Bonus point win for Havies in historical game

Nivanka Prasad of Havies on attack

Shehan Diaz on the move for Havies

• Havelock SC 31 points
• Army SC 15 points

By Shamseer Jaleel

Havelock Sports Club pulled off a bonus point win over Sri Lanka Army in their Nippon Paint Inter Club Rugby League 2022/2023 encounter second half which was worked off at Ratmalana yesterday. After leading 17/8 at the short breather, Havies went on to win the encounter 31/15.

The first half was played in Panagoda and the game was stopped due to heavy rain and unable to see the touch lines. Later according to tournament rule it was to be replayed at the same venue and same match officials within 48 hours. 

As some of the match officials were at work some of them were changed plus the venue was shifted to Ratmalana. This could be the first game in the history of rugby football which went in to another fresh day with a different venue plus with a fresh match referee.

Havies scored their first try in the second half through the dancing, Mithun Hapugoda. Sandesh Jayawickrema was on target with the kick at goal. Army SC were awarded a penalty try for the repeated foul play by the Park Club. Senaka Herath next touched down for the Havies last try. Sandesh Jayawickrema who had a grand game was on target with the last kick at goal. 

Havies would not mind the new venue or change of referee as they received a bonus point win which will help them towards later part of the tournament as they are one of the title contenders along with the defending champions, Kandy SC.

First half Referee: Raveen Alexander

Second half Referee: Gihan Yatawara