Green Machine bring down Eagles
Isipathana College secured a commanding 36-8 victory over St. Anthony’s College in their Dialog Schools Rugby League encounter played at Nittawela yesterday The match saw Isipathana take control early and maintain their dominance throughout against the hosts, who found it hard to challenge the Green Machine.
The game began with a bang with centre Shahid Zumri opening the scoring in the sixth minute with an under-the-post try and the effortlessly converting to put Isipathana ahead 7-0. The early lead was soon extended after winger Dinada Wickramaarchchi made a powerful dash through the defense in the 12th minute. Zumri missed the conversion,
Despite a few early errors, Isipathana continued to capitalise on their opponents’ mistakes. Forward Thinethra Dondamgoda crossed the line for their third try, and Zumri again failed to add the extra points. Just before halftime, St. Anthony’s managed to get on the scoreboard with Rakesh Pilley scoring a try, but the conversion was missed, leaving the score at 17-5 in favour of Isipathana at the break.
In the second half Isipathana continued their relentless pressure. Forward and skipper Nisala Jayaweera scored under the posts just five minutes after the restart, with Zumri successfully converting this time to increase the lead to 24-5. St. Anthony’s responded with a penalty kick from flyhalf Deshan Liyanage, adding three more points to their tally, but this was the only extent of their scoring for the day.
Isipathana’s dominance was further highlighted by two more tries. Forward Himesha Sandeepa crossed the line in the 45th minute, followed by a try from flanker Naweed Thahir in extra time. Zumri and Nimantha Sandeepa successfully converted these tries, sealing a comprehensive bonus point win for Isipathana.
The final whistle was blown when Isipathana was leading 36-8, showcasing their skill and teamwork in a thoroughly dominant performance. The victory not only highlighted their offensive prowess but also their ability to control the game defensively, keeping St. Anthony’s at bay for most of the match.