Joes edge out Antonians in 23-20 thriller

Saturday, 13 June 2026 04:40 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Joes’ Adriyano Candappa about to pass the ball - Photo by Sameera Wijesinghe

St. Joseph’s College held their nerve to snatch a thrilling 23-20 victory over St. Anthony’s College in their Dialog Schools Under-19 Rugby League Plate Segment encounter played under wet and slippery conditions at Longden Place yesterday.

The visitors from Katugastota dominated much of the opening half through their powerful forward play, controlling possession and territory while forcing the Josephians onto the defensive. Although Joes enjoyed periods of attacking possession, they were unable to convert pressure into points as handling errors and the difficult conditions took their toll.

St. Anthony’s deservedly carried a 13-5 advantage into half-time after producing the more composed rugby during the opening 35 minutes.

The home side returned with renewed purpose after the break and gradually wrested control of the contest. Their forwards laid a solid platform while the backs capitalised on the improved ball, allowing Joes to score 18 second-half points. The Antonians responded with just one converted try, setting up a tense finish.

With the scores locked at 20-all in the closing stages, fly-half Adriyano Candappa kept his composure to slot over the decisive penalty and seal a hard-fought three-point victory for the Joes. Joes crossed the line through Sathira Gunathilake, who scored twice, while Akshan Rashmida added another try. Candappa also contributed the match-winning penalty to cap an impressive second-half comeback.

St. Anthony’s replied through a brace of tries by Lakwin Manthilake and another by Benuru Vithanage. Daham Perera added a conversion and a penalty to keep the visitors in front for long periods before they were denied in the dying moments.

Referee Jeewaka Fonseka controlled the game.

The victory sees St. Joseph’s remain at the top of the Plate Segment standings with 18 points, while St. Anthony’s continue to occupy fifth place among the six competing teams despite another spirited performance. (SJ)