Host team CH & FC must consider themselves unlucky as they failed to capitalize on the numerous opportunities that came their way in the final minutes of the game despite having the lion’s share of possession only to lose 21-27 against Havelocks in their inter-club League rugby match at Racecourse Ground in Colombo last week.
This win not only handed Havelocks the much-coveted YC Chang Memorial Trophy, but it also put them firmly in control of the match with four tries, two conversions and a penalty. CH & FC, on the other hand, scored three tries and converted all three for a valiant but ultimately fruitless effort.
The game began with both teams on the front foot. CH & FC drew first blood in the second half, as they won a line-out and swiftly worked the ball for winger Ramesh Fernando who touched down near the corner flag. Maliksha Perera made an excellent touchline conversion making the scores 21-17 at that stage.
However, Havelocks had other plans. Despite CH having more possession Havelocks managed to break the deadlock and in the 58th minute, Janidu Fernando scored his second try of the match off a line-out drive. Although the try went unconverted, it gave Havelocks a narrow 22-21 lead.
But with the game on a knife’s edge, Havelocks sealed the deal in the 73rd minute as Jayathu Rajaratne, who had already scored once try, barged over for his second, which also went unconverted. The six-point cushion proved to be just enough as CH & FC couldn’t capitalize on their remaining chances.
The first half was an action-packed affair, with both teams playing on an equal footing. Havelocks started strong with Jayathu Rajaratne cutting through the defense to score under the posts for Sandesh Jayawickrema to make the conversion and the Park Club led 7-0.
But CH quickly responded with Gimhana Silva crashing over for a try in the 27th minute after a well-earned line-out. Perera’s conversion made it 7-7. CH then took the lead with Anuk Fernando’s try in the 32nd minute, created by the tireless Udesh Madushanka. Perera’s successful conversion put them up 14-7.
Havelocks answered with their own brilliance as Janidu Fernando scored off a line-out in the 35th minute and Jayawickrema’s conversion tied the game 14-14. Just before halftime Havelocks earned a penalty and Jayawickrema slotted it through to give them a 17-14 lead at the break.
Eventually CH and FC blew their chances and as the final whistle blew, Havelocks had the edge, clinching the victory with a six-point lead.
Referee Ishanka Abeykoon controlled the game well allowing both teams to showcase their attacking flair. But in the end, it was Havelocks who showcased what was needed when it mattered while CH & FC left the field to rue their missed chances.