14-man Kandy claw back to stun Havies
Kandy Sports Club produced a stunning late surge to defeat Havelock Sports Club 24-20, preserving their unbeaten streak in the SLR-MasterCard Club Rugby League, in an intense Week 4 clash at Havelock Park yesterday. The 14-man Kandy came from a 10-point halftime deficit to claim victory in the dying moments, as the Hill Capital side scored from three converted tries and a penalty to amass 24 points. Havelocks scored from two converted tries and two penalties, while holding bulk of the advantage for their 20 points.
Havelocks began in style, taking the lead in the very first minute with a penalty by fullback Samuel Maduwantha. Despite going down to 14 men early due to a sin-bin, Kandy responded swiftly. Flyhalf Tarinda Ratwatte, the league’s leading scorer, dived under the posts and converted his own try to put Kandy ahead 7-3 by the ninth minute.
Kandy trailed most of the time, but bounced back to beat Havies in style
Havelocks struck back with an electrifying run from winger Jayathu Rajaratne, who intercepted a pass from Kandy winger Shahid Zumry and scored under the posts. Maduwantha’s conversion restored Havies’ lead at 10-7 in the 17th minute.
Maduwantha extended the advantage to 13-7 with a penalty as Kandy faced a setback after Kavindu Perera received a red card for a high tackle on Havelocks scrumhalf Mohamed Rifan. Havelocks capitalised on their numerical superiority with a try from former captain and hooker Azmir Fajudeen in the right corner after a lineout. Maduwantha’s conversion pushed the halftime score to 20-10.
The second half began with a blow to Kandy as Ratwatte exited with a shoulder injury, replaced by Danushka Ranjan. Despite missing an early penalty, Kandy began to claw back. In the 58th minute, forward Akil Mohamed touched down in the right corner after a driving maul, with flyhalf Nigel Ratwatte converting to narrow the gap to 20-17. Kandy’s defining moment came late in the game. Winger Dinal Ekanayake, following a brilliant line change and pass from Nigel Ratwatte, scored in the right corner. Ratwatte’s stunning conversion pushed Kandy ahead 24-20. The match ended with Kandy’s defence holding firm, ensuring their unbeaten streak remained intact. This victory showcased Kandy’s toughness, overcoming a red card and injuries to secure a thrilling win. Havelocks, despite their strong start, were left to rue missed opportunities.