Havelock SC Marches to Final with Thrilling 37-27 Victory over CH and FC in Clifford Cup Semi-Final
In a gripping showdown at the Racecourse grounds in Colombo, Havelock Sports Club emerged triumphant over CH and FC with a final score of 37-27, securing their coveted spot in the final of Sri Lanka's esteemed Nippon Paint Clifford Cup Knockout Rugby Tournament. The match, which kept spectators on the edge of their seats, saw Havelock SC leading 14-12 at halftime before clinching the win with an impressive display of skill and determination.
Highlighting their prowess on the field, Havelock SC secured their place in the final by notching up two goals, four tries, and one penalty, while CH and FC, under the leadership of Hirusha Nethmina, managed two goals, two tries, and one penalty. However, it was Jayathu Rajaratne from Havelock SC who stole the spotlight with a stellar performance, securing a hat-trick through a combination of remarkable attacking and defensive maneuvers.
The thrilling encounter commenced with Jayathu Rajaratne's sensational try in the third minute, beautifully assisted by Sandesh Jayawickrama, followed by a flawless conversion by Janith Chandimal, propelling Havelock SC to an early 7-0 lead. However, CH and FC swiftly retaliated, with Dushmantha Priyadarshana narrowing the gap with a try in the 14th minute.
The seesaw battle continued as Maliksha Perera of CH and FC showcased his agility, breezing through Havelock SC's defense to score in the 18th minute, propelling CH and FC into the lead for the first time at 12-7 by the end of the first quarter. Nevertheless, Havelock SC fought back fiercely, with Jayathu Rajaratne securing his second try just before halftime, nudging his team ahead 14-12.
After the break, CH and FC regained momentum with Hirusha Nethmina's precise penalty kick, reclaiming the lead at 15-14. The intensity escalated as Gayan Jayamanne extended CH and FC's lead with a try in the 49th minute, followed by a successful conversion by Nethmina. However, Havelock SC refused to relent, narrowing the gap with Samuel Maduwantha's penalty kick in the 52nd minute.
As the match entered its decisive phase, Randitha Warnapura's try in the 57th minute leveled the score at 22-all, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish. With tensions running high, CH and FC's Thanuja Maduranga was sent to the sin bin in the 63rd minute, adding to the drama on the field.
In an Electrifying Finish: Havelock SC Seals Victory with 37-27 Triumph over CH and FC
The exhilarating clash between Havelock Sports Club and CH and FC reached a crescendo as Randitha Warnapura's remarkable run in the 63rd minute, coupled with Samuel Maduwantha's conversion miss, propelled Havelock SC into a thrilling 27-22 lead. As the tension mounted, Shehan Dias entered the fray for CH and FC, replacing Prasad Madushanka, injecting fresh energy into the closing moments of the match.
Amidst the palpable excitement, Soorya Dodangoda received a Yellow Card in the final 10 minutes, adding an extra layer of drama to the intense showdown. CH and FC refused to go down without a fight, with Gimhana Silva's try in the 71st minute leveling the score at 27-all, setting the stage for a nail-biting finale.
However, in a moment of sheer brilliance, Jayathu Rajaratna of Havelock SC seized the opportunity with a sensational try off a bouncing ball in the mid-right, propelling Havies back into the lead at 32-27 in the 74th minute, much to the delight of the roaring crowd. The enthralling spectacle reached its climax when Chathura Dilshan sealed the deal with a try in the left corner flag for Havelock SC, securing a resounding 37-27 victory.
With Referee Suranga Aruna Shantha signaling the end of this captivating match, Havelock SC emerged triumphant, leaving spectators spellbound with an unforgettable display of skill and determination on the rugby field.
In conclusion, the clash between Havelock Sports Club and CH and FC stands as a testament to the relentless spirit and unwavering determination of both teams. With moments of sheer brilliance, dramatic twists, and heart-stopping action, this match will be etched into the annals of rugby history as a true spectacle of the sport. As Havelock SC emerges victorious with a commanding 37-27 win, their journey to the final of the Clifford Cup is marked by resilience, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Yet, amidst the triumphs and defeats, it is the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie that prevails, reminding us all of the true essence of rugby and the unifying power of sport.