Air Force triumph over Army to secure Cup berth after 13-year wait

Monday, 10 February 2025 02:43 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Air Force centre Kalana Chamuditha hands off Sudaraka Dikkumbura of Army

In a fiercely contested battle at the Army Ground in Panagoda, Sri Lanka Air Force SC soared past Sri Lanka Army SC with a 29/19 victory, securing a coveted spot in the Cup segment of the Inter-Club Championship: Super Round for the first time in 13 years.

At the short breather, winners led 15/12.

The match was a high-intensity clash, with both teams displaying exceptional skills and determination. Air Force took an early lead, thanks to a brace of tries from Shamika Kaushan, along with touchdowns by Nirmal Wickramasinghe and Darshana Dabare. Fly-half Pramod Pathmasanka and Gayantha Iddamalgoda contributed with conversions, while Pathmasanka added a crucial penalty to widen the gap.

Army SC fought valiantly, responding with tries from Buddi Sreemantha, Chalika Sandaruwan, and Manoj Kumara. Isuru Madagedara converted twice, keeping Army within reach, but it was not enough to overturn Air Force’s dominance.

Despite Army’s aggressive play and home advantage, Air Force’s well-structured attack and disciplined defence proved decisive. Their backline executed swift counter-attacks, while the forwards ensured control at crucial breakdowns.

With this victory, Air Force SC not only avenge previous losses but also mark a historic moment, qualifying for the Cup segment after over a decade. Their resurgence signals a promising future, with the team now eyeing further success in the championship. Army SC was very unfortunate to feature in the Plate segment, when they could not turn about two games in the league in their favour.

Referee Ishanka Abeykoon controlled the game very well.