Trinity College emerged victorious against Dharmaraja College, defeating them 40-14 at their home den in Pallekele, and boosting their chances in the super round hunt with a controlled performance.
Both teams started aggressively, creating early opportunities but failing to capitalize. The game took a dramatic turn in the 5th minute when Trinity’s skipper, Anuhas Kodithuwakku, suffered a serious injury following a heavy tackle from Dharmaraja’s center, Anjana Panhatipola. Panhatipola was sent to the sin bin for his challenge, reducing Dharmaraja to 14 men.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Dharmaraja’s defense held strong, thwarting several scoring attempts by Trinity. It wasn’t until the 24th minute that Trinity broke the deadlock. Thisanga Dissanayaka scored the opening try through a well-executed rolling maul, with Shan Althaf successfully converting. (TCK 07-00 DRCK)
Just before halftime, Trinity added two more tries to their tally. Dinusha Pieris powered through the Rajans’ defense to score his first try, followed by a try from Alexander off a lineout throw, pushing the score further. Althaf converted the first try, while the second conversion attempt was unsuccessful. (TCK 19-00 DRCK)
Halftime – TCK 19-00 DRCK
Trinity continued their dominance in the second half, with Shrayan Sathieshkumar scoring the bonus point try just two minutes in. Althaf added two more points with a successful conversion, bringing the score to 26-0. (TCK 26-00 DRCK)
Dharmaraja responded in the 48th minute, with Prabuddhika Madhushan scoring their first try, which was converted by Sadeesha Weerawansha. (TCK 26-07 DRCK)
However, Trinity quickly extended their lead again, with Dinusha Pieris scoring his second try of the game, and Rushen Bandaranayaka converting. (TCK 33-07 DRCK)
In the 67th minute, Trinity capitalized on a scrum 5 meters from the try line. A well-coordinated play saw the ball move across the field to Yevan Hulangamuwa, who scored Trinity’s sixth try. Althaf made no mistake with the conversion. (TCK 40-07 DRCK)
In the final moments, Dharmaraja managed to score a consolation try, which was converted by Weerawansha, but it was too little too late. (TCK 40-14 DRCK)
This crucial victory keeps Trinity’s Super Round hopes alive. All eyes will now be on the upcoming match at Havelock Park, where they hope for a favorable outcome to bolster their chances further.
Full Time: Trinity 40 (6T, 5C) Dharmaraja 14 (2T,2C)
- NDB Player of the Match – Dinusha Pieris (TCK)
Points Scorers
Trinity – Dinusha Pieris (2T), Thisanga Dissanayake (1T), Shrayan (1T), Yevan Hulngamuwa (1T). Alexander (1T), Shan Althaf (4C)
Dharmaraja – Prabudhdhika Madhushan (2T), Sadeesha Weerawansha (2C)
