Havies blow up Air Force, remain unbeaten

Air Force centre and overseas player Afa Vaovasa is held in a tackle

By Shamseer Jaleel

Havelocks continued their unbeaten run in the inter-club rugby League with a victory over Air Force SC by 20 points (3 tries, 1 conversion,1 penalty) to 5 points (1 try) at Havelock Park last evening.

Playing on familiar turf, the Park Club dominated the opening exchanges and showed their cohesion and structure early on. Their forwards laid a solid platform with strong ball retention while the backs capitalised on space to stretch the Air Force defence during the first half. Both Avdullah Faiz and Dilshara Kodagoda were outstanding both in defence as well in attack.

Air Force SC regrouped well after the break and showed greater intent in the second half and while the contest became more closely fought, both teams managed one try each in the latter stages. Air Force’s improved defensive approach and willingness to contest possession made the second half a more competitive affair, preventing Havies from pulling further away on the scoreboard.

Despite the tighter contest after halftime, Havelocks managed the game smartly, maintaining discipline and territorial advantage to seal the win and continue their winning streak having played three games so far.

Havies scored through Yehan Bulathsinhala, Janidu Fernando and Dilshara Kodagoda. Samuel Maduwantha converted one try and a solitary penalty for the Park Club.

Air Force SC’s try was scored by Shamika Kaushan.