Colombo, Sri Lanka – Isipathana College kicked off their Dialog Schools Rugby League campaign in commanding fashion with a 34-19 win over Mahanama College at Havelock Park yesterday. The encounter saw a thrilling first half, followed by a powerful late burst from the Pathanas that proved too much for the spirited Mahanama outfit.
Returning to the top-tier Division One after 16 years, Mahanama impressed with their gritty performance and even held the lead briefly in the second half. However, Isipathana’s experience and superior fitness told in the latter stages, helping them pull away for a comfortable win.
Early Dominance by Isipathana
Isipathana made a flying start, scoring two tries within the first seven minutes. Scrum-half Sithupa Bometh opened the scoring in the 2nd minute, followed by a try from hooker Damsara Witharana in the 7th. Both conversions were neatly slotted in by fly-half Thenula de Costa, giving Isipathana a 14-0 lead.
Mahanama Fight Back
Mahanama, undeterred, clawed their way back into the game. Winger Nevith Kannagara crossed the line in the 19th minute, with Sithum Ratnayake converting to make it 14-7. Another try in the 24th minute brought them within two points at halftime, despite a missed conversion.
Second-Half Drama
Mahanama struck early in the second half with a brilliant 40-metre solo try from Mandilu Nemsara, converted by Ratnayake to give them a 19-14 lead. But their hopes were dashed by handling errors and Isipathana’s resurgence.
A penalty by de Costa in the 14th minute narrowed the gap to 19-17. Then, Isipathana launched a furious offensive, scoring two quick tries via Nevith Mevanka and skipper Themithra Dodangama in the 21st and 22nd minutes, respectively, swinging the score to 27-19.
Closing Out in Style
Mahanama’s resistance faded as Isipathana asserted their dominance. Irosh Jayasinghe scored the final try just before full time, with de Costa converting to seal the match at 34-19.
Scoring Summary – Isipathana:
- Tries: Sithupa Bometh, Damsara Witharana, Nevith Mevanka, Themithra Dodangama, Irosh Jayasinghe
- Conversions: Thenula de Costa (3)
- Penalty: Thenula de Costa
Scoring Summary – Mahanama:
- Tries: Nevith Kannagara, Mandilu Nemsara
- Conversions: Sithum Ratnayake (2)
Despite the loss, Mahanama’s performance signals promise for the rest of the season, while Isipathana’s clinical finish sends a strong message to their rivals.
