Gusty Sri Lanka beaten by last minute try

by Indika Welagedara

The Sri Lanka Under 20 team led by former St. Peter’s College captain cum speedy utility three quarter Kevin Dixon almost created history when they lost to Asian champions Japan by 19 points to 14 in their last group match of the day in the Asian Rugby Under 20 Sevens Series 1st Leg in Johar, Malaysia yesterday. The gallant Sri Lankan side was really unlucky to be deprived of a certain win in the Cup championship after leading 14-12 shortly before the final whistle. Sri Lanka opened scoring through ex-Kingswood captain and winger Reeza Rafaideen who touched down for a superb try.

They scored their second try in quick succession through former Peterite centre Nishon Perera who collected a brilliant off load from ex Isipathana captain Omalka Gunaratne and touched down under the post. Dixon and Nishon made the conversions and Sri Lanka shocked everyone by going into a 14-nil lead. Just before half time Japan scored a converted try and they went into half time trailing the Junior Tuskers by 7-14.

After the turn around Japan scored an unconverted try to cut the lead down to 12-14. In the very last move of the day they scored a try under the post which was converted to snatch a 19-14 hard fought victory from the jaws of defeat. Earlier in the day in their first match Sri Lanka thrashed Philippines by 22 points to 5. The Tusker’s tries were scored by Rafaideen (two), Nishon Perera (one) and scrum half Kevin Dixon.