CR continues winning streak; grounds Air Force

Saturday, 16 December 2023 00:03 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Adeesha Weeratunge of CR hands off an Air Force player

CR player Tharindu Kushan passes the ball before being tackled by Sudath Bandara

By Shamseer Jaleel

CR and FC continued their winning streak when they outplayed Sri Lanka Air Force by 29 points (5 tries, 2 conversions) to 5 points (1 try) in their Nippon Inter Club Rugby League 2023/2024 encounter which concluded at Longdon Place last evening.

At the short breather, the Red Shirts led 22/0.

Once again the game was played under wet and tough conditions for ball handling. CR played well in the initial half understanding the conditions and changing their game plan according to that. They not only touched down on 4 occasions before half time but also took away the bonus point well before the short breather.

Air Force got their act and got out of their dream in the later half playing some good quality rugby and continuity of their moves were seen. They almost dominated the latter half but the points conceded in the initial half did no favours for a comeback. They kept their defence tight allowing the hosts only to score one try during this period of time. CR drew first blood early in the 2nd minute of the game through a sweeping three quarter move that ended in a right corner try for Gemunu Chethiya. Kavindu Yasas missed the kick at goal. Seven minutes later Air Force made a mess out of a clearance kick which fell into the hands of Lasindu Karunathilake on the try line which he just touched down. This time Thenuka Nanayakkara missed the kick at goal. Next try was scored by Thenuka Nanayakkara for the Red Shirts who converted by himself to give a clear 17 to nothing lead. CR dominating with some cohesive rugby scored their 4th and bonus point try through Randy Silva to take the short breather at 22 to nothing in their favour.

After turning around Kavindu Yasas touched down Red Shirt’s 5th try. Thenuka Nanayakkara added the extra 2 points. Air Force who regrouped and played a better brand of rugby in the last 30 minutes of the game was rewarded for a fine three quarter move initiated by experienced, Gayantha Iddamalgoda which ended in a try for Pramod Pathmashanka.

Referee was Raveen Alexander.

Today there will be 2 games down for decision in Colombo. Navy SC will host CH and FC at Welisara while Havies will host Army SC under lights at Havelock Park, Meanwhile the unbeaten defending champions, Kandy SC will host the unpredictable Police SC at Nittawela on 17 December.