Kandy run riot in latter half to beat Police

Monday, 15 December 2025 00:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Kandy SC winger Dinal Ekanayake on a powerful move

By Shamseer Jaleel

Unbeaten League champions Kandy SC produced a powerful second-half burst to overwhelm Police SC 49/17 in their Inter-Club Rugby League encounter at the Nittawela Rugby Stadium last evening.

Kandy transformed a tense contest into a commanding nine-try triumph. Trailing 10/17 at the interval, the champions showed their pedigree after the turnaround with a display of pace, precision, and cohesion.

Police SC stunned the hosts in the opening half, capitalising on Kandy’s sluggish start and limited possession. Although Kandy struck early through Dinal Ekanayake and Diluksha Dange, both unconverted, the visitors responded with composure and physicality. Prince Chamara’s penalty, followed by well-executed forward tries from Danushka Edirisuriya and Ashan Darling, both converted and gave Police a deserved halftime advantage.

The second half, however, belonged entirely to Kandy. With improved accuracy at the breakdown and quicker recycling, the forwards laid a solid platform, allowing the three-quarters to unleash their full attacking threat. Dahan Wickramarachchi sparked the surge, before Ekanayake and Dilshan Fareed cut through with incisive running. Kenula Hettiarachchi and Kavindu Perera, who crossed twice, added further polish as Police struggled to contain the onslaught.

Kandy’s three-quarters were clinical and ruthless once momentum swung, while the forwards, much improved after the break, showed cohesion and control to dominate territory and possession. It was a reminder of the champions’ depth and adaptability when their systems click.

Yet, despite the emphatic scoreline, warning signs remain. A poor first-half display and continued inconsistency from the tee underline areas for concern, especially with stronger opponents looming.

Referee was Kelum Sandaruwan.