RACECOURSE, Colombo: (ePRESS) – Police Sports Club kept their hopes alive in the Plate Segment of the Mastercard ‘A’ Division Inter-club League Rugby Tournament with a crucial 25-15 win over table leaders CH and FC at the Racecourse Stadium in Colombo. After leading 22-8 at halftime, Police displayed a composed and strong performance to secure the win, scoring four tries and a penalty.
The match started with CH and FC taking an early lead, with Kavindu Yasas successfully kicking a penalty in the fifth minute to make it 3-0. However, Police responded quickly in the 11th minute when Prince Chamara capitalized on a loose pass to score the first try of the game, giving Police a 5-3 lead.
The Police continued their strong attack, and in the 20th minute, burly forward Heshan Kalhara, a former Kandy SC stalwart, powered over for an unconverted try, increasing the lead to 10-3. They continued to build momentum, with Hafiz Thabeeth adding the third try of the game in the 29th minute. Yohan Peiris made a brilliant conversion from the right flank, pushing the score to 17-3.
Despite Police’s dominance, CH and FC fought back with their first try in the 33rd minute, when prop Charith Silva dove over for an unconverted try, reducing the gap to 17-8. But Police were not finished yet, as winger Sujan Kodithuwakku sealed the bonus point try just before halftime, scoring at the stroke of the whistle to make it 22-8 at the break.
The second half started with CH and FC showing renewed determination. In the very first minute, flanker Devinda Ratnayake scored a try after a powerful drive, and Yasas added the conversion to bring CH and FC within striking distance at 15-22.
However, Police managed to hold firm in the face of pressure, with solid defence and controlled play. As the final whistle blew, Police emerged as deserved winners, with a 25-15 scoreline, ensuring they remained in contention in the Plate Segment of the competition.
Referee: Suranga Arunashantha
