Upcountry Lions Sports Club were handed a 24-15 defeat by Sri Lanka Navy Sports Club despite leading in the first half in their Dialog inter club ‘A’ division league rugby tournament first round match played at the Jayathilake Stadium in Nawalapitiya today.
Navy SC who were trailing 14-15 at half time came back magnificently to turn the game in their favour while collecting their points from one goal, one try and five penalties while the home side responded with one goal, one try and a penalty.
The Lions had everything to play for after taking a 15-14 lead at half time, but they blew it up unable to retain possession which they squandered at crucial stages as Navy SC cashed into turn tables.
Navy SC owed much to their dynamic Fijian full back Lutumaikigi who powered his way to score two splendid tries under tremendous pressure and at a time the home team fancied their chances.
Navy SC were also fortunate that their reliable place kicker and wing three quarter Nuwan Hettiarachchie was on target with five vital penalty kicks at goal while he also converted one of the tries.
Upcountry Lions of course scored two tries, one each by winger Sashan Mohamed and fly half Srinath Sooriyabandara, in their push to make headway during the first half.
One of the tries was converted by their New Zealand centre Tevita Taufal who also put over a penalty.
