Science apologises

Friday, 17 May 2013 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

It was indeed a refreshing change to read in the local press that Science College had taken strict action against a player, as well as that of a member of the coaching staff. This without doubt is a step in the right direction.

The matter relates to off the field events that took place after the game against the Peterites. This is an eye opener for all other schools as well, that hooliganisms and thuggery is something that must not be tolerated although it is quite rampant in a number of instances. It takes guts for someone to admit that they were wrong and also to take corrective action, and in doing so, Science have set bar at a high level that others may struggle to emulate. Well done Science.

At the end of week six, Trinity College held on to their top position with Dharmaraja, being a whisker away in second place. The Peterites by virtue of their controversial win against Science regain the third slot. Wesley who promised much in the earlier games, have gone off the boil and have come our second best in the last few encounters. Royal has moved up a notch and occupy the fifth slot, with a win against the Joes. Last year’s league champs are at the bottom of the heap and if they continue in this vein, it will be time for relegation, a prospect that should stir them up to perform better, unless they have set their sights on winning tier two, next year.

After last week’s game, the referees association had taken a view that they will no longer be available to officiate in games involving Science College. As reported in the press, an apology has been submitted to the referees association and at this point in time, it is not clear as whether the referees will accept the apology and move forward. If the referees are to stay away, rugby will definitely be the loser. With more sponsorships required to keep the game afloat, any unsavoury incidents will only provide sponsors the opportunity to shy away from putting their money on the table. It is thus important for all concerned to meet and discuss the way forward.

There are few key games this weekend, Table leaders Trinity will take on the Joes. I cannot see any upset in this game. Royal will take on the bottom of the table Pathana, who have been having an awful season. On their day they are devastating depending on which team turns up. A mouth watering battle will take place when giant killers Wesley take on Science, who were very unlucky, to lose to the Peterites last week. Science on their home turf is a tough proposition. In the hills, Kingswood will host the Peterites and if the Pete’s play as they did last week, a loss cannot be ruled out. High flying Dharmaraja will take on SACK and the Rajans should have this game wrapped up with no major hassles.

As the date of the Lions tour looms close, British and Irish Lions captain Sam Warburton has welcomed the battle he faces to earn a place in the side that will tackle Australia next month. Warburton was handed the honour of leading the 37-man squad Down Under last month, but it came with no guarantee when it comes to selection. The Wales skipper is not fazed by the challenge and insists it will bring out the best in him. It remains to be seen as whether he will crack under pressure or whether he will be able to give a good account of himself.

(The writer can be reached via [email protected].)