COLOMBO, Feb 10 (ePRESS) – Old Ben’s Sports Club side Camillus, led by captain Anuradha Fernando, emerged champions of the Old Ben’s Hockey 7-a-Side Legends Tournament, winning a tense final after a dramatic penalty stroke decider at the College Ground in Kotahena last Saturday.
Camillus sealed the title in a thrilling final against Philip. Philip took an early 1–0 lead and defended bravely for most of the match. Just 10 seconds before the final whistle, the Camillus captain struck a vital equaliser to force the match into penalties. Holding their nerve under pressure, Camilus went on to win the shoot-out and lift the championship trophy.
Earlier in the tournament, teams were divided into two groups. Group Green consisted of Philip, Luke, and Camillus, while Group White featured Cassian, Christian, and Claude. The top two teams from each group advanced to the semi-finals.
Semi-finalists Camilus, Philip, Christian, and Claude impressed with disciplined and skilful hockey. Although Luke and Cassian failed to reach the last four, both teams remained unbeaten in regulation time and were eliminated only through penalty stroke deciders.
The tournament also featured an exhibition match by the current Old Ben’s hockey players.
The champions trophy was presented by Director of St Benedict’s College, Rev. Brother Niran Perera, while the runners-up trophy was handed over by Old Ben’s Sports Club President Anura De Silva.
Celebrations continued late into the night with a lively Hockey Night attended by families, children, spouses, and grandchildren. With music, raffle draws, entrance gifts, and a packed clubhouse, the evening reflected the strong bond within the Old Ben’s hockey community.
The smooth conduct of the tournament was a credit to the organising committee, led by Michael Fernando and Priyadarshan Giridharan. Their careful planning and commitment ensured a flawless event that successfully revived memories.
The long-awaited return of the Legends Tournament turned into a proud celebration of Old Ben’s hockey history, bringing former players from different eras together for a day filled with competitive hockey, respect, and friendship. The event drew a large gathering of families and friends, adding warmth and colour to the occasion.
