Last chance for Havelocks to keep alive Cup hopes

By SHAMSEER JALEEL

Havelock SC will take on Air Force in a crucial match as they fight to keep their fading Cup segment hopes alive. Having suffered a setback against CR & FC last weekend which was a shortened game due to heavy rain, Havies now find themselves on the back foot, needing a decisive victory to stay in the title race. This encounter will be worked off at Havelock Park with kick-off at 4.00 pm.

For over a decade Havelock SC has been chasing league glory, but inconsistency at crucial moments has cost them dearly. Their loss to CR was a major blow, exposing vulnerabilities in both attack and defence. However, with a strong pack and experienced backs, the Havies have the firepower to bounce back.

Led by Abdullah Faiz they are a very well balanced side with players such as Azmir Fajudeen, Jayathu Rajarathna and Samuel Maduwantha being top class this season. Their Head Coach Saliya Kumara, will need nothing less than a bonus point win and await a big clash against Kandy SC at Nittawela in front of his own home crowd where he grew up and played his rugby.

Air Force, on the other hand, will be looking to capitalise on their opponent’s desperation. While not among the top contenders, they have the ability to disrupt Havelock’s game plan with their physicality and counter-attacking rugby. Air Force did extremely well to come in to Cup segment after 13 years. Air Force are led by Ramesh Wasantha with players such as Gayantha Iddamalagoda, Darshana Dabare and Shahika Fernando being outstanding for them this season.

Their Head Coach Asela Deshapriya has done yeoman service for the forces outfit. Unfortunately the competition is such high standard they find it tough but are likely to end on number 4 at the end of the season. For the Havies, there is no room for error. A win would keep their Cup aspirations alive, while a loss would all but end their title hopes for yet another season. Expect a fiercely contested battle as they look to reignite their championship dream and avoid another year of disappointment.

Havies in their nine games have collected 43 points against the Air Force outfit collecting 29 points from the same number of matches. Referee: Kelum Sandaruwan