In an intense match at Bogambara, Kingswood College triumphed over Thurstan College, marking their first win in over four years with a scoreline of 31-17.
The game kicked off with a strong start from Kingswood, who opened the scoring in the 5th minute. A scrum awarded to them after Thurstan knocked the ball forward led to a powerful try by prop forward Tharusha Bandara. Rivin Baudveen successfully converted the try, putting Kingswood ahead 7-0. (KCK 07-00 TC)
The game saw a series of errors from both teams, leading to frequent turnovers. Kingswood conceded a penalty due to sealing off, giving Thurstan a chance to score. However, Thurstan’s Lasanda missed the kick, leaving the score unchanged.
As the first half neared its end, Kingswood capitalized on another penalty. Opting for a scrum, they executed a well-coordinated play that allowed winger Amarasuriya to score their second try. Although the conversion attempt was unsuccessful, Kingswood ended the half with a 12-0 lead.
Half Time – Kingswood 12-00 Thurstan
The second half began with a quick try for Kingswood, again stemming from a penalty and a subsequent scrum. Rivin Baudveen scored his first try of the game and successfully converted it, extending Kingswood’s lead to 19-0.
Thurstan, despite being down by 19 points, chose to go for a penalty kick when given the opportunity. This time, Lasanda’s kick was successful, putting Thurstan on the scoreboard at 19-3. Shortly after, Thurstan found their momentum, scoring their first try of the season through prop forward Vinuka Hejith, with Lasanda converting it to narrow the gap. (KCK 19-10 TC)
- Royal outclass Wesley with a solid second half
- Tankers rule Maradana mud bath
- St. Peter’s Claims a Convincing Victory Over St. Joseph’s
- Isipathana escape defeat by a whisker against Trinity
Kingswood responded swiftly with their fourth try, which also earned them a bonus point. Dilshan crossed the try line, and Baudveen’s conversion made it 26-10. (KCK 26-10 TC)
Vinuka Hejith then scored his second try of the game for Thurstan, and Lasanda’s conversion brought Thurstan closer. (KCK 26-17 TC)
However, Kingswood maintained their composure and control, sealing their victory with a brilliant individual try by Rivin Baudveen in the final move of the game, bringing the final score to 31-17.
This victory is significant for Kingswood, ending a four-year drought and boosting their confidence for the rest of the season.
Full Time: Kingswood 31 (5T, 3C) Thurstan 17 (2,2C,1P)
- NDB Player of the Match – Rivin Baudveen (KCK)
Points Scorers
Kingswood – Rivin Baudveen (2T,3C), Tharusha Bandara (1T), Sadew Amarasooriya (1T), K. Dilshan (1T)
Thurstan – Vinuka Hejith (2T), Nethpul Lesanda (2C,1P)
