Isipathana prevail to record second win

By M. Shamil Amit 

(Daily Mirror) - The second round match of the Dialog Schools Rugby League tournament between Isipathana and Science played at the Air Force ground in Ratmalana saw the two teams coming into the field looking to record their second win, and it turned out to be a keenly contested game, with league and knockout runner-up of last year, Isipathana, coming out victorious by 19 points to 9.

Isipathana, having taken a 14-6 lead at the breather, made up their points through two goals and a try to the three penalties scored by Science.

Isipathana made the first move through a try, which was converted, but Science struck back by booting over two penalties to reduce the deficit.

The two sides known for their fast, open rugby saw them battling it out fiercely, but it was the Pathanians who succeeded in adding to their score when they went over for a try, and with the conversion being perfectly put over, they increased their lead to 14-6.

But Science, undeterred with their do-or-die approach, took up the challenge and forced a penalty, which they succeeded in booting before the short whistle was blown with Isipathana holding on to a 14-6 lead.

The second half turned out to be a closely contested affair, and in this session only eight points were scored, with Isipathana doing the scoring from an unconverted try and Science replying with a penalty.
With neither side being able to make any scoring, the Isipathana outfit held on to the 19-9 win.

Referee: Raveen Alexander 

Pix: Kushan Pathiraja