Trinity College produced a sensational second-half fightback at their home ground in Pallekele yesterday, overcoming Isipathana College 19-17 in a thrilling Cup final of the All-Island Under-14 Elite Rugby Tens tournament 2026, which concluded last weekend.
Isipathana appeared firmly in control in the first half, dominating proceedings and taking a commanding 17-0 lead into the short breather. However, Trinity returned after the break with renewed determination and displayed tremendous character, composure and attacking intent to turn the match completely on its head.
The Trinitians gradually cut into the deficit before completing a remarkable comeback to snatch a dramatic 19-17 victory in front of their home supporters. Their outstanding second-half performance transformed what looked like a comfortable Isipathana victory into one of the most exciting finishes of the tournament.
Pulith Silva was named Player of the Tournament for his outstanding contribution throughout the competition.
Cup Segment
In the quarter-finals, Science beat Dharmaraja 15-10, Trinity defeated Ananda 14-7, Isipathana beat St. Thomas’ 26-0 and St. Peter’s defeated St. Anthony’s 22-0. Trinity then beat Science 19-0 in the semi-final, while Isipathana defeated St. Peter’s 24-5 before Trinity completed their comeback against Isipathana in the final, winning 19-17.
Plate Segment
Ananda defeated Dharmaraja 12-7 and St. Thomas’ beat St. Anthony’s 7-0 in the semi-finals. Ananda then produced a strong 22-0 victory over St. Thomas’ to claim the Plate championship.
Bowl Segment
Royal College defeated Kingswood 32-10, Mahanama beat Sumangala 17-0, Wesley defeated Vidyartha 19-0 and DS beat Zahira 19-5 in the quarter-finals. Royal beat DS 17-0 and Wesley defeated Mahanama 19-7 in the semi-finals, before Royal edged Wesley 7-5 in the final.
Shield Segment
St. Joseph’s beat St. Benedict’s 34-0, St. Aloysius defeated Maliyadeva 19-0, Prince of Wales beat Richmond 33-0 and Lumbini defeated Thurstan 24-0 in the quarter-finals. St. Aloysius then beat St. Joseph’s 12-7, while Prince of Wales edged Lumbini 15-12. St. Aloysius finally defeated Prince of Wales 19-5 to lift the Shield.