The Havelock Sports Grounds filled with fans from both Royal College & St. Joseph’s on the 6th of April 2018 as they braced themselves for the most hyped up match of this Singer Schools Rugby Season thus far. The stakes were high as the Champions of the League 2017, Royal College, lined up alongside the Knockouts Champions 2017, St. Joseph’s College. The pressure was on St. Joseph’s College who were only triumphant in the U -18 match earlier that evening. With no clear favorite or underdog in sight the match kicked off to unravel what was to be one of the most sensational School Rugby encounters in recent years.

The spirited Joes got off to a thriller of a start as they made a break through the Royal line and scored within the first two minutes of the game. After a successful conversion the score stood at SJC 7, RC – 0, driving it to the Royalists that the match was not going to be easy. As the Royal offensive moved into the Josephian territory (Joes managing to defend at the line) they capitalized on an error made by the Joes skipper placing the score SJC 7 – 3 RC. These maiden points were scored through the posts by Dulan Gunawardane.

The tables were finally turned moments later by Himantha Hirushan, scoring the first try for the tuskers. Successfully converted by Gunewardane the score stood at SJC 7, RC 10, and remained the same come half time at the 35th Minute.

Royal College came in strong in the second half with Flanker Ifham Fareed picking the ball and pushing it over the try line. Gunewardana failed to convert, however it was apparent that the hopes of the Blue White and Blue were fading away.

With the score at 15 – 7 in favour of the Royalists, the Saints came back with two penalties, cutting down the margin to a narrow two points. With the match moving into its final quarter both teams stood their ground battling it out on an epic field with a result that could turn in either team’s favour. St. Joseph’s College failing to retain possession of the ball was forced to play a defensive game in advantage to the Royalists.

Royal College with a valiant effort to seal their victory within a dangerous final four minutes decided to leave it to the skills of Dulan Gunewardana. With 3 points gained by the boot the restart by scrum saw the Royalists maintain possession of the ball effectively enduring through the final seconds to secure a nail biting victory over the Josephian side. The roar that ensued immediately was a chilling testament to what the victory meant for the defending champions; Royal College!

Full Time: Royal College 18 (2T 1C 1P) – 13 (1T 1C 2P) St. Joseph’s College

Photo Albums : Media Unit / Photographic Society