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Today is judgment day for Dialog League Rugby 2015
View(s):At stake is the prestigious league title when rejuvenated Kandy SC meets a refreshed Navy SC outfit at Nittawela today. Kandy-Navy matches, in recent times, have been the ultimate test of rugby supremacy. No quarter is asked or given; neither team will budge an inch. The recently worked off Borneo Sevens has taken a toll, with players of both teams sustaining injuries. Sajith Saranga, Srinath Sooriyabandara and Vishwamithra Jayasinghe are all under the cash. But given the importance of the game to the Sailors, they could take the field. There are question marks on this score hovering over the likes of Fazil Marija and Nigel Ratwatte.
Confidence-wise, Kandy is in front by virtue of beating Navy at Welisara in the first round. What they achieved in the latter’s backyard could be done more easily in their own, seem to be Kandy’s thinking. But key games of rugby are not only about home advantage. Unlucky Havelocks went under to Kandy by a single point at Nittawela but lost by two points in their home environs. What must the Navy do to topple the many times-crowned champions from their perch? They have a tall order. Win without conceding a bonus point to Kandy, easier said than done.
The Kandy side’s reserve strength is good. That’s why they were able to down the Havies despite leaving out a couple of leading lights. Besides, Kandy has managed its bench strength well. Centre Pongi has gained a lot of attention. Oscar Ouma has shown his paces. But the undoubted star of the show has been the South African Chris Cloete. In a word, he has been superb. Backing them up are the Weeraratne brothers – Gayan and Roshan, Anuruddha Wilwara, Dhanushka Dayan, Lavanga Perera and Richard Dharmapala in the back division.
Kandy’s defensive work has been very good. However, in this crunch game, they will have to improve their line-out work. They lost some important lines out against the Havies. The throw ins and timing of the jumps have to be looked into. The Navy fields a balanced side. Moreover, it is out with a lot of talent and experience. Sajith Saranga, Henry Terrence and Achala Perera are well-known names that have been around for a while. The inspirational scrum half Srinath Sooriyabandara can pull off something special. They have in Vishvamithra Jayasinghe, a player who possesses raw speed.
No.8 Nawari Eramasev had a fine game against the Police scoring twice. Centre Naikasau Leo is also a powerful runner. Put Lee Keegal and Suranga Pushpakumara with the mix and Navy will be quite formidable. Kandy probably has the edge, but Navy will be hell bent on upsetting them.
Tickets can be obtained at the Club House on Sunday morning, according to the secretary Leslie de Soysa. - AK