Clash of the titans

CH and FC’s Fijian centre powers through the defence in this file photo at their match against Kandy SC whom they held to a draw (SLR) 

By Shamseer Jaleel 

Unbeaten CH and FC will face their sternest test of the inter-club rugby League when they confront Havelock Sports Club in a highly anticipated clash at Havelock Park today.

With both sides harbouring championship ambitions, the encounter is expected to be a defining moment in the race for League honours with kick off scheduled for 3.45 p.m.

CH and FC have enjoyed an impressive campaign so far, remaining unbeaten after comprehensive victories over Police (29–5), Navy (44–14), Army (43–25) and traditional rival CR (34–32) while also sharing the spoils in a disputed 24–24 draw against defending champions Kandy SC. Their consistency and attacking efficiency have marked them as one of the teams of the tournament.

They possess one of the most powerful centres in Fijian Koli Thamarikalu that Havelocks will have to worry about most as CH will be determined to keep their unbeaten record intact along with the defending champs Kandy SC.

Havelocks have had a mixed but competitive run. They opened their season with a 31–31 draw against Navy SC, followed by victories over Sri Lions (42–11), Air Force (20–5) and Army (41–12), before suffering a 33–14 defeat at the hands of CR. That loss ended their unbeaten streak but has done little to diminish their status as serious contenders. Head coach Saliya Kumara is no pushover and a sound reader of the game who will be aiming for a comeback into contention.

Despite losing regular skipper Sandesh Jayawickrema, Havelocks have a capable leadership in Janidu Fernando and boast of match-winners like Azmir Fajudeen, Jayathu Rajaratne and Mohamed Rifan who are capable of turning the tide.

With two explosive Fijians and players like Maliksha Perera and Mohamed Absal, CH may hold a slight edge on form. But a resurgent Havelocks outfit could well turn this into a classic encounter.