Air Force stun CH, storm into semi-finals

Air Force overseas player Lepani Thivanuavou makes a break against the CH defence (Pic: Pradeep Dilrukshana)

By Shamseer Jaleel

In a thrilling quarter-final encounter of the Clifford Cup Knockout Rugby Tournament, Air Force Sports Club produced a stunning performance to defeat CH and FC by 34 points (6 tries, 2 conversions) to 28 points (4 tries, 4 conversions) at the Royal Sports Complex last evening.

Fresh from their Plate Championship triumph, Air Force carried their momentum into the Cup competition and delivered one of the biggest upsets of the quarter-final stage by overcoming the fourth-placed league side in a high-tempo contest.

The game was played at a hectic pace with both teams opting for fast, open rugby. At half time, Air Force held a narrow 22/21 lead after an entertaining first half where momentum constantly shifted between the two sides.

CH drew first blood in the third minute when Lahiru Thilakaratne crossed the line, with Janith Chandimal adding the conversion. Air Force responded soon after as Shamika Kaushan powered his way over for their opening try.

CH struck again through their overseas player Petro Missaele with Chandimal once again adding the extras to keep the hosts ahead. However, Air Force stayed within striking distance and continued to pressure the CH defence though Kaluarachchi.

One of the highlights of the half came through the individual brilliance of Gayantha Iddamalgoda, who chased a clever kick ahead and grounded the ball to score. 

CH skipper Janidu Dilshan then produced a superb effort, sprinting over 40 metres to score in the right corner, with Chandimal converting. Yet Air Force responded immediately with two quick tries from Ishara Madushan and Iddamalgoda, one of which was successfully converted by Iddamalgoda.

After the turnaround, CH briefly regained the lead when Chandimal crossed over and converted his own try, putting his side ahead by a single point in another dramatic shift.

But Air Force showed great determination and refused to back down. Their forwards and backs combined effectively, maintaining pressure deep inside CH territory as the match moved into its decisive phase.

The decisive moment arrived when Shamika Kaushan powered over for his second try of the game. Iddamalgoda added the conversion to seal a memorable victory and book Air Force a well-earned place in the semi-finals. The match was officiated by Kenyan referee Lorence Kiunga who kept firm control allowing a competitive encounter to move on.