Antonians secure first win this season; beat Science

Monday, 7 July 2025 02:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Katugastota Antonians notched their first win of the Schools Under-19 Rugby League with a thrilling 28/24 victory over Science College at Mount Lavinia yesterday.

By halftime, the Antonians held a slender 14/7 advantage, having dominated the early exchanges with powerful carries and solid set-piece play.

The Antonians scored their first-half tries through Kalpa Lakmina and Mohamed Thanish. Both were converted by Kalpa Lakmina, who had a grand game. Science scored their first try through skipper and fly-half Dilruwan Perera, who added the extra two points.

Soon after the short breather, the Antonians increased their lead through another try which was scored by number 8 Ravindu Gregory and converted by Lakmina.

Science College struck back immediately, scoring two quick, well-taken tries, both expertly converted to come on dual terms. Their second-half tries were scored by Damith Silva and Niluka Dabare. Dilruwan converted both and also put over a penalty to take the lead.

But the lead was short lived as the Antonians went over the whitewash for their bonus point try through Dinuka Jayasundera. Lakmina added the extra two points. Though the Antonians won, their decision-making was in question – not opting for two easy, kickable penalties in the latter half.

Antonians player Mohamed Thanish was rushed to the General Hospital with a head injury during the latter half.

The Referee was Gihan Yatawara.

Both the Antonians and Science now progress to the Bowl segment when Round 2 kicks off on 18 July, carrying lessons and confidence into the next phase of the tournament.