At the start of proceedings, the Josephian full back had an incredible game with his brilliant running moves forming the over-lap in attack and he was a pillar of strength as the last man of defense. Shamilka Kurumulapitiya was safe under the high ball and penalty kicking gave the Josephians much needed territorial advantage. His individual brilliance was on display when put over a beautifully executed sole try for the Joes.
Wesley number 8 Sithum Peiris who represented Sri Lanka in the junior Asiad last year, played his first game in his new position doing it justice as he was influential in many attacking moves. He showed he is one of the more versatile number 8s going around this season as his work rate was higher than the others. Sithum’s ravishing running game made him a potent threat to the Josephians.
Lasindu Ishan the Science No 8 who represented the Sri Lanka under 18 last year, showed a great impact in turnovers and mighty tackles. A strong lad, he made the opposition struggle as he was strong as a brick-wall in defense. His organized defensive structure denied the Eagles scoring opportunities. His quick breaks in the scrums made his skipper Prasad’s job easier playing as scrum half.
Energetic and flourishing flanker Shemal Weerasekera played the key role for the Eagles against Science College. He was sin binned early on for a high tackle on Science full back Ravin Fernando. However, after spending 10minutes outside the pitch he came with ferocious legitimated tackles. He was the most highlighted player as he showed great eagerness to nail the opposite ball carrier which he did remarkably well.
The amazing stepping, passing and chipping Shamri Burah certainly has got all the skills in rugby. He has a good understanding of the game between himself and the Peter’s three quarters. He made some great tackles which not many No 10’s are capable of and it is apparent there is a lot to come from Burah in the coming weeks.
Speedy No11 from Kingswood scoring a try in the right corner fending off two defenders was a stunner. T I Jaleel made some great yards with the ball in hand. His efforts were in vain as the results ended in a draw which was not expected.
Highest points scorer in week 1 with 21 points under his name with 1 try, 5 conversions and 2 penalties, the big centre Tarinda Ratwatte, leading the team as the captain of the Lions this year has shown a great character so far with his power hitting and great kicking. Week two will be an interesting battle as they take a strong Joes side as his form will play a vital role.
Skipper Nimshan of Royal was the recipient of a dangerous tackle by Akila Perera the second row from Isipathana. Nimshan was fit enough to overcome that tackle and score three penalties. His effort however came just short of winning by 2 points. He played a very controlled and composed game and his kicking boots will need to play a significant role in the future games.
For Isipathana No 8 Omalka Gunaratne is a very strong driving force for Isipathana especially when attacking with the ball in hand he is a brutal giant. The green machine is more reliable and known for the three quarters but this year the pack forwards including Omalka will have their impact. With his massive strength he breaks through scrums in split seconds.
Big lock forward for S Thomas’ Shehan Udawatte showcased himself with an almost 40m from a line out break to set up the try to Naveen Henakankanamage. An immense work force was set by Udawatte to counter the opposite scrum and win them.
Dharmaraja No 12 Viraj Weerasekara did a splendid job hitting the gaps with enormous power; he was inches close to score a try early on which was denied by S Thomas’ defense. He is fast and agile and although the defending champions were into a losing start, Weerasekara’s role will be key for Rajan’s to come back strongly.
