Royal in dominant win over Kingswood 60-05
Royal made a statement to others with a resounding win - Pic by Eshan Fernando
Royal College sent a resounding message to other contenders by convincingly defeating Kingswood College 60-5 in their opening match of the Dialog Schools Rugby League at the Royal College Sports Complex yesterday.
Royal showcased their renowned dominance upfront, complemented by a swift backline that proved too much for a struggling Kingswood side. Despite managing a try, Kingswood found themselves overwhelmed by the relentless pressure from Royal, especially evident in the final 20 minutes of play.
Royal seized an early lead when winger Didula Jayasuriya touched down in the second minute, though Idris Farook missed the conversion.
Kingswood responded swiftly with a try of their own after a missed catch by a Royal defender allowed winger Sadew Amarasooriya to level the score. Royal swiftly regained control with centre Perera adding their second try, converted successfully by Farook, establishing a 12-5 lead.
In the 12th minute, Royal conceded a penalty that Kingswood failed to capitalise on. Moments later, Royal lock Bhuwaneka Senanayake received a warning for a late tackle. Kingswood fly half aimed for touch, gaining ground for his team.
Royal forwards showcased their prowess in the 19th minute with a rolling maul that culminated in hooker Naqeeb Mohamed scoring left corner, as Royal led 17-5 after a failed conversion. A precise pass from flyhalf Farook in the 26th minute set up a line-out near the try line, initiating another impressive rolling maul by Royal’s forwards. This effort allowed Mohamed to secure his second try, securing a valuable bonus point for Royal.
Eight minutes later, open-side flanker Senuja Ranasinghe broke free from a well-defended rolling maul, extending Royal’s lead to 27-5 just before halftime.
In the 39th minute, Kingswood’s lock was sent off for an infringement. Royal started the second half strongly, with fullback Disas Pathirana creating an opportunity for winger Hiruka Jayadinu to score under the posts, adding seven more points to Royal’s tally. The dominance continued as Farook darted through multiple defenders to score under the posts, pushing the score to 41-5.
As the game neared its conclusion, Royal wingers continued their success, with Jayasuriya and Thivain Perera both crossing under the posts to extend the lead to 53-5. Nabeel Yahiya narrowly missed a challenging conversion attempt.
With time running out, Jayasuriya set up Pathirana for another try under the posts, with Yahiya successfully converting to seal a comprehensive 60-5 victory for Royal. The match concluded with a poignant two-minute silence in memory of Trinity College rugby player Shabeer Ahamed, who tragically passed away earlier in the week.