Royal overpower champions Isipathana 39-13

Royal College Colombo produced a majestic all-round performance, powered by rock-solid defence to crush defending champions Isipathana College 39 points (four goals, one try, two penalties) to 13 (two tries, one penalty) in their Dialog President’s Trophy Schools Under-19 Knockout rugby semi-final played before a large crowd at Longden Place yesterday after leading 19-8 at the ‘breather’.

Royal and never looked back, sealing a convincing victory to book a blockbuster final clash against their traditional rivals Trinity College Kandy.

Isipathana struck first through winger Jefraz, who crossed in the left corner for an unconverted try to give the Green Machine an early 5-0 lead. But Royal responded quickly as winger Khyan de Silva finished a strong move, with fullback Shimak Shafeek adding the extras to put Royal ahead 7-5.

Royal then took firm control. De Silva scored his second try soon after, once again converted by Shafeek, as Royal stretched their lead to 14-5. Skipper and number eight Disas Pathirana added further damage just before the break, crashing over from a powerful number eight move for an unconverted try to make it 19-5.

On the stroke of half-time, Isipathana reduced the deficit when Nimantha Sandeepa slotted over a penalty to make it 19-8 at ‘lemons’.

The second half began with a spark from Isipathana, as winger Manuja Boteju slipped through several tackles to score an unconverted try, narrowing the gap to 19-13.

However, Royal’s defence held firm and their forwards took control. Pathirana powered over for his second try in the 43rd minute, with Shafeek converting to extend the lead to 26-13.

Shafeek then took charge with the boot, knocking over two penalties in quick succession in the 47th and 55th minutes to push Royal further ahead at 32-13.

The final blow came in the 63rd minute when a TMO decision resulted in a penalty try for Royal following foul play by Isipathana. The Green Machine were reduced to 14 men after fullback Sandeepa was shown a yellow card, as Royal stretched the score to 39-13.

From there, Royal’s defence remained immaculate, shutting down any hopes of a comeback and securing a dominant victory at the final whistle.

Source: Daily News