Isipathana College produced a dominant second-half performance to defeat Royal College 31/12 and regain the Major Milroy Fernando Memorial Trophy in their opening Super Round encounter of the Dialog Schools Rugby League at Havelock Park yesterday.
The teams were locked at 12-all at halftime after a closely contested first half.
Royal struck first through winger Dinuka Perera before Isipathana responded with tries from prop Nevith Mevnaka and winger Dilum Senadeerage. Hooker Akira Yatawara also crossed for Royal as the Reid Avenue outfit held a narrow advantage before the Green Machine levelled matters at the break.
After the turnaround, Isipathana took complete control. Full-back Nimantha Sandeepa crossed for a converted try before skipper and no.8 Shaakib Zumri, who had a grand game, crashed over twice to seal victory.
Royal’s challenge was hampered by four yellow cards, while Isipathana’s superior discipline, ball retention, and forward dominance proved decisive as they strengthened their credentials as serious contenders for this season’s League title.
Ananda shock Sumangala
Ananda College shocked the much fancied Sumangala College in their Schools League Plate encounter which concluded at the Trinity College Rugby Stadium in Pallekele last weekend.
At the short breather, Ananda led 13/12.
The lads from Maradana cut loose in the latter half by scoring 18 unanswered points to secure a remarkable win.