Havelocks in smashing 42-16 win over Up Country Lions

by Ranjan ANANDAPPA

A power packed second half display by Havelocks SC helped them to defuse the threatening Up-Country Lions in no uncertain means to the tune of 42 points (three goals, three tries and two penalties) to 16 (two tries, two penalties) in a 'Dialog' league second round match at Havelock Park yesterday.

The initial half of play saw both teams playing almost in the same fashion, with the Up-Country lions having the better of exchanges despite the 'Havies' taking a 16-15 lead at the breather.

In the fourth minute of the match UCL's Srinath Sooriyabandara drew first blood for his side scoring an unconverted try. Havies struck back three minutes later when a judicious kick by Niroshan Fernando gave the opening for Mithun Hapugoda to touch down.

The winners extended their lead when Hakalo Williams put over a penalty. But the Up-Country Lions sprang into the lead when Tevitatau Fui touched down for Nigel Ratwatte to add the extra points.

After the turn over there was a complete transformation in the Havelocks style of play which they completely dominated.

They got their act together in double quick time as the entire team rallied round to drive the Up-Country team into submission. They scored three tries of which two were converted in quick succession and the winners soon reached the 30 point mark with the up-Country team remaining at the half time score of 16.

There after Havelocks SC went to put the issue beyond doubt by adding another two tries into the final tally. Lee Keegal, Mohammed Sherif (2) and Niro Tausia scored the tries for the winners.

Referee: Priyantha Gunaratne.