Unbeaten Peterites savour rugby glory

The man of the final Peterite Sudesh Jayawickrema receiving the Dialog Schools Rugby
Knock-out Championship trophy

Rugby enthusiasts in Sri Lanka were treated to a thrilling display of rugby as St. Peter’s College, the Dialog League Champions, emerged victorious in the Dialog Schools Rugby Knock-out Championship, securing the prestigious President’s Trophy. In an absorbing final held at the rain-soaked Sugathadasa Stadium, St. Peter’s College secured a commanding 25-16 victory over the reigning champions, Isipathana College, marking their first Double Championship in 13 years.

St. Peter’s College’s last Double Championship achievement of this magnitude dates back to 2010 when Keith Gurusinghe led the team to glory. Their journey to victory was further highlighted by consecutive triumphs in the Knock-out Tournaments of 2018 and 2019, where they defeated arch-rivals St. Joseph’s College and Wesley College respectively in the final.

The stage was set for an epic showdown between two rugby powerhouses. Naveen Kanishka-led Isipathana College, affectionately known as the “Green Machines” aiming to extend their reign. and the Peterites under the leadership of Ashain Madugaspe and guided by astute coach Sanath Martis,who had established themselves as formidable contenders, boasting an impeccable season record.

Isipathana College’s unyielding defence exerted immense pressure on their opponents, thwarting attempts to score tries. However, St. Peter’s College seized crucial opportunities during the final. Their forwards strategically gained territory before executing precise passes, allowing Player of the final and former captain Sudesh Jayawickrama to breach the Isipathana defence and score a fine try under the posts. Yumeth Shihara, acclaimed for his exceptional kicking skills throughout the season, added crucial extra points, propelling St. Peter’s College to a commanding 19-8 lead at half time.

The second half of the final unfolded amidst a torrential downpour, presenting additional challenges for both teams. Isipathana College relentlessly pressed on the scoreboard, while St. Peter’s College briefly found themselves reduced to 14 men when Aiden Fernando received a Yellow Card from Referee Raveen Alexander approximately 20 minutes before the final whistle. Subsequently, Peterite skipper Ashain Maligaspe also was sin-binned , leaving his team with just 13 men for the decisive closing moments.

The match was officiated by Referee Raveen Alexander, with support from TMO Anil Jayasinghe. Their management of this high-stakes encounter earned him a well-deserved round of applause from the spectators. Their competence added an additional layer of credibility to the game, particularly following a turbulent period in Sri Lankan rugby.

The champion Peterite team celebrating with the Dialog knock out trophy

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