and opted for a lineout. Another successful rolling maul followed, and Trinity’s prop Thenuk Fernando powered his way to the try line. However, the conversion attempt by Rushen Bandaranayake went wide.
Adverse weather conditions led to a series of missed conversions and penalty kicks. Trinity seized the opportunity when Lakindu Herath intercepted a pass and dashed towards the try line, but unfortunately, he was deemed offside.
Trinity’s grip on victory slipped momentarily as they fumbled the ball, allowing Vidyartha to score two unconverted tries.
However, Shan Althaf’s resilience shone through as he successfully kicked a penalty goal, securing Trinity rugby’s first-ever win in the Sri Lanka Schools’ Rugby League 2023.
FULL TIME: Trinity College Kandy (TCK) – 20, Vidyartha College Kandy (VCK) – 10.
Junior Age Group Results:
Under 12 team emerged victorious in all their matches.
Under 14 team secured victories in both 10-a-side and 15-a-side matches.
The Under 16 match was canceled due to deteriorating weather and ground conditions.
