Champs Isipathana kicks off 2023 League defence with bonus point win

By Shamseer Jaleel in Kandy

Defending League Champions, Isipathana College sent out a strong warning for the other schools in the competition when they pulled off a magnificent 32 points (5 tries, 2 conversions, 1 penalty) to 8 points (1 try, 1 penalty) win over Kingswood College in their Dialog Schools Under 20 Rugby League encounter at the Bogambara Stadium in Kandy yesterday.

At the short breather it was 20/0 favouring the winners.

Isipathana, had a great start with their huge forwards and speedy three quarter line combining well. Their skipper, Naveen Kaniska was outstanding. His gaining touch and territory helped the Pathana outfit to attack from the opposition half. Further their centre, Saheed Zumri too was outstanding in attack splitting Kingswood defence all over the Park. The ball handling in wet conditions was excellent by both teams.

For Kingswood their skipper, Imanka Ishara and deputy skipper, Inoon Ihshan were outstanding both in defence as well in attack. In fact Inoon had some brave moves and he was the playmaker of the Randles Hill outfit who lacked support from his team mates.

Isipathana drew first blood in the 8th minute of the game through G. Gamage. Minutes later the Green Shirts scored their second try through their skipper, Naveen Kanishka through a sweeping three quarter move. Ranesh Silva added the extras. Minutes later he put his team 3 points ahead through a penalty. Isipathana scored their third try through second rower, M. Hettiarachchi.

After the turn around Ishara scored Kingswoodians only try while Imanka Ishara put over a penalty. For Isipathana, second half tries were scored by I. Gamage and Saheed Zumri.

Referee was Raveen Alexander.