An exciting school rugby game on the cards at Pallekele today
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Leaving aside the Bradby Shield, nothing in school rugby is bigger than the clash between Trinity and Isipathana. Last year’s match ended in a draw and it was pulsating while it lasted. Today, these two giants of local rugby lock horns at Pallekele.
These teams won their games last Saturday as a precursor to this epic lash. While Trinity beat Zahira 22-11, the Patana lads had a rather more comfortable 30-6 win over the Anthonians. To continue the comparison, Trinity touched down thrice, while Patana did so on five occasions.
Trinity’s number eight Rahul Dhiren was, in the eyes of many people, the player of the match. He touched down in the opening minute, and had a terrific game overall. Kevin Karunanayake, the centre, is another who can be happy about his performance.
Trinity has a good mix of young and old. Prop Nimesh Ekanayake, lock Mecan Yashwanth, Dhiren Ratwatte and Amith Kulatunga have been around for a season or two. Fly half Minidu Jayasundara made some appearances season, but he has been thrust into the important number 10 berth. Skipper Reshan Bandaranayake did not have too many opportunities to shine in the Zahira match. But he is a cool, unflappable player who has lots of experience.
Flanker J.W. Serasinghe who leads the visitors is all over the place in his anxiety to help his team. He was able to cross the line last week. Last year’s captain Manilka Ruberu is the player to watch. A well built player, he’s not averse to taking his opponents head on. As the place kicker, he leaves a bit to be desired. Full back A.L. Gunasekera will be remembered for a vital, last gasp try at Nittawela last season.
Winger Nadeesh Chaminda and centre M.I. Ratnayake turned out last season and performed creditably. They are part of Patana’s attacking force.
Possible Teams
Isipathana: V. Warnapura, N.N. Athukorale, P. Vimukthi, S.S. Dodangoda, D.H. Sihasara, J.W. Serasinghe, K. Bandara, D.N. Wickremaarachchi, Y. Ratnaweera, C.T. Kalhara, N. Chaminda, Manelka Ruberu, M.I. Ratnayake, R.H. de Silva, A.L. Gunasekera.
Trinity: Nimesh Ekanayake, Dulara Alawattegama, Pabasara Munasinghe, Chetiya Pananwela, Mecan Yashworth, Dulandith Netsara, Dhiren Ratwatte, Rahul Dhiren, Tehan Karunanayake, Minidu Jayasundra, Amith Kulatunga, Kevin Karunanayake, Shyan Robinson, Janidu Ratnayake, Reshan Bandaranaike.