After successfully retaining the Bradby Shield for the fifth consecutive year. The Royal College Rugby Team took the field to defend their claim to the Major Milroy Fernando Trophy. With hopes of topping the Singer Schools Rugby League to finish off yet another stellar season.

Isipathana started off strong converting a penalty to take the lead with three points. Testing the Royal Defense right throughout the 70mins keeping the whole of the sports complex on their feet.

Isipathana clearly dominated the first half with possession and territory and enjoyed three lineouts five meters from the Royal try-line in succession but failed to capitalize. With almost 80% possession in the first half, Isipathana regularly tested Royal’s defensive line with fiery runs off flat passes.

However, Royal eventually outclassed their visitors in the end as they outscored the Isipathnians 19 to 06 with Rajindu Jayasuirya, Lehan Gunawardane and Achitha Radeeshan crossing the whitewash in the second half while Dulan Gunwardana and Maleesha Perera contributed 4 points courtesy of 2 conversions.

Isipathana refused to lie down, but with 10 minutes to go, Isipathana coughed it up as they earned two yellow cards in the 67th and 68th minutes through Sahan Siyasara and Chamath Kalhara, allowing Royal to escape unharmed.

The two yellow cards ended up costing Isipathana deeply, as Royal finished the stronger pack of the two teams. With another trophy in their cabinet the Royal Rugby Team prepare to face off the Josephians for their last game of the season to decide the Singer Schools Rugby League.