S Thomas’ on the lead with final score of 7 (RC) – 11 (STC)

U 15 Encounter halts at 8 (RC) – 10 (STC)

The 24th Annual Royal Thomian Water Polo encounter for the Dr. R. L. Hayman Trophy took place last Saturday at the Sugathadasa Stadium. The evening kicked off with both teams entering the water with much energy and enthusiasm.

The 1st quarter began with Royal’s side displaying some commendable strength, however only to be soon disdained by the Thomian’s. Despite the first few minutes going shoulder to shoulder with Royal fighting back a score of 1(RC) – 2(STC), the Thomians soon displayed signs of domination with their continuous attacks. Two more goals ensued bringing much delight to the Thomian crowds. Yet there seemed to be much faith in the Royal team as all Thomian cheers kept getting drowned in the yells of the boys in blue and gold. The 1st quarter came to an end with the Thomians on a lead at 1(RC) – 4(STC).

The 2nd quarter began with the confident Thomians continuing that domination with a early goal raising the imbalance to 1(RC) – 5(STC). The Royalists seemed to be in troubled waters in both senses, as their counterparts established a firm grasp over the game. The fans however still exhibited that extreme faith in the team and soon were rewarded with the Royal side scoring. The breakthrough made way to turn the tables in Royal’s favour as two more ensued during the quarter. However the Thomians barred the rebound, ending the quarter in a more comforting 4(RC) – 6(STC).

The Thomians seemed to be on their a-game with the beginning of the 3rd quarter as the side cut short all chance for blunder. All prowess displayed by the Royalists was equally matched by their opponents as the lead was only widened giving no opportunity for other throughout the quarter. It came to an end at 4(RC) – 8(STC).

The final quarter kicked off with both teams displaying equal strength. Royal seemed to be making their come back as they raised the score to 6(RC) – 8(STC) in the first few minutes. However the Thomians once again cut short all chance with their quick recoil over the next 3 goals widening the lead in their favour to 6(RC) – 11(STC). Royal gave one final attempt which transformed into the last goal of the game ending the first leg at a score of 7(RC) – 11(STC).

The U 15 encounter also concluded prior to this game recording another high for the Thomians with 8(RC) – 10(STC).