Two Plate segment encounters to decide the silverware

Friday, 7 March 2025 03:11 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Shamseer Jaleel

Army SC vs. CH & FC

Army SC will host CH & FC at Panagoda while Police will host the sailors at Police Park, both Plate segment encounters likely to decide the fate of the trophy this year.

Army vs. CH encounter on 7 March at Panagoda with both teams will be all out to make a strong statement as they continue their battle for supremacy in the league’s second-tier competition.

Army SC, known for their physicality and structured play, will look to capitalise on their home advantage and recent form. Their forward pack, a key strength, will aim to dominate the breakdown and set-piece exchanges, while their backs will seek to exploit any gaps in CH & FC’s defence. In 10 matches Army have scored 30 points. Soldiers are led by Nalaka Maduranga with some top quality players such as Isuru Medagedera and Ashan Bandara and they hold a slight edge in this game.

CH is known for their dynamic attacking play and experience to challenge the hosts. Their ability to execute quick transitions and maintain possession under pressure could be crucial in breaking down Army’s defensive line. CH playing their 12th and last game in the Plate segment have secured 33 points so far. They are led by Janidu Dilshan plus some good players in their ranks such as Vimukthi Gamage, Nirosh Perera and Pasindu Bandara.

Referee Gihan Yatawara will officiate this crunch encounter.

Police Vs Navy

Police Sports Club will lock horns with Sri Lanka Navy in a crucial Plate segment clash on 8 March at Police Park.

Cops are in a must win situation as both Army and CH are also top contenders for the Plate. They will be looking for a bonus point win to cut the deficit. With their two main contenders for the Plate, Army and CH.

Police have shown glimpses of strong rugby throughout the season, but inconsistency has cost them key games. However, they remain a formidable force, boasting a solid forward pack and pacey backs capable of breaking through defences. Their urgency to secure maximum points will add an extra edge to their performance on match day. They are led by Mohan Wimalaratne with Nilfer Ibrahim handling the outfit.

The sailors, once a dominant force in Sri Lankan rugby, are struggling to find their rhythm, and another defeat could see them sink further into rugby obscurity. The sailors are led by Thilina Weerasinghe and have some good players such as Koojana Kulatunge and Shabith Musheen in their outfit. They are looking for their first win this season.

With Police desperate to stay in the Plate race and Navy eager to salvage pride, this encounter promises to be an intense battle. Expect a fast-paced, physical showdown as the Cops aim to power through the sailors in their quest for silverware.

Police have collected 27 points from their 10 games while sailors’ total points are 6 from the same number of matches.

Referee will be Raveen Alexander.

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