Cricket Legends FC defeated the Old Maristonians 3-2, in a close encounter at the Maris Stella College Grounds.
The Exhibition Match was played as a start for the Maris Stella College Sports Fund, initiated by the Maris Stella College Old Boys. The proceeds of this match also went to strengthen the fund which would act in helping the Maris Stella sportsman in the future.
The Cricket Legends were captained by World Cup winning all-rounder, Upul Chandana while the Old Maristonians were led by Janaka De Lambert which had many former players who had represented school, club and country. The Cricket Legends included the likes of Chaminda Vaas, Ravindra Pushpakumara, Jeewantha Kulathunga, Farveez Maharoof, Sajeewa Weerakoon and Wendell Labrooy.
The Cricket Legends got off to a dream start as they took a 1-0 lead in the 2nd minute. Skipper Chandana got on the end of a Maharoof through ball in the penalty box and unleashed a powerful strike towards the far post.
Cricket Legends dominated possession and territory in the early minutes as both sides struggled to adapt to the wet and muddy ground conditions.
Old Maristonians grew into the game as the minutes went by and had a chance in the 25th minute when Rumold Fernando intercepted a pass to race through on goal but his effort to chip the ball over was well read by the goalkeeper to make the save.
Cricket Stars eventually got their equalizer when a mistake in defense allowed Shashira Kurera to score past the goalkeeper.
Half time – Old Maristonians 1 – 1 Cricket Legends
As they did in the 1st half, Cricket Legends started the 2nd half brightly and this time Chandana turned provider for an enticing cross which was poked home by Weerakoon to restore their goal advantage on the hour mark.
10 minutes later they made it 3-1 and looked like would have a stroll to the final whistle. However, the Old Maristonians hit back soon in the 75th minute to set up an interesting final quarter of an hour.
With the hosts pushing forward for an equalizer, Chandana and Labrooy had opportunities to score with just the goalkeeper to beat but both of them sent the ball wide.
Full time – Old Maristonians 2 – 3 Cricket Legends
