CR edge Havies to reach Clifford Cup final

CR and FC No. 8 Omalka Gunaratne on a powerful move

By Shamseer Jaleel

CR and FC prevailed in a tense Clifford Cup 2025 semi-final encounter when they edged out Havelock Sports Club by 25 points (3 tries, 2 conversions, 2 penalties) to 24 points (3 tries, 3 conversions, 1 penalty) at Havelock Park last evening. At the short whistle CR and FC led 15-10.

With this win CR earned their place in the final against Kandy SC on April 6. In a game that went down to the wire, CR managed to hold on to their slender one-point lead, despite a valiant second half fightback from the Havies.

The game began with CR fullback Mursheed Doray slotting an early penalty, putting the Reds on the scoreboard. As the contest progressed, CR capitalised on their attacking momentum, with Omalka Gunaratne powering over the line for the first try in the 31st minute of the initial half. Doray successfully added the conversion, extending their lead to 10-0.

Havelock SC responded swiftly through a Sandesh Jayawickrema penalty, reducing the deficit. They soon levelled the score when Udara Lakshan crossed the whitewash, with Sandesh converting to make it 10-10. 

However, just before the break, Omalka, who played a grand game once again showed his strength and determination, bulldozing his way over the try line for his second of the evening. CR went into half time with a narrow 15-10 lead.

After the turnaround CR continued to push forward, with Chamod Muthunayake adding another try to the Longden Place Club tally. Doray, who had earlier missed two penalty attempts, both hitting the uprights of the post, managed to convert one of the tries, and slot a crucial penalty, pushing CR’s advantage further. 

The Longden Place club looked to be in control at this stage, maintaining their lead with a 22-10 lead as the clock started ticking down.

Havies getting experienced players such as Mohamed Rifan, Mursheed Falwell and Chatura Dilshan in the last 20 minutes of the game made a world of difference with the Park Club making a strong comeback into the game.

Havelock SC, known for their resilience, were far from done. Chatura Dilshan led their second-half charge, crossing the try line twice to bring them back into contention. 

Sandesh Jayawickrema held his nerve, successfully converting both tries, bringing Havies within striking distance of an incredible comeback victory.

With the game hanging in the balance, CR displayed remarkable defensive grit to deny Havelocks any further scoring opportunities. Their ability to withstand intense pressure in the final minutes proved decisive, as they clung onto their slender one-point advantage until the final whistle.

CR will travel one last time this season to Central Hills to meet the defending League champions, Kandy Sports Club in the final of the Clifford Cup on April 6 at the Nittawela Rugby Stadium.

Referee: Raveen Alexander