Havies in hard-fought win over Police

Saturday, 24 January 2026 05:27 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Havies flanker Udesh Madushanka held by two Police players - Pic by Sameera Wijesinghe

By Shamseer Jaleel

Havelock Sports Club pulled off a hard-fought 29–17 victory over Police Sports Club in their Inter-Club Rugby League first-round encounter concluded at Police Park last evening, securing a vital berth in the Cup segment of the Super Round.

Despite pre-match expectations favouring a comfortable Havies win, Police produced a spirited display before eventually yielding to sustained second-half pressure. Police will now feature in the Plate segment.

The home side stunned the visitors with an energetic first-half performance, showing urgency and purpose in both attack and defence. Capitalising on early opportunities, Police took a deserved 17–12 lead at the short breather, leaving Havies searching for answers after being repeatedly tested in open play.

The complexion of the game changed dramatically after the interval as Havies tightened their structures and asserted dominance through their forward pack. Control at the breakdown and greater efficiency in contact situations allowed the Park Club to build sustained pressure and gradually wear down the Police defence.

The relentless work rate of the Havies forwards proved decisive, consistently winning collisions and generating quick ball. This platform enabled Havies to convert territory into points during a commanding second-half spell. Several forwards were influential throughout, though occasional lapses in ball security prevented an even wider margin. Their forwards were top class with Abdullah Faiz, Azmir Fajudeen and Chatura Dilshan.

Despite the victory, Havies will be concerned by an off-night with the boot, missing multiple straightforward chances at goal that denied them at least ten additional points reliable Samuel Maduwantha.

Police can take heart from a courageous showing, particularly in the first half, where their attacking intent and defensive commitment troubled Havies. However, an inability to finish promising movements ultimately proved costly. Their Fijian, KaliovaMocetadra was outstanding both in defence as well in attack. He split the Havies defence all over the Park with his powerful play.

Havies scored tries through Harusha Perera, Udara Lakshan, Azmir Fajudeen, Abdullah Faiz and Sachintha Waidyanatha, with two conversions added by Samuel Maduwantha. Police replied with two tries by fijian, Kaliova Mocetadra and additional points from the boot through Prince Chamara.

Referee Jeewaka Fonseka controlled the game.

With this result, CR and FC, Kandy SC, CH and FC and Havelock SC qualify for the Cup segment, while Air Force, Police, Army and either Navy or Sri Lions will contest the Plate segment in Round Two.