Science creates history-Milo knock Out Trophy

A superb second half rally saw Science College, Mount Lavinia create history by beating Isipathana College by 21 points (3 Goals) to 18 (1 Goal, 1 Try , 2 Penalties) and clinch the Milo Rugby Knock Out Trophy in the final played at the Royal Complex yesterday. Winners were trailing by 7-15 at lemons.

It was a historic moment for the lads from Mount Lavinia as this is the first time they have won a major trophy in XV side rugby.

Isipathana were out to a flying start in the first half when in the second minute of play, full back Rehan Silva received a pass from winger Asitha Punchihewa and fell over the line for an unconverted try by the left corner flag. Score 5 Nil in favour of Isipathana.

Two minutes later, Isipathana increased their lead to 8 Nil, when their fly half Isuru Kongahawatta fired across a 30 metre penalty.

Five minutes later Science College hit back when off a three quarter move, centre Tharindu Maduranga made a lovely break to score a try mid right. He added the extra points himself to close the gap to 8-7 in favour of Isipathana.

On the stroke of half time, Isipathana increased their lead when their second row forward Chathura Dilshan powered his way to touch down under the post to give their fly half Isuru Kongahawatte an easy kick at goal. And the lads from Havelock town led 15- 7 at the breather. Early in the second half, in the 12th minute of play, Pathana went ahead further when their fly half Isuru kongahawatte put over a 30 metre penalty to make it 18-7.

Science College’s fight-back began in the 22nd minute of the second half when their scrum half Hashan Madumadawa scampered through for a try under the post. Tharindu Maduranga added the extra points to make the score 18 points to 14 in favour of Isipathana. Three minutes later, Science full back Supun Dilshan scored the most extravagant try of the match, when he collected a desperate clearance kick from Isipathana fly half Isuru Kongahawatte and burst through over 30 metres to fall over mid right for a glorious try. Centre Tharindu Maduranga converted to give them a 21-18 lead.

Although Isipathana tried hard in the last ten minutes, they could not pierce the rock hard Science defence and the lads from Mount Lavinia ran out worthy winners by 21 points to 18. Referee Irshad carder controlled the game.