Thomians touch Hayman Trophy after long lapse

by Ranjan ANANDAPPA

WATER POLO: S. Thomas' regained the Dr. R.L. Hayman Challenge Trophy after a lapse of five years when they beat traditional rivals Royal in the 19th Annual Royal-Thomian Water Polo encounter by virtue of their solitary point in the first 'leg' at the Police Sports Complex Swimming Pool yesterday.

The Thomians beat Royal 7/6 in the first 'leg' and the second 'leg' which was played yesterday ended in 1/1 draw.

The Thomians opened scoring in the first eight minutes of the match through Chandana Perera. Royal equalised in the second eight minutes of play through S. Lakshitha.

The goal keepers of either side Dharshana Kuruppu (Royal) and A. de Alwis (STC) stood between the fortune of the two sides bringing off some spectacular saves.

The Thomians opted for the long pass and was successful scoring their only goal while, Royal's strategic play gave them their solitary goal.

At half time the scores were 1-1.

Choo Chin Cheng and Lau Wang from Singapore refereed.